Posted Feb. 10, 2020
By Rebekah Friedman, communications manager, rebekahb@mailbox.sc.edu, 803-576-7270
Top photo: 2019 Digital Media Academy attendees with Rick Henry, sports director at
WIS TV
The College of Information and Communications will host its second annual Digital Media Academy: Advancing Diversity in Digital Media from May 18-22, 2020, at the School of Journalism and Mass Communications. Students from diverse backgrounds are invited to apply for the week-long video storytelling camp, which will prepare them for a spectrum of media careers.
The academy is a week-long bootcamp in video storytelling. In the inaugural session last May, participants came from Claflin University, South Carolina State University, Voorhees College, Columbia College and the University of South Carolina.
This year’s academy will feature two tracks: strategic communications and news.
Participants will finish the week with a video for their demo reels as well as a certificate of accomplishment. In the course of the week, they will hear from news and public relations professionals. Attendees will also visit local TV stations and ad agencies.
“Industry leaders are constantly asking us to send them diverse talent,” says Tom Reichert, dean of the CIC. “The academy is a way for us to meet their needs while also offering a valuable educational experience for underrepresented students from our university and others.”
About the Digital Media Academy
Come for the experience and prepare for a future career
Discover and prepare for a career in digital media during our week-long, immersive,
dive-in academy. Using mobile devices, professional editing software and your imagination,
you will learn the principles and techniques of video storytelling and more in South
Carolina’s state-of-the-art media facilities. Receive hands-on experience and expert
training and mentoring from faculty and industry professionals. Earn a certificate
of completion from the University of South Carolina.
Who is eligible to apply?
All sophomores, juniors, seniors, first-year graduate students — any majors interested
in learning more about video storytelling. All underrepresented students are eligible
to apply, including those attending HBCUs in South Carolina. A minimum GPA of 3.0
is required.
How do you apply?
Apply here» Once we receive your application, we will send you a confirmation email with instructions
for uploading your letter of recommendation from a previous or current professor,
employer, or other professional contact.
Is there a fee to participate?
There is no fee to participate, but participants are expected to provide their own
housing and transportation. The academy provides the instruction in a state-of-the
art facility, equipment, meals, entertainment, career counseling, coaches, and mentors
for the week-long academy. Students who successfully complete the academy will receive
a Certificate of Completion.
Where will the DMA be held?
The Digital Media Academy will be held on the University of South Carolina campus
in the School of Journalism and Mass Communications Building, 800 Sumter Street.