Philadelphia Student Press Association's Inaugural Annual Summit

The PSPA Inaugural Annual Journalism Summit is a two-day, free event for student journalists that explores real pathways into the media and journalism industry. Taking place April 24–25, 2026, at WHYY, the summit brings students into direct conversation with working journalists and media organizations across Philadelphia.

The weekend centers on practical panels and workshops designed to help student journalists grow. Sessions focus on writing strong news ledes, covering breaking news, landing live stand-ups, entertainment journalism, social media tools, freelancing and the gig economy, and how AI is shaping today’s newsrooms. Saturday also includes a keynote speaker and a guided tour of WHYY’s newsroom and collaborative spaces, giving students a clear view of how a professional media organization operates.

Connection and opportunity are the core of the summit. Students will network directly with professional journalists, publications, and media organizations actively seeking interns, future hires, contributors, and volunteers. Dedicated time for career tabling and networking gives students space to ask questions, share their work, and start building relationships that extend beyond the weekend.

Info: A practical session on covering breaking news ethically, accurately, and efficiently—especially in high-pressure situations.

Info: A forward-looking session on how artificial intelligence is reshaping reporting, editing, distribution, and audience trust. We’ll examine practical newsroom uses, ethical risks, and how student journalists can use these tools without sacrificing judgment, voice, or accountability.

Info: Learn how to write compelling ledes that hook readers and set the tone for impactful reporting. This session breaks down techniques used by professional editors and reporters to craft strong openings under pressure.

Info: A hands-on look at broadcast journalism, focused on on-camera presence, storytelling, and building a strong reporting reel.

Info: Learn how to amplify stories, build trust online, and use social platforms as reporting and distribution tools.

Info: A practical session on building a sustainable career outside traditional newsroom jobs. We’ll cover pitching, contracts, rates, rights, and how to protect your work while building relationships, reputation, and steady opportunities across outlets and platforms.

Info: A guide to covering arts, culture, and entertainment with limited resources while maintaining journalistic rigor.

Info: A focused session on developing a clear journalistic identity in a crowded media space. We’ll look at portfolios, social presence, niche expertise, and how to communicate what makes your work distinct so editors, audiences, and collaborators remember you for the right reasons.

Info: A tour of the soft-pressure tools colleges use: vague warnings, emails from general counsel, sudden reminders of handbook clauses, and how to recognize when something is a real legal issue versus an administrator trying to shut the door.

Info: TBD

Info: A candid session on what graduate school in journalism or media actually offers and who it’s for. We’ll discuss when a master’s makes sense, how to choose the right program, funding realities, and how advanced study can shape your reporting, network, and long-term trajectory in the field.

Info: Fully catered lunches and networking time for student journalists to connect and seek collaboration!

Info: An inside look at one of Philadelphia’s leading public media organizations. Participants will walk through WHYY’s studios, newsrooms, and production spaces while learning how stories move from reporting to broadcast and how public media serves local communities.

Info: A tabling session connecting attendees with professional journalism organizations, publications, and media groups offering internships, freelance work, mentorship, and volunteer opportunities. Participants can meet recruiters, learn what different outlets look for, and build relationships that turn into real-world experience.

Info: TBD

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

WHYY Public Media Commons, 132-154 North 7th Street, Philadelphia, United States

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