For students aspiring to document campus life or explore scientific discoveries through writing, Boston University (BU) offers two distinctive internship programs: BU Today and The Brink. These initiatives serve as gateways to professional journalism, each providing unique opportunities for skill development and career growth.
BU Today: Chronicling Campus Life
The BU Today internship transforms participants into campus observers, covering diverse aspects of student life. Interns report on arts events, fashion trends, lifestyle features, and athletic competitions while crafting news stories that capture the university's dynamic atmosphere. This experience extends beyond conventional reporting, offering participants an immersive understanding of campus culture.
Prospective candidates should demonstrate strong writing abilities and prior journalism experience. Competitive applications typically include published writing samples. The program offers flexible scheduling options—full-time or part-time during summer terms, with a commitment of 10-12 weekly hours during academic semesters. Participants gain practical skills in news production while deepening their connection to the university community.
The Brink: Science Journalism Redefined
For students passionate about science communication, The Brink internship provides specialized training in translating complex research into accessible stories. Interns focus on scientific discoveries, health innovations, and climate change developments while highlighting undergraduate research achievements. This program requires both technical comprehension and narrative storytelling skills.
The Brink challenges participants to bridge the gap between scientific research and public understanding. Through practical reporting assignments, interns develop specialized expertise in science communication while learning to present technical information to broad audiences.
Application Essentials
Successful applications for both programs require:
- Detailed professional resumes highlighting relevant experience
- High-quality writing samples demonstrating journalism skills
- Strong recommendation letters endorsing candidates' qualifications
Prospective applicants should note the differing deadlines: March 25 for BU Today and November 13 for The Brink. These dates typically apply to the 2025-2026 academic cycle.
Professional Development Benefits
Beyond resume enhancement, these internships provide significant career advantages. Participants gain direct access to industry professionals, receiving personalized feedback while building professional networks. The programs offer comprehensive training in newsroom operations, from story conception to final publication.
Interns develop critical professional skills including:
- News gathering and reporting techniques
- Interviewing and research methodologies
- Editorial judgment and ethical decision-making
- Adaptive communication strategies
These experiences cultivate professional confidence while preparing participants for media industry challenges. Many program alumni credit their internship experiences with providing career-launching opportunities, as employers frequently prioritize candidates with practical journalism training.
Boston University's journalism internships represent more than academic requirements—they serve as transformative professional experiences that equip participants with practical skills, industry connections, and career momentum in competitive media environments.