Get ready… this edition of The Mix is as packed as a midtown, rush-hour train after “signal problems.”

Earlier this month we kicked off the 6th annual Summer Youth Podcast Academy, a three-week immersive workshop for New York City high school students. With guidance from audio journalism experts, our students have learned how to craft a compelling story, use pro-grade gear, and “write for the ear.” The other day, they had fun practicing “person on the street” interviews near our office. New Yorkers never disappoint

They’re currently putting the finishing touches on original podcast episodes profiling "unsung heroes" in the city's public sector. Stay tuned!

In the meantime, subscribe to our YouTube channel, where you’ll find all four episodes from our recent Miseducation video series, Confronting the Status Quo.

Vote to send our students back to the SXSW EDU stage 

Think students deserve a seat at the table – or on the stage – at one of the most influential education conferences in the country? Last year, thanks to your support, our student reporters recorded a live podcast about inequities in the NYC school system.

Help send us back for an encore by voting for our SXSW EDU session proposal: “How Teen Journalists Drive Change in their Communities.” Student reporters from The Bell will speak about the tangible impacts of their reporting and why it’s so important for young people to have a voice in education policymaking. Vote here by August 24.

Student podcasters meet New York Times audio producers and editors 

Last week, our Summer Youth Podcast Academy reporters visited the New York Times office in Manhattan. They toured the newsroom, viewed historic front pages in the Times museum, and stepped inside the podcast studios. To top it off, students joined a Q&A with producers and editors from Times podcasts including Culture Desk, Cannonball, The Interview, and Hard Fork. Huge thanks to the New York Times for hosting us—and for inspiring the next generation of journalists.

Meet our newest staff member

We’re thrilled to welcome a familiar face to our full-time staff team!

Sophie Mode

Program Associate, Youth Journalism Coalition

Student leader receives surprise visit from Univision anchor Jorge Ramos

Youth Journalism Coalition student leader Camila Sosa couldn’t believe her eyes when Univision anchor Jorge Ramos knocked on her door last month to congratulate her for receiving the prestigious QuestBridge college scholarship. Camila wrote her QuestBridge essay about how watching Mr. Ramos’ broadcasts every evening while growing up inspired her to pursue journalism. The two of them sat down to discuss the power of Latinx representation in the media in a heartwarming, full-circle conversation, that her alma mater, Uncommon Collegiate Charter High School, helped arrange.

Though Camila didn’t have access to a journalism program at her high school, she championed equitable access to youth journalism as a YJC leader—paving the way for scores of NYC students to follow. This fall, she will attend Wesleyan University, where she plans to double major in film and English.

Featured student opportunities

The Dear You Leadership Program is accepting applications to participate in a nationwide initiative that will bring together high school juniors and seniors to grow as mental health advocates and storytellers in their communities. Students will join monthly virtual sessions featuring national speakers, meaningful dialogue, and hands-on leadership projects that drive impact. Learn more and apply here by August 31.

Girls Write Now is accepting applications for its writing mentorship Journeys program. Each “Journey” in the Girls Write Now Collaboratory is a package of writing course content, mentorship, and community experiences. Areas of focus range from fiction writing, to comedy writing, to podcasting. Explore the different “Journeys” and apply here by August 31.

New York Jewish Week is accepting applications for its Teen Journalism Fellowship. This opportunity is open to 15-18 year olds who are interested in reporting community news through a Jewish teen lens. Fellows are expected to work independently and be on the hunt for the news in their communities and the world around them to produce at least one piece. Apply here by September 10. 

The Bronx Documentary Center is accepting applications for the Youth Photo League, a free documentary photography and college success program for middle and high school students. Students learn photography, writing, and research as tools to explore social justice issues, while gaining skills that prepare them for college and future careers. All NYC youth grades 6-12 are eligible. Learn more and apply here by September 14.

PBS News Student Reporting Labs is seeking high school students who are interested in news and current events for its 2025-26 Student Advisory Team. This is a virtual experience to meet with professionals, connect with other students from across the country, shape SRL's editorial coverage, and share ideas. Students will receive a $100 stipend upon successful completion of the program. Learn more and apply here by September 19.

Citizens Committee for Children of New York is accepting applications for the YouthAction NYC Internship program, a year-long civic engagement program. Participants will gain the skills to advocate on behalf of themselves, their schools, and their communities, learn how to conduct hands-on research, and meet with government officials. All New Yorkers aged 14-19 are eligible, and interns can earn up to $800. Learn more and apply here by September 21.

The Brooklyn Museum is accepting applications for its paid teen night planning committee internship. Planning committee teen staff design, plan, and host three annual Teen Nights and other public programs for teens. All 14-19 year-olds who attend a NYC school are eligible. Apply here by September 21. 

The Brooklyn Museum is also accepting applications for a paid museum apprentice internship. Throughout the year, apprentices learn from curators and education staff to develop their own tours, and teach camp groups over the summer while building teamwork, communication, and teaching skills. All 14-19 year-olds who attend a NYC school are eligible. Apply here by October 5. 

The Brooklyn Museum is also accepting applications for its paid InterseXtions teen staff internship. In this program, teen staff design, plan, and host our annual LGBTQ+ Teen Night designed by and for LGBTQ+ youth and allies, inspired by exhibitions, and host smaller programming advancing LGBTQ+ advocacy. All 14-19 year-olds who attend a NYC school are eligible. Apply here by October 19.  

National Queer Theater is accepting applications for Staging Pride, its free after-school theater program for LGBTQ+ youth. The program builds theater skills while exploring LGBTQ+ culture, and queer youth ages 13-18 are encouraged to apply. The program offers trips for students to see Broadway and Off-Broadway shows, and masterclasses with industry professionals. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis. Learn more and apply here.

From the archives

Alumni spotlight: Bree Campbell

“Since interning with The Bell, I have continued my journey in advocacy, media, and podcasting. After publishing my Miseducation episode, Responding to Racism in Schools, I went on to host Season 4 of PBS Student Reporting Labs’ On Our Minds podcast, which centers on mental health and the teenage experience. There, I had the incredible opportunity to interview the U.S. Surgeon General and speak on a panel at the 2024 Education Writers Association National Seminar. This past spring, I had the honor of being named one of SRL’s 20 up-and-coming storytellers under 20. I recently transferred to St. John’s University as a rising sophomore, where I’m double majoring in communications arts and art history. This summer, I’m thrilled to be back at The Bell as a program assistant for the Summer Youth Podcast Academy! The Bell has truly inspired me to continue to pursue both advocacy and journalism, and I will always carry with me the lessons of great storytelling and digging deep into issues I passionately believe in.”

– Bree Campbell, Miseducation ‘22-23

Photo of the month

Sabrina, CJ, and Mira had a fantastic time connecting with high school students and fellow youth voice organizations from across the city at the New York Public Library’s annual teen voices festival last month.

We need your support! Help us expand our programs this school year.