2026 Summer Intern - Akron, OH

USA TODAY Co. • Akron, OH

8d

About The Position

USA TODAY Co., Inc. is a diversified media company with expansive reach at the national and local level dedicated to empowering and enriching communities. We seek to inspire, inform, and connect audiences as a sustainable, growth focused media and digital marketing solutions company. Through our trusted brands, including the USA TODAY NETWORK, comprised of the national publication, USA TODAY, and local media organizations, including our network of local properties, in the United States, and Newsquest, a wholly-owned subsidiary operating in the United Kingdom, we provide essential journalism, local content, and digital experiences to audiences and businesses. We deliver high-quality, trusted content with a commitment to balanced, unbiased journalism, where and when consumers want to engage. Our digital marketing solutions brand, LocaliQ, supports small and medium-sized businesses with innovative digital marketing products and solutions. USA TODAY Co. open roles are featured on various external job boards. When applying to a position at USA TODAY Co., you should be completing an application on USA TODAY Co. Careers via Dayforce. Job postings directing you to complete an application on other external sites may not be valid. To connect with us, visit www.usatodayco.com
The Akron Beacon Journal/beaconjournal.com, part of the USA TODAY NETWORK, is seeking a summer intern for reporting. This position will focus on general and breaking news, along with features.
The reporter will focus on stories that matter to real local people and their lives, focusing on issues, places and people of interest with a primarily digital focus. Video storytelling also will be required.
The ideal candidate will have the initiative, skills, and judgment to write stories of local interest that resonate with readers, using all delivery forms available including mobile, desktop, video, print and social media.

Requirements

• Progress toward bachelor's or master’s in communications, journalism or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Works collaboratively within a cross-functional environment.
• Experience developing following around personal journalism through use of social media.
• Strong command of AP grammar and style.
• Strong copy-editing skills and the ability to produce content that is clean, accurate and "publication ready."
• Is passionate and enthusiastic about news and content that will work well with audiences on social platforms.
• Is comfortable using social media such as X, Facebook, Instagram, and Snapchat to enhance reporting and promote stories.
• Understands reporting ethics and sourcing.
• Excels in a fast-paced news environment and understands the digital first mission.
• Works weekends and nights as needed.
• Collaborates well with others and can work with a team on the biggest stories.
• This role requires a valid driver’s license, reliable transportation and the minimum liability insurance required by state law.
• Employment is contingent on passing a pre-employment, post-offer drug screen, motor vehicle record check and background check.

Responsibilities

• Creates coverage that accurately informs, engages and entertains specific audiences and platforms using metrics.
• Provides thoughtful analysis of complex issues.
• Works toward becoming the community’s leading voice in area of expertise.
• Serve as a public ambassador for our brand through connecting with the community via social media, on camera, in forums, community leadership, etc.
• Works with content strategist to evaluate what's working and what's not and develops ongoing plans to better satisfy audience needs.
• Collaborates with content team to provide all appropriate elements for stories (i.e., photos, videos, and graphics). Captures basic photos and video as needed.
• Promotes personal brand, the brands of colleagues and the institutional brand.
• Provides great customer service, helping readers find answers and solutions.

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Intern