The AJI Training Program

AJI fellows undergo a rigorous two-year training program that consists of lectures, skills workshops, field trips and other experiences relevant to becoming a well-rounded reporter.

They do this while writing news stories every day. Unlike other journalism training, our fellows, under supervision, begin writing news stories almost immediately in a “sink-or-swim” environment.

By the time you are done with your fellowship, you will have mastered the following:

  • Basic news story structure, including how to write a lede, a nut graf and an informative headline
  • Understanding the role of journalism in today’s society
  • Fundamental economics
  • The necessity of free markets
  • Understanding the protections of the First Amendment
  • The art of the getting and conducting major interviews
  • Promoting your stories via social media
  • Understanding K street and how to follow the money
  • How to obtain information via FOIA
  • TV and radio appearance skills
  • How to analyze America’s economy
  • Perspectives on the dangers of “woke” thinking

Nothing will better prepare you for a career in journalism.