We’ve tried to answer some of the most common questions about the Emerging Journalists Program here. Need more information? Email Kelly Furnas, curriculum coordinator, at kfurnas@elon.edu.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why host the Emerging Journalists Program at Elon?

Elon’s School of Communications envisioned the program as a way to inspire high school students to pursue a career in journalism. An initial three-year grant from the Scripps Howard Fund supported the program from 2021-2024 and continued our collective commitment to advance equity, diversity and inclusion in the communications industries.

Is the Emerging Journalists Program only for students of color?

The virtual Exposure experience is open to anyone high school age or above who wishes to apply.

Students who are juniors in high school may simultaneously apply for the on-campus Immersion experience. The Immersion experience is specifically for students of diverse socio-economic, racial and ethnic backgrounds.

Can international students apply to the Emerging Journalists Program?

We welcome international participants for the Exposure experience. Unfortunately because of limited funds we are unable to accommodate travel expenses for international students to take part in the on-campus Immersion experience.

What is involved with the Exposure assessments?

Each session in the Exposure experience will have a very short activity you need to complete to showcase your proficiency in that area. These assessments will not be overly time consuming — you’ll be able to complete each one in less than a half an hour. But they will require that you paid attention and engaged in the instructional session.

What equipment do I need for the Exposure experience?

You will need a device with an Internet connection that can handle downloading video.

Some assessments might require that you are able to submit a piece of writing or a photograph or a video. A phone camera should suffice.

What equipment do I need for the Immersion experience?

Elon University will supply all of the curricular equipment — computers, software, cameras, etc. — that you need to take part in the on-campus Immersion experience. We do ask that all participants bring a mobile phone to the workshop simply for communication purposes.

Students who complete the Immersion experience earn Elon academic credit. Do I have to plan to attend Elon University to take part in the Emerging Journalists Program?

Not at all. The goal of this program is to encourage you to consider a collegiate and professional career in journalism, whether that’s at Elon University or any other communications program.

We want to recognize the rigorous practicum experience of the Emerging Journalists Program, and so EJP graduates will automatically earn four hours of credit in COM3800 Media Workshop.

How can I learn more about Elon University?

You can learn more about communications majors and curriculum on the School of Communications’ website. The Office of Admissions has information about applications, in-person and virtual events, as well as financial aid resources.