Journalism in China with Projects Abroad

  China

• Shanghai: 
Shanghai

Term: Fall, Spring, Summer, Throughout the year, Winter 
Durations of Program: 2-4 weeks, 5-8 weeks, 9-12 weeks and 3-6 months
Typical Duration of Program: 5-8 weeks
Dates: All year round

Description: Volunteering on a Journalism Internship Placement overseas in China

If you are looking for an exciting, energetic backdrop to your Journalism placement then there's no better destination than China. Living and working in rapidly-developing cities will surely inspire you to root out some interesting stories!

On our Print Journalism placements you will gain an insight into the workings of the media in a new cultural and political setting whilst also building up an impressive portfolio of work. Our voluntary journalism internships in China will give you some fantastic work experience which will greatly enhance your job prospects in this competitive industry.

* Print Journalism Placements in China with Projects Abroad:

On a journalism placement in the modern cities of Shanghai and Hangzhou, you will work alongside local journalists on an English-language newspaper or magazine. Depending on your areas of interest, you will have the opportunity to undertake a range of journalistic activities including researching, interviewing, reporting, writing reviews, feature writing and proof-reading.

You can work for a business, entertainment, current affairs, lifestyle or news publication where you will be able to see the many facets of life in Shanghai or Hangzhou and experience all that the city has to offer. Wherever you work, you are sure to become popular with other volunteers once you receive your press pass, and can attend event launches and grand openings!

Your workload will be very varied; you may be asked to give an outsider's view on Shanghai culture one day and then find yourself interviewing an important public figure the next. Always be prepared to work independently but never be afraid to ask questions; your colleagues will be busy people but experience has told us that they are always willing to help a budding new journalist! We recommend that you write as much as possible during your placement as you never know how many of your articles will be published.

Volunteers have constant support whilst on their placement from an English-speaking supervisor. And of course, the Projects Abroad staff are always on-hand to provide you with necessary support.

On the placement your input will be greatly encouraged and appreciated. Your colleagues may also be keen to take advantage of you as a native English speaker, so be prepared to give some informal English lessons!

"The responsibility I was given at my journalism placement was completely unexpected. The opportunities I had in Shanghai have helped my career immensely".
Richard Fisher - Journalism volunteer in China

Highlights: Volunteer Travel and Tourism in China

There are many attractions to experience and travel to on your days off. Shanghai is developing so rapidly that something interesting is always going on, as old and new worlds come together. The city contains well-stocked museums, and a visit to the Yu Yuan gardens is essential. Take a boat trip on the Huang Pu River and visit the Bund - Shanghai's famous colonial-style waterfront that has been a landmark for centuries.

The Yangtze river, which is the world's third longest waterway, is also easily accessible. Commonly known as the Chang Jiang (Long River), take heed of the saying 'If you haven't travelled up Chang Jiang, you haven't been anywhere.'

Unsurprisingly, given its size and history, China has World Heritage sites in abundance. The Great Wall and the Terra-Cotta Army are attractions worth a visit once your volunteer work is over. But don't overlook the many other palaces, scenic passes, ancient cities, monuments, temples and carvings that have been given global recognition for their beauty and importance.

The lakeshore of Hangzhou, the gardens of Suzhou, the beaches of Putuoshan; all of these offer a break from the city buzz. Find time to go off the beaten track, too. Trek the silk route; visit a Buddhist monastery. The Chinese countryside will show you how vastly different rural life is compared with the world that is emerging from the urban streets.

Possibilities and opportunities for you in China are as wide ranging as the country itself!

Qualifications: No experience or qualifications are required. You also need no knowledge of the language either as the Newspaper is an English-language publication.

Cost in US$: From US$3,895 up

Experience Required: no

Typical Volunteer: Open-minded with a desire to travel.

Age Range: 16-70

This Program is open to Worldwide Participants. This Program is also open to Couples and Individuals

Participants Travel to China Independently or in Groups

Typically Participants Work Independently or in Groups

Application Process Involves:

• Letters of Reference
• Written Application

Post Services Include:

• Exit Debriefing Abroad
• Re-Entry Debriefing at Home

Projects Abroad's Mission Statement: As part of the global economy, Projects Abroad helps create local employment wherever we send volunteers. Employing local staff overseas and using their talents and knowledge is important to us. This local knowledge and support enables the organization to channel the skills of the volunteers from more affluent countries to regions around the world where they are needed. Volunteers also learn from their placements and the people they meet, and they gain experience in a chosen field. In the 21st century, we believe this mutual respect is what cultural exchange is all about.

Year Founded: 1992