The Association for Women in Sports Media is accepting applications for the 2026 AWSM Scholars program using this form. Applications are due by 11:59 p.m. PDT on Dec. 21, 2025.

AWSM will award female college students placement in a paid internship in one of four fields: sports writing, broadcast production, social media and media relations or four mentoring sessions to aid their professional development. Scholars will also receive a $1,000 scholarship, a one-year AWSM membership and registration for the next in-person AWSM convention. Past Scholars have enjoyed fruitful internships at ESPN, the Los Angeles Times, Perfect Game and other outlets. The winners will be announced in the spring of 2026.

Since 1990, AWSM has placed more than 200 female college students interested in sports media careers in paid summer internships.

AWSM thanks the following donors for their generosity and ongoing support: Christine Brennan, Martin Doerfler and Kristin Huckshorn, Jim Jenks, Tom Jolly, Jorge Rojas, Aaron Romero and Iliana Limón Romero and the Associated Press Sports Editors.

AWSM Scholars frequently asked questions

Who is eligible?‍

The program is open to female college students who have completed at least one year of college (sophomores and above; grad students are also eligible). Students graduating in 2026 are allowed to apply.

Does it cost anything to apply?‍

There is no application fee, but you must be an AWSM student member to apply. Our student memberships cost $25. You will be eligible if you begin your membership application by the internship application deadline. Membership takes two business days to process.‍

When is the deadline?‍

The deadline for the 2026 program is Dec. 21, 2023, at 11:59 p.m. PST.

The application period for the 2027 program will open in late 2026.

What do I need to apply?

• Your résumé
• A headshot: Will be used only for promotional materials if you’re awarded a spot.
• A personal statement: In 500 or fewer words, explain why you’re a good candidate for an internship.
• Three to five work samples:  Such as links to articles or news releases; links to published work on YouTube that show your production or reporting skills; social media campaigns; or any other relevant work experience.
• Three references: References should be able to vouch for your character and quality of work.
• AWSM student membership: If you aren’t a student member of AWSM, it costs $25 to join. Student members get discounts to our annual convention, access to our membership database, our members only job board and lots of other perks.‍

‍Do I have a choice of what type of internship or mentor I am offered?‍

On the application form, you’ll be asked to indicate in which fields you’re interested in working: social media, broadcast production, sports writing or media relations. You can choose more than one field.‍

If I’m offered an internship, will I have to move?‍

While some internships may require the Scholar to be based in the city in which the company is located, several of our internships are remote opportunities.

Are the internships paid?‍

Yes, the internships are paid.‍

What if I have other questions?‍

Email Kristin Huckshorn at kristin.huckshorn@gmail.com or Michele Himmelberg at mhimmelberg@gmail.com.