Application Deadline: March 1, 2024.
The Arthur F. Burns Fellowship, ICFJ’s longest-running program, provides young and experienced journalists with the opportunity to participate in an exchange program and work for prestigious media outlets in both Germany and the United States. As fellows, reporters learn firsthand about events in their host country, write stories for local media outlets and produce broadcast programs for both host country and home audiences. When they return home, they share their experiences with colleagues and continue to cover current events, using their new skills, contacts and a deeper understanding of international relations.
The 9-week program includes:
- One Week of Orientation in Washington D.C. (July 22, 2024 to July 27, 2024) – In July 2024, program participants attend a one-week orientation in Washington, D.C., attending meetings with prominent media and government representatives, and discussing critical issues impacting current events and media today. The orientation fosters a spirit of community among the participants and gives a foundation for understanding the importance of transatlantic relations.
- Eight-Week Exchange Program (July 27, 2024 to September 21, 2024) – Between August and September 2024, theNorth American fellows participate in a two-week language training before becoming embedded with German media outlets. The German fellows proceed directly to their host media in different cities throughout the United States. Over the next two months, fellows work as temporary staff members at newspapers, magazines, radio and television stations. In addition to covering local news, fellows report on events for their employers back home while learning more about their host country and its media ecosystem.
Application Requirements
- This competitive application is open to U.S., Canadian and German journalists between the age of 21-40, who are employed by a newspaper, news magazine, broadcast station, news agency, or who work as freelance and/or online reporters.
- Applicants must demonstrate journalistic talent and a strong interest in North American-European affairs.
- Applicants should have at least two years of full-time journalism experience. German language proficiency is not required, but it is encouraged.
Benefits
- Each North American fellow will receive a $4,000 stipend to cover living expenses during the nine-week-long fellowship in Germany. Participants also receive $1,500 for travel expenses.
- The program also pays for living expenses during the orientation in Washington, D.C.
Application Requirements
Required Application Materials:
- Personal Letter: A one-page letter detailing your motivation for applying to the program, including three potential story ideas to pursue during the fellowship
- Resume/CV
- Three Work Samples: Three professional work samples, which may be in any format (written, audio, video, etc.)
- A Letter of Recommendation: A one-page letter from your editor that recommends you for the program
- A Letter of Commitment to Publish Fellowship Content
- For Freelancers: A one-page letter from a media outlet that commits to publishing the work that you produce on this program
- For Journalists Employed by a Media Outlet: A one-page letter from your home outlet that commits to publishing your project from the fellowship
More Info: ICFJ Arthur F. Burns Fellowship
