Journalism + Communications
Academic Internship Program Sponsored by The Fund for American Studies
Summer 2025: May 31 – July 26
Why Journalism + Communications?
You can practice journalism or communications anywhere, but spending a summer in the Nation’s Capital, covering issues of national and international importance is like no other experience.
This TFAS program track is ideal for students who are passionate about getting the story straight while, learning the ins and outs of the news or communications business. You will gain the professional experience needed to break into these competitive fields.
TFAS is committed to developing a new generation of journalists who will uphold the highest standards of integrity, accuracy and fairness.
That’s why we are awarding a minimum scholarship of $3,000 to applicants, with the opportunity for additional scholarships based on need and merit. To take advantage of the minimum scholarship award, applicants must fill out the scholarship tab of the online application.
What Makes this Program Track Unique?
- An internship placement in the field of journalism, communications or public relations (newspaper, magazine, radio, news service, corporate or nonprofit communications office, PR firm)
- Coursework in economics for journalists designed to complement your real-word experience
- Guest lectures featuring prominent reporters, editors and communications professionals
- Networking through career-focused panels and small group discussions led by professionals working for NPR, POLITICO, C-SPAN, National Geographic, Congressional communications directors and many more.
It’s much more than just coursework and an internship placement. The contacts you’ll make throughout the summer will be invaluable in finding that first job out of college.
The Comprehensive Package Includes
- Roommate matching with other program students based upon compatibility criteria.
- Easy access to the safe and affordable Metro train and bus system.
- Full access to campus resources, including libraries, computer labs and much more.
- Comprehensive orientation to the program, campus and the city upon your arrival.
- Dedicated program staff members who are available to communicate with you about your internship placement, financial aid and general questions in the months leading up to the program.
- Continued staff support while you are in Washington to ensure that you have an amazing experience. In addition to the full time, year-round program staff who will get to know you and help you throughout the summer, there will be alumni living in housing and serving as Program Advisors.
- Site briefings at institutions such as the Department of State, Capitol Hill, National Press Club and the White House.
- Professional development seminars on topics including job searching, public speaking and networking.
- A mentor program where you are matched with a DC professional working as a reporter, editor, or in communications/public relations.
- Planned social events where you can connect with almost 350 other student leaders participating in TFAS programs. These events may include: a trip to a Nationals baseball game, a student BBQ, volunteer projects, canoeing on the Potomac and a trip to Mt. Vernon.
- An active network of more than 19,000 alumni worldwide to join upon the completion of the program.
“I never could have imagined how pivotal my summer with TFAS would be. They want to give students the best experience they can provide, and they do so through internships and special events. The staff deeply care about the success of each student before, during and beyond – making it an experience like no other.”
Trenton Morgan Northeastern State University
Intern, Social Media Monthly Magazine
Sample Schedule
Students should plan to arrive on Saturday, May 31 and will be allowed to check into their on-campus apartments at between 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM. Orientation activities will be planned for that evening and during the next few days. Students will be required to move out of the apartments on Saturday, July 26 by 11:00 AM. Further details on arrival logistics, registration and orientation will be provided as the summer approaches.
This schedule is only meant to give an idea of the summer’s general structure. It is subject to change according to events and briefings. You will receive updated weekly calendars in class and by e-mail throughout the summer.
| 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM | Internships |
| 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM | Elective Courses (optional) |
| 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM | Internships |
| 5:00 PM – 6:30 PM | Economics Course |
| 7:15 PM – 8:30 PM | Guest Lectures |
| 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM | Internships |
| Self-paced Content – All Courses |
| 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM | Internships |
| 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM | Elective Courses (optional) |
| 9:00 AM – 10:30 AM | Economics Courses |
| 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM | Networking Events + Site Briefings |