FAQ

I’m a Yale student interested in journalism but don’t know where to start. Help!

Gladly! This is why the YJI program was created.

Here is a list of things you can do to get involved with journalism at Yale. 

  • Sign up for our newsletter.

YJI’s newsletter is a great resource for students interested in journalism. Each week, YJI’s student fellows highlight job postings, upcoming course and internship deadlines, and on-campus journalism and writing events. Sign up here. 

English 120 is a particularly good place to start building a strong writing foundation. Here is a list of other nonfiction classes that will help hone your writing and reporting skills. 

  • Check out our online resources.

  • Schedule a meeting with YJI director Haley Cohen Gilliland (at haley.cohengilliland@yale.edu) or one of YJI’s student fellows. (A warning: Haley will probably drag you on a walk, so dress accordingly.) 

What is a YJI Scholar and how can I become one?

Learn more about the YJI Scholar program and its requirements here.  

What happens if I don’t get into English 467: Journalism?

ENGL 467 is a very popular course with limited space. Often, over 100 students apply for 15-18 spots. Many students apply several times before being accepted, so be sure to reapply if you aren’t accepted on your first try.

How do I get an internship in journalism? 

Happy you asked. We have a whole page dedicated to precisely this question. 

What sources of funding are available to Yale students for independent journalism projects?

The Yale Fellowships office offers several fellowships that support independent reporting projects. Deadlines are usually in February and interested students can schedule an advising session with someone from the fellowships office here to learn more. 

If you have completed ENGL 467 or are a staff member at the YDN, you are also eligible for funding from the Gordon Summer Journalism Fellowship. 

What sources of funding are available to support unpaid or underpaid internships?

The Yale Fellowships office offers several fellowships that support journalism internships. Deadlines are usually in February and interested students can schedule an advising session with someone from the fellowships office here to learn more. 

Students who have completed or are currently enrolled in English 467 can apply to YJI for funding. Grants are capped at $5,000 and based on need. 

Students who receive financial aid can apply for the Summer Experience Award to intern at nonprofit newsrooms.