How can journalists position themselves more effectively in this ever-changing environment? That was one of the topics at the journalism fellowship workshop.

Harvard University, University of Michigan and Stanford University all offer a 10-month journalism fellowship for mid-career and veteran journalists. All of the panelists expressed how important it is for applicants to have strong letters of recommendation. Choose people that you trust and more importantly that you know will give you a glowing recommendation. Birgit Rieck, Assistant Director of Knight-Wallace Fellows, said it isn’t as important that the person giving the recommendation is a big name, but rather that they will give you an accurate description of the type of worker you are and why you would be an asset to the fellowship program.

All three of the prestigious universities are “outside the box” thinkers. They are looking for all kinds of journalists from different backgrounds and different experiences. They stressed that they aren’t looking just for the traditional print journalist or television anchor or reporter. They want people who think creatively and bring something different to the table. Whether it’s developing a new iPhone app or constructing a website that brings immigrant communities together with journalists and provides them a much needed voice.

The 10-month fellowship offers a stipend of between 60-70 thousand dollars, which includes housing and medical benefits. Sounds like a great opportunity. Study at a prestigious university and get paid to do it! And most importantly, bring new thoughts and ideas back to your newsroom.

-Brian Ojima