Internship in the Media Industries

Internships have increasingly become a critical step in the college-to-career transition in the media industries and beyond. Given the prevalence and significance of internship to our students, the proposed project aims to address important department/CSU needs in the School of Journalism and Media (JAM), Department of Radio-TV-Film (RTF) and the Center for Entertainment and Media Industries by 1) exploring the past, present, and future convergence of the media, entertainment, and technology industries that contribute to growing Austin - and Texas - as a vital media and technology location, and 2) diversifying the media industries by increasing accessand experiential opportunities for disadvantaged students. First, the project will involve a community-based study of internship courses, engaging students, instructors, staff, and employers as a community of learning and practice. Second, the project will organize focus groups and workshops to facilitate conversations between and among stakeholders to articulate gaps, challenges, and best practices from the perspectives of students, educators, and industry professionals. Third, the project will implement and disseminate best practices in classroom teaching.