Advance/SILive.com expands journalism immersion program: Here’s how you can apply

STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — Staten Island student journalists will advance their skills in community news through an expanded program with the Staten Island Advance/SILive.com.

Through the High School Journalism Immersion program, young people are able to explore the world of multimedia journalism from experts in the field — providing an outlet for them to explore their passions, think critically and creatively, and produce content for Staten Island’s community newspaper, the Staten Island Advance. They will also be able to engage with those who have unique viewpoints and backgrounds that may differ from their own.

Opportunities involve reporting, writing, photography, social media, podcasting, and more.

“Maybe it’s an overused cliche to say young people are our future,” said Brian Laline, executive editor of the Advance/SILive.com. “Fact is, that has never been more true. A presidential election looms, and America is at a crossroad. It is essential for the youth of this country to be engaged.

“That’s why we are so excited at the Advance/SILive.com to expand our high school journalism immersion program. Maybe most high school students cannot yet vote. But they will have that opportunity soon. It’s gratifying for us to see young Staten Islanders so interested in journalism, so eager to be part of a profession to inform their peers, to share their thoughts with all of us. Cliche or not, these young journalists might one day help guide our future.

The program began in 2022 as an e-mentor program partnered with Curtis High School. It expanded earlier this year to include students at other schools, including Staten Island Technical High School and Staten Island Academy.

Now, the program will be open to students attending any high school on Staten Island.

The program is led by Cassy Sommer, community news manager at the Advance/SILive.com, and Lauren Lovallo, supervisor of social audience and content for the organization. Staff members at the Advance/SILive.com have volunteered to act as mentors, working with students based upon interests and projects they are passionate about.

Students will meet in the Advance/SILive.com newsroom in Bloomfield regularly to discuss story ideas, learn about multimedia equipment and more. Throughout the monthslong program, students will have the opportunity to see their hard work published, and will earn a stipend for each published piece.

To be considered, a student must attend high school on Staten Island. Candidates should be civic-minded and have an interest in community journalism. Additionally, they must complete an online application and submit a written reference from a teacher, coach, employer, or someone that can speak to their character. Written references from friends or relatives will not be accepted.

Candidates will then be contacted to set up an informal interview. They will also be required to sign a student release form at a later date.

If applying over the summer, candidates must submit the application and reference by July 31. A second round of applications in the fall will be accepted by Sept. 25.

To view the online application, and to apply, visit: