By Andrew Doss
(JACKSON, Miss.) – Jackson State University senior Malik Alexander spent his summer as a program counselor at the New York City (NYC) Summer Academy for The School of The New York Times. There, he helped lead one of the most globally diverse and immersive journalism experiences for high school students.
“This opportunity was life-changing,” said Alexander, a Dallas native. “Being able to mentor students from around the world and see their passion for journalism grow in just two weeks was powerful. I was learning just as much from them as they were from me.”
Alexander supervised and worked with groups of high school students from the U.S. and countries such as Canada, China, Japan and Australia, ranging from ages 14 to 18, to engage in a two-week intensive program that combined hands-on journalism training with cultural exploration throughout the “Big Apple.”
The Summer Academy hosts approximately 2,000 students for four terms, with roughly 500 students per term, from June to August. Groups of about 30 students were assigned two program counselors and one senior program counselor (SPC), forming a team responsible for every aspect of the student experience. From evening wellness checks to day trips through the city, Alexander and his team ensured students remained safe, engaged and inspired.
“We were essentially the students’ go-to support system. We weren’t just chaperones, we were mentors, older siblings and friends. The job was equal parts guidance, discipline and fun,” Alexander explained.
“I’m grateful for what this internship gave me—not just professional experience, but also personal growth. I feel more prepared than ever to enter the world of sports journalism and media.”
Additionally, the academy featured award-winning journalists from The New York Times, who offered insights and mentorship to both students and staff, including the “Fuddle Journalism Challenge,” where students explored the city to create journalistic content. The top three projects were presented publicly, with the best one selected to appear in an actual issue of The New York Times.
Zakiya Matory, assistant dean of students and a residential housing director for The School of the New York Times, says that Alexander brought “charisma” and an unforgettable energy to the experience.
“Malik is very charismatic. He is adaptable and worked well with everyone in the school. When he came around, people had fun and enjoyed working with him. He was always volunteering to do extra things to help out, whether it was with students or other staff members,” said Matory.
“A program counselor needs to be someone who is responsible, has good communication skills, interpersonal skills, leadership skills and of course an interest in working with youth and teams. Malik exhibited just that and more.”
Alexander is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in journalism and media studies with a concentration in sports media. He plans to pursue a career in sports broadcasting or production, bringing the skills he honed in New York to all of his future endeavors.
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