South Dakota Press Association Scholarship

Name: South Dakota Press Association Scholarship

Award Amount: Varies (commonly $500–$2,000 depending on funding and applicant pool)

Information And Eligibility:
The South Dakota Press Association (SDPA) Scholarship is designed to cultivate the next generation of journalists, editors, photographers, and media professionals who will contribute to strong, ethical storytelling in South Dakota communities and beyond. This scholarship supports students who are passionate about journalism, communications, digital media, broadcasting, public relations, or related fields. The SDPA recognizes the vital role that professional, accurate, and community-focused reporting plays in maintaining an informed public, strengthening local democracy, and preserving the integrity of the free press. By offering financial assistance, the scholarship encourages students to pursue degrees that will prepare them for impactful careers in the rapidly evolving media landscape.

This scholarship is ideal for students who have already demonstrated an interest in journalism—whether through school newspapers, yearbook, broadcasting clubs, internships at local media outlets, freelance writing, or content creation. The SDPA values applicants who show a clear commitment to improving their craft, upholding high ethical standards, and serving the public interest. Students exploring careers in print journalism, online news, radio, television, investigative reporting, multimedia storytelling, and community journalism are strong candidates.

In addition to academic promise, the scholarship committee looks for applicants who demonstrate motivation, curiosity, and a willingness to engage deeply with issues that affect their communities. The scholarship helps students offset tuition costs so they can focus on developing their reporting skills, learning modern media tools, and gaining hands-on experience through internships, workshops, or campus media organizations. The SDPA’s goal is to foster future journalists who will contribute to the health and vibrancy of local news across South Dakota.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Must be a high school senior, undergraduate student, or transfer student pursuing a degree in journalism, mass communication, media studies, broadcasting, public relations, advertising, or a closely related field.
• Must be planning to attend or currently attending an accredited college, university, or technical school.
• Must demonstrate a strong interest in journalism or media through coursework, school activities, writing samples, or professional experience.
• Must show academic potential and a commitment to pursuing a career in the communications or media industry.
• South Dakota residency or plans to work in a South Dakota media outlet may strengthen the application.

Application Requirements:

• Complete the SDPA Scholarship application form.
• Submit official or unofficial transcripts showing academic history and performance.
• Provide 1–3 writing samples, media projects, or portfolio pieces such as news articles, features, opinion writing, photography, videos, or podcasts.
• Include at least one letter of recommendation from a teacher, journalism adviser, employer, or professional in the media field.
• Write a personal essay outlining your interest in journalism, your career goals, and the role you hope to play in the future of news and media.
• Optional: Submit a résumé detailing relevant experience such as school newspaper involvement, internships, freelance work, or extracurricular activities.

Deadline: Varies annually; applicants should refer to the South Dakota Press Association website or contact local SDPA member newspapers for the current year’s deadline.

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