BASIC INFO

Affiliation

Boston University

Location

Boston, MA

Mode

Online

Brief description

This program presents a hands-on experience for high school students interested in journalism, writing or photography. The two-week online program is designed for high school students attending grades 9, 10, 11 or 12 in the fall of 2024, as well as students who graduate this spring. Previous experience in journalism is useful but not required.

Full description

Boston University's Summer Journalism Academy offers high school students a chance to enhance their journalism skills and get a taste of college life, either by staying on campus or learning remotely from home. Taught by professional journalists, the program provides real-world insights and hands-on experience. Every lesson connects directly to practical application, as students take on real reporting assignments and experience the daily life of a news reporter. Each day begins with a collegiate-style lesson on journalism fundamentals, using a university-level textbook for readings and assignments. Instructors cover key topics such as developing story ideas, conducting research and interviews, writing for different media formats, ensuring accuracy, and understanding ethics and libel laws. The newsroom session provides hands-on reporting experience, where students, guided by a professional journalist acting as their editor, pitch, research, write, and edit stories. Over the two-week program, students produce three to four original articles for their portfolios, which are also published on The Terrier, the academy’s news website. Guest Talks feature industry professionals who share insights on specialized topics like radio journalism, media law, and studying journalism in college. Each session includes three to four expert-led discussions.

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