Call for Spring 2026 Applications

We are excited to invite pairs of students to conduct research on a region or a theme in world affairs and develop three podcast episodes. Students selected for this fellowship will receive $1,050 disbursed in three payments ($350 x 3). Under the supervision of journalism Prof. Terril Jones, student teams will develop and post podcast episodes of 25-30 minutes approximately once a month. We instruct how to conceive, plan, produce and post podcasts to Spotify and YouTube. We do not require previous experience in podcasting. The Keck Center will also post the podcasts on its website, which we recommend you browse (see below) before applying, both for inspiration and so as not to repeat previous topics. Some subjects are fair for alternative approaches, or if a situation has changed significantly, it might be worthwhile taking a new look. CMC first-year students and sophomores are eligible to apply. Juniors may apply only if they have never been supported by any CMC institute. Preference will go to students who have not received support from the Keck Center in 2025. This invitation is for students who have not previously taken part in the Keck Center’s podcast program. If you applied in the past but were not selected, you are welcome to apply again.

Students must commit to attend group training sessions with Prof. Jones on podcast development 11am-12pm on six Friday mornings (Jan 23, 30, Feb 6, 13, 20, March 20). Terril Jones will be available to meet throughout the semester. The final podcast is due Friday, May 8, 2026.  The first payment will be after teams post the first episode; the second and third payments after posting Episodes 2 and 3. You must consider if your schedule allows you to attend the training sessions and to meet the deadlines, and that your topic is specific and feasible. You may direct any questions to Terril Jones at tjones@cmc.edu at any time.

To Apply:

Send applications (as one file) on/before Monday, November 24 to keckcenter@cmc.edu & tjones@cmc.edu. Click below to see the Application Form for more information or to view previous podcasts.