Ingelhart Scholars Program

Good journalists are special people who possess the perfect combination of communication skills and creative talents. The Ingelhart Scholars Program brings together a select group of promising young journalists to help them develop their skills and talents so they will be among the most prepared graduates in the country.

Each fall semester, 20 promising Ball State freshmen journalism majors are identified to participate in the program. This group will begin journalism studies together as freshmen and proceed through the major as a group, or cohort.

Because of their commitment to journalism, students in the Ingelhart Scholars Program will have access to a number of special experiences. Among them:

• special small classes for some of the core journalism courses
• mentoring from professionals and from leaders in campus media
• outings to professional news organizations and conferences
• special access to visiting professionals 
• increased interaction with the department’s faculty
• a built-in support system of like-minded journalism majors

How to Apply

The 2012 competition is now closed.  Check back Fall 2012 for information on applying to the program.

The application process involves submitting a packet, which includes:

• samples of the work that reflects your intended major, such as writing, designs, or photographs. Ideally, your work would have appeared in a high school publication. If your school did not have publications or if you are new to journalism, send any samples that demonstrate work related to your intended field of study.
• a letter of recommendation from a high school teacher who has worked with you on school publications or similar endeavors
• an official transcript from your high school
• a 500-word essay addressing this year’s question: Why does journalism matter?

Selection Process
A committee of journalism faculty members will review all applications based on students' academic records, commitment to journalism as a profession, and potential for growth. Students accepted as Ingelhart Scholars will receive a letter or e-mail that gives more information on the program.

Deadline
Applications are due March 1, 2011, for entrance into the program in the fall of the following academic year.