Journalism interns at the SPLC produce the Report, the Center's thrice-yearly magazine that chronicles student press cases and controversies and related legislation from around the country. The interns serve as editors of the magazine, soliciting illustrations, completing computer desk- top layout and writing headlines in addition to their primary role of reporting and writing news stories. In recent years, interns have followed the efforts of state legislatures around the country to pass laws overcoming the Supreme Court's decision in the case Hazelwood School District v. Kuhlmeier, in which the Court limited the First Amendment rights of high school journalists. Interns also participate in the seminar series conducted by the SPLC and the Reporters Committee for Freedom of the Press. Topics of the seminars range from confidential sources to restrictions on advertising in the media, and speakers have included NBC News reporter Carl Stern and former Presidential Press Secretary Jody Powell.
Many interns arrange to receive academic credit from their college or university.
Applications for full and part-time interns are accepted. If you are interested in applying, send a resume, the names and telephone numbers of two references, samples of your writing, clips and a cover letter describing your interest in working for the Student Press Law Center. Hiring decisions are made on a rotating basis, so early applications are encouraged.