New York Network / New York State Broadcaster's
Association
Media Internship Program
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is this a new internship?
It’s relatively new. We started in 2004. It’s definitely different, because you do not shadow reporters, you are the reporter. You shoot, write and edit authentic news stories at the State Capitol in Albany so you’ll have a resume tape and Real Experience when you interview for that first job.
2. Who is eligible for the internship?
Any junior, senior, or grad student at a New York State college or university is eligible. You DO NOT have to be a journalism or communications major, but the program’s benefits are a function of what the student can put into it. The more you know coming in, the more you can do, and the more you will take with you when you leave.
3. Why is it only available in the spring semester?
The “beat” interns cover is the annual session of the New York State Legislature and all that surrounds it. The session runs January thru June. (Interns are not required to stay beyond the end of their school year, but may do so if they choose.)
4. What is a typical day like?
Understanding there are few “typical” days in news, it usually begins with a brief editorial meeting, in which stories are discussed and assignments given. Interns then cover the selected stories in crews of two or three. Opportunities as a one-man band come later in the semester (or earlier if the intern is ready). Interns rotate daily as reporters and photographers. They return to the newsroom to write and edit. Uncompleted assignments are finished the next day, with the continual goal of turning same-day packages. During the course of the week, there is ample time for writing drills, newscast critiquing, and other individual skill development.
5. How are the interns selected?
Because of the logistics involved, we try to fill the positions as early as possible. Applications are reviewed as the arrive, and the most qualified candidates are selected until all positions are filled. So, it is wise to apply early.
6. Are stipends offered?
Stipends are not offered at present, but we hope to begin offering them as soon as possible.
7. Are there scholarships or financial aid available?
The Media Internship Program does not charge tuition, so scholarships and financial aid are not necessary. You pay your normal tuition to your home institution.
8. Do I get credit for the internship, and if so, how many credits?
Credit is awarded by, and the number of credits determined by, an intern’s home campus. The New York State Broadcasters Association and the New York Network do not offer credits. The Internship Director will certify to your home campus that you have completed the work necessary to earn the credits.
9. Do I have to be in Albany all the time, and where will I live?
The interns work a five-day, 40-hour week, so it is necessary that students from out of town colleges and universities live within commuting distance of downtown Albany. The City of Albany and its suburbs have plenty of apartments for students. The New York Network does not provide housing.
10. Am I guaranteed a job at the end of the internship?
No. There are no guarantees. However, this program is designed to provide job-ready employees to the member-stations of the State Broadcasters Association, so when entry level jobs exist, your resume will get looked at.
Students interested in the NYSBA/NYN Media Internship Program should contact James S. Brennan at the New York Network, 518-443-5333.
Program Overview
Mission
Syllabus
Student application