Stories We Tell

Applications for The Charlotte Observer Summer 2026 Internship are Open!

The Charlotte Observer is seeking passionate and ambitious journalism students for its paid summer 2026 internship program. Based in Charlotte, N.C., this full-time, on-site internship offers hands-on newsroom experience, mentorship and professional training with one of the region’s leading news outlets.

Interns will work as reporters, visual storytellers or social media specialists producing stories for digital and print publication. They will cover breaking news, sports and government topics, gaining real-world experience in local reporting and multimedia storytelling.

Through mentorship and training sessions, interns will learn from Observer journalists about storytelling, research, meeting deadlines and media law. Each intern will be paired with a senior-level mentor and receive personalized feedback, coaching and professional guidance throughout the summer.

Key Responsibilities

• Report, write or produce stories for digital and print platforms

• Collaborate with editors and reporters on daily coverage and special projects

• Research public documents, verify facts and develop story ideas

• Work directly with community members and local leaders to strengthen audience engagement

Eligibility Criteria

• Must be a current student or recent graduate with reporting or producing experience

• Must demonstrate curiosity, accuracy and strong storytelling skills

• Must have experience working for a college publication or professional newsroom

• Must understand social media’s role in modern news gathering and audience development

To apply, candidates must submit a cover letter, resume and three to five samples of their best reporting or multimedia work. 

Applications close Dec. 5, 2025, at 7 p.m. EST. Interested applicants can learn more and apply here.