During the summer of 2019, I was selected to attend the Al Neuharth Free Spirit and Journalism Conference in Washington D.C. 

This experience was all-expense-paid and lasted from June 14– 20, 2019; what’s more, I also received a $1,000 Scholarship! 

During the conference, I was able to meet students from all 50 states and meet and hear the stories of renowned professional journalists, such as David Fahrenthold, Chuck Todd, and Charles Haynes. 

I was also able to meet two Freedom Riders and hear their incredible stories of fighting for justice during the historic civil rights movement. 

Our week-long adventure in Washington DC was packed with fun activities, including events that were non-journalism related, such as visiting the Lincoln Memorial, White House, and the US Congress building. Exploring these national treasures with the new friends I had made was truly an incredible experience. 

However, my favorite experience of the conference was touring the USA Today newsroom. Entering this acclaimed newsroom, meeting the staff, and hearing about the role of each staff member was eye-opening and fascinating. 

As the next application season gets underway, I encourage all of you readers to apply if you are a current junior in high school. This conference is once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that you will not want to miss. I promise you! 

Link to apply for the 2020 Conference:

https://www.freedomforuminstitute.org/initiatives/al-neuharth-free-spirit-and-journalism-conference/