Bridge launches new internship to boost diversity in environmental reporting

• Deadline to apply: Friday, Aug. 19, 2022
• Internship term: 10 weeks; approximate dates Sept. 12 - Dec. 2, 2022
• Scope of work: Part-time; 15 hours per week

Bridge Michigan is accepting applications for the Bridge Michigan Emerging Environment Journalist Internship, a part-time reporting opportunity during the fall semester. 

This paid internship is intended to provide opportunities for members of racial and ethnic minority groups who are underrepresented in Michigan newsrooms and particularly on the environmental beat. It is open to college students with ties to Michigan, who aspire to a career in journalism with a focus on issues related to the environment, climate change and natural resources.

Bridge is one of the fastest-growing, most respected nonprofit news organizations in the nation and a four-time Michigan Newspaper of the Year winner. This internship will help you gain experience and produce great clips while working closely with some of Michigan’s top environmental reporters. Interns can expect ample guidance, frequent feedback, and plenty of opportunities to chase good ideas.

Applicants must be a college sophomore, junior, senior, graduate student or recent graduate who aspires to a career in journalism, though a journalism degree is not required. Applicants must reside in or attend school in Michigan. Those who previously lived in Michigan or otherwise can demonstrate a tie to Michigan will also be considered. 

The fall 2022 intern will spend 10 weeks working part-time with the news staff at Bridge Michigan, with guidance from a staff mentor for the duration of the internship. Scope of the work likely will run from data entry, to interviews with sources, to reporting and writing stories independently and in collaboration with Bridge Michigan journalists. Work duties will be adapted to the intern's strengths, aspirations, and academic schedule. Interns will have access to Bridge offices in Lansing and Ypsilanti, but we will not rule out applicants who prefer remote work.

Interns will receive $2,250 over a 15 hour-per-week, 10-week schedule or pro-rated over a portion of a 10-week schedule ($15/hour), with start and end dates negotiable between September and December 2022. The internship pays mileage and other expenses relating to assignments, but does not include a housing stipend. Access to a vehicle is not required.  

Bridge Michigan is committed to diversity and building an inclusive environment for people of all backgrounds and ages. We especially encourage members of traditionally underrepresented communities to apply, including people of color, LGBTQ people, applicants from rural and low- or moderate-income households and people with disabilities.

Candidates should submit a cover letter, resume and clips (if applicable) to Kelly House at khouse@bridgemi.com, with “Bridge environment internship” in the subject line. Cover letters should describe the applicant's interest in a career in journalism and specific interest in and/or experience with environmental issues.

Questions? Just ask. The application deadline is Friday, August 19.