WDIY's Youth Media Program
What Is the Youth Media Program?
WDIY's Youth Media Program is an award-winning, free community program open to Lehigh Valley high school students age 14 - 18. Since first launching in 1999, the program has mentored and trained over 200 students in audio production, writing for radio, and journalism.
Under the guidance of WDIY staff, students have the opportunity to produce and host their own radio show and podcast, which will then be aired on 88.1 FM, released on WDIY's website, and released on WDIY's podcasting accounts through platforms like Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and NPR's website.
Current Youth Media Program Shows
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Interested students can apply to be a rotating host of one of these shows, or work with WDIY staff to develop their own original show. Have an idea or a current podcast you're doing? Let us know!
Program Requirements
To participate in the program, students must commit to producing a show for a time period of at least one year, with a new show being released every 1-2 months. Potential applicants must also be organized, motivated, and prepared to regularly communicate with WDIY staff about the progress of new shows. Before airing, shows must meet professional broadcast quality, and students are expected to be able to regularly meet this standard to remain in the Youth Media Program.
Previous experience with broadcasting, podcasting, interviewing, or public speaking is encouraged but not necessary. WDIY staff will provide training to students with:
- Writing and voicing for radio and audio
- Interview techniques and investigation
- Use of recording and production equipment
How to Apply
Students who would like to be considered for WDIY's Youth Media Program, please complete and send the following documents to youthmedia@wdiy.org:
- A completed application form available here
- A writing sample (This may be any piece of your writing including assignments turned in for class, articles in the school paper, etc.)
Honors and Awards
WDIY's Youth Media Program has received honors from the Pennsylvania Associated Press (2001). Former Youth Media Program student Rayna Malhotra has also received awards from the Pennsylvania Association of Broadcasters (2021, 2023, 2024) and the Pennsylvania News Media Association (2024) for her work with Teen Scientist.
Support
Support for the Youth Media Program is provided by the Charles H. Hoch Foundation, the Keystone Savings Foundation, and the Sylvia Perkin Perpetual Charitable Trust.