Thursday, August 14, 2008

Welcome to the Journalism Program!

Our program offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of press and politics in the nation’s capital. We are happy to report that there has been a strong response from students like you representing colleges and universities around the world who are signing on to be part of this unique learning experience at the oldest and most comprehensive experiential journalism program in the United States.

The Washington Journalism Semester curriculum focuses on print and broadcast reporting and routinely attracts some of the most prominent names in the field. Among the media personalities who regularly participate in the program are Bob Schieffer from CBS, Sam Donaldson from ABC, legendary White House columnist Helen Thomas, former presidential press secretary Ari Fleischer and Washington Post editor Ben Bradlee, who steered his newspaper’s coverage of Watergate that pioneered the modern field of investigative journalism.

You will also meet the newest and hippest stars behind the ascent of ESPN, MTV and the finest political blogs. And that’s not all: Washington Journalism Students are routinely tapped to be part of the live audiences for both local broadcasts and CNN shows.

You will also sit in the Supreme Court of the United States and witness an oral argument before the Justices; tour the press quarters of the Pentagon and the White House; set sail on the Chesapeake Bay for a spectacular day of outdoor education, studying environmental journalism with experts from the Chesapeake Bay Foundation. You will create a newspaper of your own, The Tenley Times, and script and shoot a class film.

Participants in our program spend two days a week in professional journalism internships. In years past, students have worked in a diverse and exciting range of jobs, including stints with Chris Matthews of MSNBC-Hardball, with Tim Russert of NBC's Meet The Press, with Face The Nation, ESPN, National Geographic as well as in the press offices of senators and congressional representatives.

The heart of journalism -- breaking news -- is centered right here in Washington, and my colleagues and I will usher you to ringside seats to witness the most important news events and newsmakers of our times. Skills and contacts acquired during your 14-week stay will provide the solid backbone for future success in the field of communications. This semester in Washington will change your life.


Hope to see you in Washington!
Professor Iris Kransnow & David Armstrong

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