FAQ

AIR's 2012 New Voices Scholarship
at Third Coast

Who is eligible to apply?
Minority producers, either station-based or independent, are eligible to apply. All ages are welcome, but applicants younger than 18 will need an adult sponsor to sign off on their application and handle funds on their behalf. All applicants must work in the United States and its territories.

What do you mean by "minority"?
We are looking to attract individuals who represent groups that are typically under-represented at the Third Coast Conference and in the industry in general. This could be based, of course, on a candidate's ethnic or racial background. It could be that they come from a particular socio-economic group, or any number of categories.  It will, ultimately, be up to the judgment of those screening applications to select candidates who bring a new and diverse mix to the conference and to the industry in general.

How much experience are applicants expected to have?
There is no specific requirement in terms of number of years of experience, but we will be especially interested in producers attending Third Coast for the first time and are relatively new to working in public media.

What is the total cost of the conference?
The cost varies, based on your geography, but Third Coast generally estimates the cost at $1600 if you take a single hotel room, and spend $300 on your flight. The early bird registration rate for AIR members is $395 until August 15; we've secured this discounted rate for selected scholarship recipients as well.

Is there anything I need to do if I am awarded a scholarship?
Yes. AIR requires you to attend several specific events at the conference. They include, at this time, AIR's Speed Meet on Friday, October 5 from 3 - 4:30 PM; a New Voice "mixer," on Friday before the opening reception; and a dedicated session at the conference (details to be determined). All fun. You will also be required to send AIR a brief report on your experience at the conference (750 – 1000 words) by November 1. If you are chosen for a scholarship, you will be given specific instructions on what to include in the report at that time.

When will I know if I received a scholarship or not?
Final announcements will be made by early September.

If I am awarded a scholarship, when will I receive my funds?
Funding will be disbursed after the conference, as a reimbursement, 30 days after you submit a brief report on your experience at the conference and an invoice.

Learn more and apply.

For more information on the 2012 Third Coast Conference please visit Third Coast's website.

Funding for AIR's 2012 New Voices Scholarships comes from CPB, the Corporation for Public Broadcasting.