Internship Requirements

The Sergeant Bluff Advocate internship is designed to provide meaningful, real-world journalism experience while maintaining clear expectations for student success. The following requirements help ensure interns gain the most from their time in the newsroom.

Eligibility

Applicants should meet the following criteria:

• Be currently enrolled in an accredited college or university.
• Pursuing a degree in journalism, communications, or Mass  Communications.
• In good academic standing (if completing for credit)

Skills and Qualifications

Preferred qualifications include:

• Strong writing and grammar skills
• Ability to communicate clearly and professionally
• Interest in community news and storytelling
• Willingness to conduct interviews with a variety of sources
• Basic knowledge of AP style (helpful but not required)
• Photography skills (a plus, but not required)

Interns should be self-motivated, reliable, and open to feedback.

Time Commitment

• Typical commitment: 10–15 hours per week
• Internship duration: One academic semester (Fall, Spring, or Summer)
• Schedule: Flexible, based on academic requirements

Interns must be able to meet deadlines and maintain consistent communication throughout the internship.

Responsibilities and Expectations

Interns are expected to:

• Write 1–2 stories per week
• Meet agreed-upon deadlines
• Conduct interviews in a professional manner
• Attend and cover assigned events when possible
• Respond to emails and communications in a timely manner
• Accept feedback and revise work as needed

Interns are encouraged to take initiative by pitching story ideas and pursuing topics of interest.

Work Environment

• In-person participation is preferred, especially for covering local events
• Some hybrid or remote work may be allowed depending on assignments
• Interns should have access to:
  • Reliable transportation (for local coverage)
  • A computer and internet connection (if not in office)
  • A phone for conducting interviews (if not in office)

A computer and phone will be supplied while working in the Sergeant Bluff Office. When required, you will also have a camera available to cover local events.  However, the camera is required to be returned to the office every day after use.

Academic Credit Requirements

For students completing the internship for academic credit:

• Interns must meet all requirements set by their college or university
• The Sergeant Bluff Advocate will:
  • Approve time logs as needed
  • Complete midterm and/or final evaluations
  • Communicate with faculty advisors if required

Students are responsible for coordinating with their academic program.

Professional Standards

Interns represent the Sergeant Bluff Advocate and are expected to:

• Uphold journalistic integrity and accuracy
• Treat sources and community members with respect
• Follow ethical reporting practices
• Maintain professionalism in all interactions

Application Requirements

To be considered for the internship, applicants must submit:

• A resume
• 1–3 writing samples (class assignments are acceptable)
• A brief statement of interest
• A letter from your Journalism/Academic advisor recommending you for the internship.
• Completed Internship Application

Applications should be sent to:

Tim Loftus, Publisher
Sergeant Bluff Advocate
tim@sb-advocate.com

Commitment to Learning

The internship at the Sergeant Bluff Advocate is intended to be a learning experience first and foremost. Students who are curious, motivated, and eager to improve will gain the most from the opportunity—and leave with valuable experience and published work.