Updated November 27, 2023 at 11:52 AM ET
The 2024-25 Reflect America Fellowship will bring a tenacious journalist to NPR for 12 months to join our Climate Desk and report on vulnerable communities, particularly Indigenous communities.
We're looking for someone who stays on top of the news, is well-versed in a wide range of topics, and wants to learn and grow in one of the nation's most dynamic news organizations. In this fellowship, you will build skills in essential aspects of climate reporting, learn to understand and analyze climate science, and work on accountability and investigative stories. Along the way, you'll also learn to assess potential solutions to climate threats, including those that underserved communities are exploring.
As a fellow, you'll expand your skills and portfolio, working and learning alongside journalists whose award-winning stories inform millions of people and provoke change. Read the FAQ below for more information.
Background
Why did you create the Reflect America Fellowship?
This fellowship is part of nearly a decade of work to increase the diversity of NPR's content. This fellowship's focus shifts in 2024 to concentrate on one of the world's most important beats.
What does the fellowship involve?
The fellow will embed with NPR's Climate Desk, where they'll pitch and report stories on one of the world's most important beats. Fellows will work and learn alongside journalists at NPR and member stations whose award-winning stories reach millions of listeners and readers.
Will I be on the air and get bylines on NPR.org?
Yes.
Do you have to be an American citizen to take part in the program?
No, but foreign nationals must have appropriate employment authorizations.
Who should apply?
Journalists with at least two years' experience (including internships and other fellowships) in any journalism medium. A full job description and application can be found here.
Application Details and Deadlines
What do I need in order to apply?
1. In lieu of a cover letter, each completed application must include answers to the following questions. These questions are designed to gauge how you think about reporting and about the journalism profession. Be specific and use your answers to set yourself apart:
- What are three climate stories happening right now in North America that NPR should focus on in 2024? Why are they important?
- What do you think are the most significant climate issues facing vulnerable communities in North America, particularly Indigenous communities?
- Besides major news outlets, what people, accounts and outlets do you follow to stay informed?
- Tell us about a time when you pitched a story that was rejected. What did you learn from that experience?
2. Upload five links of your best journalistic work.
3. Provide contact information for two people who can speak to your work ethic, journalistic skills and passion for inclusive coverage.
4. Upload your resume.
How do I apply?
Submit your application here.
When is the application deadline?
Applications close at 11:59 p.m. EST on Jan. 26, 2024.
Selection Process
How many Reflect America Fellows will be selected?
We will choose one Fellow.
Who chooses the Reflect America Fellow?
The Reflect America Fellowship Committee is made up of NPR journalists, including leaders of the Climate Desk and members of the NPR Training team.
What is the timeline for selecting the Reflect America Fellow?
- Nov. 27, 2023: Applications open
- Jan. 26, 2024: Applications close
- By Feb. 9, 2024: Three finalists are selected by the Fellowship Committee
- Feb. 10-Feb 23, 2024: Interviews
- By March 1, 2024: The selected Fellow is notified
- Sept. 3, 2024: The Fellowship begins
Is the Reflect America Fellowship paid?
Yes. The Fellow receives $75,000 a year, plus benefits, which include health insurance and paid vacation.
Is housing paid for?
No.
Will the fellowship be fully remote?
Fellows will have the choice of working remotely or on site. Initial training for the Fellow will take place at NPR headquarters in Washington, D.C.
After the Fellowship
What happens when the fellowship is over?
Though two of our fellows have landed reporting and producing positions, completion of the fellowship does not guarantee a job at NPR. We do all we can to help you make connections at NPR and at any of the more than 250 NPR Member stations around the country.
Still have questions?
Send additional questions to reflectamerica@npr.org during the application period (Nov. 27 through Jan. 26, 2024).
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