WSJ opens financial journalism fellowship applications

The Wall Street Journal announced it is opening applications for the third session of the WSJ Finance Reporting Fellowships, a professional training program for early career journalists with an interest in covering financial markets, the economy and personal finance.

In partnership with the National Association of Hispanic Journalists (NAHJ), the 12-month fellowship includes mentorship and training for two embedded fellows on The Wall Street Journal’s markets and personal finance teams. As full-time members of the newsroom, these fellows work closely with editors to gain expertise and sharpen their reporting skills and proficiency in the Journal’s highly regarded news standards.

“We are growing this fellowship in markets and personal finance with added coverage of the economy to ensure access to these critical topics as our readers make important financial decisions and better understand how the economy impacts their lives,” said Brent Jones, senior vice president of training, culture and community at Dow Jones. “This valued partnership with NAHJ reinforces the importance of collaboration in identifying strong, diverse talent and our commitment to developing talent with high professional standards that include reflecting the communities we serve.”

Two journalists with at least one year of newsroom experience will be selected for the third session, which will run from January to December of 2025. Members of NAHJ and journalists from underrepresented communities are especially encouraged to apply.

“Many emerging journalists and NAHJ members are interested in covering financial topics, and they bring unique experiences and perspectives that can change the way business, finance and the economy are covered,” said Yaneth Guillén-Diaz, NAHJ executive director. “The Wall Street Journal shares our commitment to more diverse voices in business journalism, and this prestigious fellowship equips reporters with the skills and understanding to succeed in today’s data-driven journalism landscape.”

In serving as current WSJ Finance Reporting fellows, Kailyn Rhone and Katherine Hamilton have reported on topics ranging from extreme renters, the volatility of the American borrowing system, how TikTok is leading Gen Z to sports betting to pay their student loan debt, how AI is helping scammers outsmart you, an extremely timely look into the many differences between Tim Walz’s and JD Vance’s personal finances and more.

“I’ve had such an amazing time during the fellowship so far. Throughout my time here, I’ve learned what makes a story go from compelling to unforgettable,” said Rhone. “My proudest moment was when one of my stories ended up among the most read of the week. My work has also been featured in print and several podcasts, two of my goals coming into the fellowship. This experience has allowed me to be more confident in my reporting and understanding of business journalism. It’s one I’ll never forget.”

Hamilton echoed, “The WSJ Finance Reporting Fellowship has given me the opportunity to collaborate and learn from some of the most talented reporters I’ve known. It’s a great chance to explore a range of reporting topics and push yourself to be more innovative with your storytelling. There is no shortage of opportunities and the Journal does a great job providing support and mentorship to its new fellows.”

The WSJ Finance Reporting Fellowships program aligns with and helps elevate Dow Jones’s dedication to producing trustworthy, independent journalism by providing a robust and dedicated training program for young journalists across all levels of the industry. Journalists interested in reporting some of the most impactful stories of the day at this award-winning news organization are encouraged to apply by Wednesday, Oct. 23, 2024.