The fellowship experience
People often ask: What do JSK Fellows actually do during their time at Stanford?
The truth is, there’s no single answer. Each fellowship year is an individual journey shaped by a fellow’s own questions, passions and goals.
The year blends structure and freedom. Twice-weekly cohort gatherings provide rhythm and connection, while open time allows fellows to explore the many resources available at Stanford. Many say it’s the first time in years they’ve had space to think, dream and plan without the pressure of a deadline.
At its heart, the JSK Fellowship is a year to reflect and reimagine what’s possible in journalism and in yourself. For a closer look at what life as a fellow feels like, explore the reflections and stories that JSK Fellows share throughout their time at Stanford. Their voices capture what happens when great journalists are given the space, support and freedom to grow.
Belonging
From the moment fellows arrive on campus, they step into an environment that overflows with possibility. Stanford offers access to world-class resources, renowned faculty and a community of thinkers, builders, and creators who continually push boundaries. For many fellows, it’s both exhilarating and humbling.
Even the most accomplished journalists can find themselves wondering, Do I really belong here? It’s a natural question in a place that attracts people at the top of their fields. But one of the first lessons of the JSK Fellowship is that, yes, you do belong. You are here because your voice, your experience and your curiosity are essential to the conversation.
Belonging also grows through connections with peers, partners and the broader Stanford community. Many fellows describe a moment when the campus starts to feel like home: a late-night conversation after a lecture, a walk under the palms or a small victory shared over coffee. Those moments, repeated and layered over time, create the foundation for a transformative year.
Cohort
As a JSK Fellow, you join a carefully selected cohort of journalists from across the globe. The group meets several times a week, blending structured learning with organic conversation. They explore leadership, creativity and the future of journalism with innovators from inside and outside the media world. Sessions are often interactive, sparking ideas that fellows carry into their own projects.
Fellows’ partners (referred to as affiliates) are welcome at most gatherings, adding even more depth to the community. Many cohorts organize their own dinners, hikes and weekend adventures, creating friendships and a support system that lasts far beyond the fellowship year.
Coaching
Each fellow is paired with one of our directors who serves as their personal coach throughout the fellowship year. It’s a partnership built on trust, curiosity, and growth, and is one of the most meaningful parts of the fellowship experience.
Our directors bring deep experience in newsroom leadership, organizational change, nonprofit strategy and collaborative innovation. And all are deeply committed to helping fellows stretch, reflect and thrive.
Coaching also helps fellows slow down. Many arrive at Stanford after years of nonstop deadlines and high-pressure work. Having a coach creates space to pause, take stock and reflect on what success truly means to them, professionally and personally.