Youth Journalist (Paid)

About Babel Institute

Babel Institute is an independent, nonpartisan public policy think tank dedicated to advancing practical solutions to the political, economic, and social challenges facing young people around the world. Its work spans the United States, Latin America, Europe, and Africa.

At the heart of our mission is Verity Voices, the publishing arm of the think tank and our youth-centered platform for commentary and storytelling. The journal is scheduled to launch on August 23, 2026.

Verity Voices will combine rigorous research with lived experience to examine the issues shaping the lives of young people. Our goal is to connect empirical analysis with firsthand experience so that policy is evidence-based and responsive to the people it is intended to serve.

Position Overview

The Youth Journalist role is designed to give students hands-on experience researching, reporting, and writing for publication.

During the fall term, the Youth Journalist will produce written work and digital content for Verity Voices Journal. The position is intended for students interested in journalism and public affairs who want experience producing work for publication.

Responsibilities

• Produce articles, explainers, interviews, commentary, and digital content for Verity Voices Journal.
• Research assigned topics and develop original story ideas.
• Conduct interviews with relevant sources when appropriate.
• Follow news and policy developments that may lead to timely stories.
• Verify names, dates, quotations, statistics, and other factual references.
• Meet deadlines and publication expectations.

Qualifications

• Current undergraduate or first-year graduate student enrolled at an accredited college or university in the United States.
• Minimum cumulative GPA of 3.6 on a 4.0 scale.
• Strong writing skills and the ability to explain complex issues clearly.
• Interest in journalism, public policy, global affairs, and social impact.
• Experience evaluating sources and verifying facts.
• Ability to work independently and follow editorial guidance.
• Prior writing or journalism experience is preferred but not required.

All applicants must be based in the United States and legally authorized to work in the United States. Babel Institute is unable to sponsor or assume sponsorship of an employment visa or other work authorization for this position.

Compensation

This is a paid, part-time position compensated at $19.50 per hour.

Time Commitment

The expected time commitment is approximately 8 to 10 hours per week. Scheduling is flexible and designed to accommodate academic commitments.

Benefits and Learning Outcomes

• Experience contributing to a start-up public policy publication.
• Editorial guidance throughout the reporting and revision process.
• Experience conducting interviews, evaluating sources, and fact-checking information.
• An understanding of how stories move from pitch to publication at a nonprofit journal.
• Published work that can be used for academic and professional purposes.

How to Apply

Submit your résumé (CV), one writing sample, and a brief statement of interest (150–200 words) to careers@babelinstitute.us with the subject line: Youth Journalist – Spring 2026 – [Your Name]

The writing sample should be approximately 1,500 to 2,000 words and demonstrate your ability to research a topic, present information clearly, and write for a general audience.

Application Timeline

• Applications will close on Wednesday, September 2, 2026.
• Candidates whose qualifications best align with the role will be contacted beginning September 7, 2026.
• The anticipated start date is September 21, 2026.

Equal Opportunity

All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, age, or veteran status.