The Joseph Rago Memorial Fellowship for Excellence in Journalism offers a prestigious opportunity for aspiring journalists to work with The Wall Street Journal's editorial team. This nine-month fellowship is open annually to recent college graduates, journalism school alumni, and journalists with less than five years of professional experience who are U.S. citizens. Established in memory of Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Joseph Rago, the fellowship honors his legacy by supporting young journalists dedicated to producing insightful and impactful journalism.
Each year, two fellows are selected through a competitive process evaluated by senior editors at The Wall Street Journal, leaders at The Fund for American Studies (TFAS), and members of the Rago family. Fellows engage directly with the Journal's editorial team, contributing to the publication's opinion content and gaining exposure to high-level editorial processes. The program seeks candidates with strong journalistic potential, a commitment to pursuing a career in journalism, and experience in writing or editing within a serious journalistic setting. Fellows must also demonstrate the ability to multitask and meet deadlines.
Applicants are required to submit a comprehensive application package, including a cover letter, resume, three published journalistic writing samples, a 500-600 word editorial sample, a 1,000-word personal essay, and a letter of reference. The application deadline for the 2025 cycle is January 17, 2025. Semifinalists will be announced in early February and will complete an editing test and interview. Finalists will undergo a final interview with a panel of judges from The Wall Street Journal, the Rago family, and TFAS. Fellowship winners will begin their tenure in September 2025.
The fellowship honors Joseph Rago’s distinguished career and commitment to journalistic excellence. It was established in partnership with TFAS and Rago's family to provide emerging journalists with the tools and experience to contribute meaningfully to the field. Past recipients have gone on to impactful careers, with roles at major publications, independent writing, or other professional pursuits in journalism and public service.
For inquiries, applicants can contact the Center for Excellence in Journalism at TFAS by phone at (202) 986-0384 or email at CEJ@TFAS.org. More details about the fellowship and application process can be accessed through the TFAS website.
