The Future of Media Excellence
The Media Scholars Program is a national initiative dedicated to empowering the next generation of diverse storytellers in media, sports, and entertainment. Through mentorship, hands-on experiences, and access to high-profile events, the program equips college students with the skills, networks, and confidence needed to launch successful careers. Scholars gain real-world experience covering cultural, sporting, and entertainment events while amplifying underrepresented voices in media.
Mission
The Media Scholars Program builds career pathways into the sports and media industries for college students from underestimated communities. Through hands-on training, professional mentorship, and credentialed coverage of major cultural and sporting events, we prepare scholars with the real-world experience, portfolios, and networks required to launch careers in media and journalism.
Vision
Our hope is that the Media Scholars Program will grow nationwide, opening a pipeline of career-ready media professionals from communities the industry has overlooked. We want MSP to become the leading platform for student talent in media and entertainment — and to leave behind a lasting community of alumni who will lead, innovate, and mentor the scholars who come after them.
Target Scholars
We serve ambitious young people from underrepresented communities — first-generation college students, students from under-resourced institutions, and emerging talent who have everything it takes but have never had the right door opened for them.
Scholar Profile
Currently enrolled at an accredited two- or four-year university + completed core coursework with hands-on field experience with active social media presence
Majoring in or actively interested in mass communication, sports, film, photography, content creation, or sports writing
The MSP Experience
Media Scholars receive hands-on, immersive experiences that give them the tools and confidence to succeed in competitive media careers. Experiences include:
Event Coverage: Scholars cover major cultural, sports, and entertainment events such as Super Bowl LIX, French Quarter Festival, UFC Fight Night, U.S. Gymnastics Championships, and the HBCU Legacy Bowl.
Behind-the-Scenes Access: Students conduct interviews, capture live performances, and gain insights into professional media operations.
Portfolio Development: Scholars produce high-quality content for their personal portfolios, strengthening their professional presence.
Networking & Mentorship: Direct access to industry professionals provides guidance and connections to support career growth.
Professional Training: Access media experts for hands-on professional development, guidance, and professional-level execution in front of and behind the camera - and everywhere in between and across the media landscape.
The Scholar Journey
MSP will provide industry-leading access and professional development to our Scholars throughout a college year.
Fall Semester (Sep - Dec)
Onboarding
Media Scholars Community Hub Access
Professional Development I
Fall Local Event (scheduled fall or spring)
ANCHOR EVENT - full press week for marquee event
Spring Semester (Jan - Apr)
Professional Development II
MSP Speaker Series - Industry Leaders
Spring Local Event (alternate to fall)
ANCHOR EVENT - full press week for marquee event (Jan - Mar)
Summer Scholars (May - Aug)
Media Scholars Community Hub Party Link
Professional Development III
Summer Local Event
Summer National Event - (ex. Essence Fest, NBA Summer League)
MSP Alumni Led - Marketing / Recruiting / Onboarding
Professional Development II
MSP Speaker Series - Industry Leaders
Spring Local Event (alternate to fall)
ANCHOR EVENT - full press week for marquee event (Jan - Mar)
Spring Semester (Jan - Apr)
Media Scholars Community Hub Party Link
Professional Development III
Summer Local Event
Summer National Event - (ex. Essence Fest, NBA Summer League)
MSP Alumni Led - Marketing / Recruiting / Onboarding
Summer Scholars (May - Aug)
Onboarding
Media Scholars Community Hub Access
Professional Development I
Fall Local Event (scheduled fall or spring)
ANCHOR EVENT - full press week for marquee event
Support our growth to help us expand Media Scholars Program® nationwide to impact more students and bring fresh perspective to the everchanging media industry
Click below to learn more and donate today!
Fall Semester (Sep - Dec)
Future and Expansion
Partnerships
Building partnerships with universities, sports leagues, and cultural organizations across the U.S.
National Reach
Hosting national summits and showcases to highlight scholar work and foster alumni connections.
Expand Cohorts
Expanding cohorts to reach more students from diverse backgrounds.
Sustainable Model
Establishing a sustainable model that continues to provide mentorship, access, and career pathways for future media leaders.
Contact MSP
Partner with MSP? Please use the interest form below or you can email us at info@mediascholarsprogram.org to set up a call to discuss partnerships and multi-scholar sponsorships.
Interested in becoming a Scholar? Click “Scholar Interest Form” below and we will be in touch for our next cohort!
Email: info@mediascholarsprogram.org
