Kirkwood Community College

Internships > Journalist Intern

Journalist Intern

Journalist Intern

Overview:
This internship introduces high school students to the field of journalism and media. Interns will observe and assist journalists as they research, write, and report news stories for print, online, or broadcast outlets. The experience provides insight into reporting, writing, interviewing, and the role of journalism in informing the public.

Key Responsibilities:

·         Shadow journalists during interviews, research, and newsroom activities

·         Assist with support tasks such as fact-checking, organizing notes, or drafting short articles under supervision

·         Observe how journalists gather information, write stories, and meet deadlines

·         Learn about ethical reporting, editing, and publishing processes

·         Gain exposure to professional communication, research, and collaboration in a media environment

   ·         Completing assignments, reflection journals, or internship workbook entries as required by the program

Learning Outcomes:

·         Understand the role of a journalist in reporting accurate, timely, and ethical news

·         Learn basic skills in interviewing, writing, editing, and research

·         Gain awareness of professionalism, deadlines, and ethics in journalism

·         Develop observation, writing, and critical thinking skills

·         Explore career and educational pathways in journalism, communications, or media studies

Preferred Skills/Interests:

·         Interest in writing, current events, or media

·         Strong communication and critical thinking skills

·         Curiosity, creativity, and willingness to learn

·         Professionalism, reliability, and attention to detail

Additional Information:

·         Interns will primarily observe and assist with beginner-level writing and research tasks; they will not publish independently without review

·         Compliance with workplace policies, confidentiality, and journalistic ethics is required

·         Some placements may involve attending events or interviews outside of regular hours

Notice on Internship Opportunities

Please note that internship opportunities will vary by host site and county.

·         Not all career areas or placements will be available in every location.

·         Host sites may have different requirements, schedules, responsibilities.

·         Opportunities depend on local partnerships, availability, and community resources.

Students are encouraged to remain flexible and open to a variety of learning experiences. Each internship is designed to provide valuable workplace skills, career exploration, and professional growth - regardless of the specific placement.

 

THIS DESCRIPTION DOES NOT LIST ALL DUTIES. INTERN MAY BE ASKED TO PERFORM OTHER DUTIES BY THE STAFF OR SUPERVISOR. INTERN WILL BE EVALUATED ON PERFORMANCE OF THE PROJECTS LISTED AS WELL AS INTERACTION WITH EMPLOYEES AND CLIENTS. ON-SITE HOURS WILL BE NEGOTIATED WITH EACH CANDIDATE.

SAFETY EXPECTATIONS, INCLUDING HARASSMENT, SHOULD BE REVIEWED WITH THE HOST.




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