Hispanic Communicators DFW (HCDFW) is excited to announce its annual scholarship program for students who are passionate about the power of media and storytelling! This year, we’re exploring the role of Hispanic/Latinx voices in shaping the future. We invite you to share your vision on the impact of Latinx stories.
The prompt:
You are a reporter assigned to cover a story on a topic you personally disagree with, whether it's inflation and the economy, healthcare access, or another charged or hot button issue. Describe how you would approach this assignment, ensure your coverage is objective, fair, and adheres to journalism ethics or AP Style standards? Additionally, how would you approach the use of AI tools in your reporting process, and where would you draw the line to protect the integrity of your work?
Students must submit a video, no more than 3 minutes, expalining your answer to the prompt in either English or Spanish. In addition, a supplemental essay, 150 to 300 words, will also be required.
- Video – 3 minutes max, submit via link. Acceptable platforms are Google Drive, Box, OneDrive, YouTube, Vimeo, and TikTok.Videos will only be seen by scholarship committee members and not shared otherwise
- Points may be earned for creativity and spirit
- Essay – 300 words max, double-spaced, 12pt font
- The supplemental essay must clarify the points discussed in your video.
- Citations and references are required but there is not specific amount needed.
- MLA and APA format are accepted
- Use of AI is permitted up to 20% of your video and essay.
- Specifically, AI may be used to create visuals for your video and/or to help correct grammar, spelling, and clarity in your essay.
Who Can Apply:
- Be a resident of the Dallas-Fort Worth area
- Applicants must have an established permanent address in the Dallas-Fort Worth area as defined by the North Central Texas Council of Governments.
- Visit North Central Texas Council of Governments to the permanent address is within the designated 16 counties (https://www.dfwmaps.com).
- Be pursuing a career in the communications industry such as broadcast, print, advertising, public relations, photojournalism, graphic arts, video production or film.
- Have a 2.5 or above overall grade-point average.
- Be available to attend or have a representative in attendance at the annual Hispanic Communicators DFW scholarship presentation.
- Must be currently enrolled in, or expect to enroll in a college or university by Fall 2025.
Application Essentials:
- Application Form: Complete this application in its entirety.
- Project submission: Link or upload your project submission.
- Headshot: Professional or nice headshot
- Transcript: Upload an official or unofficial school transcript.
- Letter(s) of Recommendation: Submit at least one letter (no more than three) from a teacher, counselor, or mentor, professor, or supervisor.
Selection Criteria:
- Creativity and Originality: Show us your unique take on the importance of being objective under pressure
- Content and Clarity: Clearly communicate why and how you will be objective in your work.
- Skill in Medium: Demonstrate your strengths in writing, visuals, or sound.
- Connection to HCDFW’s Mission: Showcase your understanding of HCDFW’s mission to amplify underrepresented voices in media.
Award Amount: $1,000
Award Notification: Winners will be notified by phone and email!