John DiStaso Political Fellowship

John DiStaso Political Fellowship (WMUR-TV)

The John DiStaso Political Fellowship is a one-semester paid position at Hearst ABC affiliate WMUR-TV in Manchester, NH. The Fellow will work closely with members of the political team on daily political coverage, election coverage for 2022 and 2024, and the weekly political show “Close

UP”. This fellowship is awarded to a motivated junior or senior in college who is interested in pursuing a career in political journalism.

John DiStaso was a veteran political journalist, referred to as the “dean” of New Hampshire’s political press corps. He interviewed four presidents and covered 11 New Hampshire primaries. He worked at The Union Leader and later at WMUR, where he wrote daily for  and appeared on TV for analysis.

In this fellowship you’ll play a meaningful role on the political team, follow in John’s footsteps working on daily coverage, and learn from the experienced team to launch a successful journalism career.

• Working toward a bachelor’s degree in Political Science, Journalism, Communications or a related field
• Experience in journalism through internships or college media
• Goal to work in the field of journalism
• Excellent writing and research skills
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Deadline driven
• Willingness to work various shifts including nights, weekends and holidays
• Strong academic record and two recommendations from faculty or internship supervisors

Please apply on our career site. Include the following documentation:

• A letter expressing interest in the fellowship and promoting your candidacy
• A summary of your commitment to journalism (one page, single-spaced)
• A current resume citing work experience and accomplishments
• A complete academic transcript through your completed semester
• Two academic or professional recommendations
• Finalists will be interviewed by phone and either in-person or via video conference

For the fall fellowship, applications are due by June 15th. For the spring fellowship, applications are due by September 15th. Decisions regarding fall selection will be made in July and spring decisions in October.

Hearst Television (HTV) owns and operates 35 television and two radio stations serving 27 media markets across 39 states, reaching over 22 million U.S. television households. HTV is recognized as one of the industry's premier broadcasting companies and has been honored with numerous awards for distinguished journalism, industry innovation, and community service.