# Northwestern National High School Institute (Cherubs) - Journalism The Northwestern National High School Institute (Cherubs) - Journalism is an intensive, four-week residential program designed for high school students passionate about journalism and multimedia storytelling. Hosted by the prestigious Medill School of Journalism at Northwestern University, this program immerses participants in the world of professional journalism, equipping them with the skills, knowledge, and experience necessary to create high-quality, impactful work. ## Program Structure This program is conducted entirely in-person at Northwestern University, located in the United States. Over the course of four weeks, students participate in daily sessions that blend hands-on experiences with expert instruction. The curriculum is designed to cover multiple facets of journalism, including writing, editing, multimedia production, and investigative reporting. Participants work collaboratively and independently to produce professional-quality pieces, such as articles, video packages, and multimedia projects. The program also incorporates workshops, guest lectures from industry professionals, and fieldwork opportunities, providing students with a comprehensive understanding of both traditional and modern journalism practices. ## What Students Experience Students in the Cherubs Journalism program engage in real-world journalistic activities that foster creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving. Highlights include: - **Writing and Editing:** Participants refine their craft through structured writing exercises and peer editing sessions. - **Multimedia Storytelling:** Students learn to create engaging multimedia content using tools and techniques relevant to today’s digital landscape. - **Mentorship:** Experienced instructors and professionals from the Medill School of Journalism provide personalized guidance and support throughout the program. - **Collaborative Projects:** Team-based assignments encourage students to develop interpersonal and leadership skills while producing impactful work. - **Exposure to Industry Practices:** Guest speakers and field trips offer valuable insights into the inner workings of the journalism industry. By the end of the program, students leave with a polished portfolio of work, enhanced technical skills, and a deeper understanding of the journalism field. ## Why It Matters for College Applications Participating in the Northwestern National High School Institute - Journalism demonstrates a student's commitment to academic and artistic growth. The rigorous curriculum and professional-grade work produced during the program highlight qualities such as diligence, creativity, and intellectual curiosity—traits that are highly valued by college admissions committees. Additionally, the experience of studying at Northwestern University, a globally recognized institution, adds further prestige to any application. Students can also showcase their portfolio of high-quality, published work in applications for journalism, communications, media, or arts-related programs, distinguishing themselves from other applicants. ## Eligibility This program is open to high school students entering grades 11 or 12. Applicants should have a strong interest in journalism and multimedia arts. No prior experience is required, but enthusiasm and dedication are essential for success in this rigorous program. ## How to Participate To apply, students must complete an application form, which typically includes a written statement, samples of creative or journalistic work, and teacher recommendations. Deadlines and specific requirements vary, so students are encouraged to visit the program's official website for the most accurate and up-to-date information. For more details, including the application process and eligibility criteria, visit the [Northwestern National High School Institute website](https://www.northwestern.edu/nhsi/).