Summer Intern

The Ledger-Enquirer is seeking a curious, resourceful reporting intern to help tell the stories shaping life across Columbus and the Chattahoochee Valley.

This is a reporting opportunity for someone eager to learn by doing: finding story ideas, talking with people across the community and producing clear, accurate journalism for digital audiences. The intern will work with editors and newsroom colleagues while covering a range of local news, community issues and events.

• Report and write original stories about people, places, events and issues across the Chattahoochee Valley.
• Cover a varied assignment list that may include education, public safety, local government, business, community events and breaking news.
• Explain why the news matters to local readers, not just what happened.
• Find story ideas through community conversations, public information, events, reader questions and newsroom collaboration.
• Interview sources, verify information and meet agreed-upon deadlines.
• Work with editors to develop story angles, sharpen drafts and follow up on important developments.

• Build respectful connections with residents, community organizations, public officials and other sources.
• Attend assigned meetings, events and gatherings, and report from the scene when appropriate.
• Seek perspectives from people whose experiences may be missing from the conversation.
• Represent the Ledger-Enquirer fairly and professionally in the community.

• Write clear, engaging stories for the Ledger-Enquirer’s digital platforms.
• Contribute photos, short-form video, social posts or other digital elements when appropriate to the story.
• Learn the basics of digital publishing, headline writing and audience-focused presentation.
• Collaborate with editors and colleagues on the format and timing of coverage.

• Demonstrated interest in journalism, with some reporting or writing experience through coursework, student media, freelance work or other projects.
• Strong writing, listening and communication skills.
• Curiosity about the community and a willingness to ask thoughtful questions.
• Good organization, accuracy and attention to detail.
• Ability to take editorial feedback, work collaboratively and meet deadlines.
• Commitment to fairness, accuracy, transparency and ethical journalism.
• Ability to work in or report from Columbus and the surrounding area during the summer internship period.

• Experience with student media, community reporting or other journalism projects.
• Familiarity with the Columbus area and the Chattahoochee Valley, or enthusiasm and a plan for learning about the region.
• Experience taking photographs, producing video or creating content for digital and social platforms.
• Familiarity with social media, digital publishing or basic SEO.

Success means contributing accurate, useful and engaging journalism while growing as a reporter. The strongest intern will bring initiative, curiosity and care to each assignment, make meaningful connections in the community and help readers better understand the people and issues around them.

The Ledger-Enquirer serves Columbus, Georgia, and the surrounding Chattahoochee Valley with local journalism that is real and relevant. We are committed to reporting that reflects the full range of experiences across the region.

To apply: Please submit a resume, cover letter and work samples.