Student Travel Opportunities
Murrow Global Expeditions
Have you ever wanted an opportunity to study abroad? Do you have a passion for learning outside the boundaries?
The Murrow Global Expedition program may be for you!
Storytelling in Greece & Bulgaria
Summer 2026
May 13 – June 3
Embark on a captivating 3-week study abroad adventure that seamlessly blends education and creativity! This unique program not only allows students to earn six elective credits but also immerses them in the fascinating world of journalism and strategic communications. Imagine crafting compelling narratives and impactful communications for Greek organizations against the breathtaking backdrop of Greece. “Storytelling in Greece & Bulgaria” is more than just a study abroad opportunity—it’s a journey that weaves together cultural exploration, real-world business insights, and the chance to delve into multimedia production. Elevate your academic experience in an extraordinary setting that will undoubtedly leave you inspired and enriched.
Application Deadline
February 2nd, 2026
Contact Us for More Information
Nicole O’Donnell
nicole.odonnell@wsu.edu
Justin Barnes
justin.barnes@wsu.edu
Site Visits and Activities
- Sofia, Bulgaria
- Temple of Demeter
- Chalki medieval village
- Apeiranthos the marble village
- Kouros Apollonas
- Olive press in Eggares
- Visit Delos
- Piraeus
- Acropolis
- Athens Island Tour
- Visit to monasteries
The New South Africa: Politics and Culture in Transition
Summer 2027
TBD
Embark on an unforgettable journey to South Africa with the Murrow College and the College of Arts and Sciences on a dynamic study abroad experience designed to expand your global perspective. Students will begin their adventure in Johannesburg, exploring the vibrant culture, rich history, and dynamic urban life of South Africa’s largest city. The trip continues in Cape Town, where breathtaking landscapes meet deep historical significance, offering students a chance to engage with local communities, visit iconic landmarks, and gain firsthand insight into the country’s social, political, and environmental dynamics. This immersive program blends academic exploration with cultural discovery, making it a transformative opportunity for students from all disciplines.
Application Deadline
TBD
Contact Us for More Information
Gabriella Bedoyan (Murrow College of Communication)
gabriella.bedoyan@wsu.edu
Jacob Lewis (College of Arts and Sciences)
js.lewis@wsu.edu
Site Visits and Activities
- Apartheid Museum
- Lesedi Cultural Village
- Sterkfontein Caves
- Cullinan Diamond Mine
- University of Witwatersrand
- Mandela House
- The Castle of Good Hope
- Parliament of South Africa
- University of Western Cape
- Aquila Private Game Reserve
- Robben Island
Backpack Journalism
Backpack Journalism is a competitive international reporting program funded by generous alumni and donors. Four high-achieving Murrow college students travel to a foreign country to report a story with guidance from a faculty member. In the past, backpack journalism trips have sent students to destinations such as Nepal, Greece, Galapagos Islands, Guatemala, Costa Rica, China, Sri Lanka and others.
Students equipped with the latest video, audio and web technology produce multimedia content suitable for publication by media outlets. Backpack Journalism students experience the challenges and benefits of international travel, may have their work published by professional media and enrich their academic and professional lives.
Examples from Backpack Journalism 2023 in Kenya
The 2025 Backpack Journalism program traveled to Germany to report on the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II.
Qualifications
- Are you a certified student in any major within the Murrow College of Communication?
- Do you have multimedia production skills?
- Are you interested in international travel?
- Do you have a strong work ethic?
If you answered yes to all of the above questions, then you should apply for these amazing opportunities.
Application Deadline
11:59 pm on October 1st, 2025 – Fall 2025 for the Spring 2026 excursion. Click “Learn More” for application page.
Interested Murrow Students DO NOT need to complete the Pre-Screening Application through International Programs. They DO need to apply for the Backpack Journalism Program using the following form.
Rural Journalism
Through the Journalism & Media Production department, Murrow College gives students rural journalism education by connecting student journalists with rural communities in the region.
Murrow College launched the Rural Reporting Project in partnership with Northwest Public Broadcasting. The project involves experimentation with community-guided rural reporting and the potential to improve rural news coverage and immersive student learning.
During the 2018-19 academic year, this project was administered by the Online News Association with support from Excellence and Ethics in Journalism Foundation, the Robert R. McCormick Foundation, Knight Foundation, the Democracy Fund, Rita Allen Foundation and the Scripps Howard Foundation. The 2019 Rural Reporting Plunge is supported by a grant from the from the Samuel H. and Patricia W. Smith Teaching and Learning Endowment at Washington State University.
Check out all the work from Rural Reporting Project students here.
Contact Us for More Information
Lisa Waananen Jones
lisalynn@wsu.edu
Murrow Spring Break
Murrow in Los Angeles
Spring Break 2026, March 13th-March 18th
2 Options – 12 Students, 6 per trip option
Lights, Camera, Travel! is primarily focused on the film/television scene in Hollywood.
Intended for students with a major under the Journalism and Media Production degree.
Travel with Murrow to Los Angeles to learn more about what happens behind the scenes of TV programs, network with industry professionals from scripted series and reality-based TV shows, and discover what it takes to make it in Hollywood.
From Campus to Campaigns is primarily focused on advertising and public relations agencies in the LA area.
Intended for students with a major under the Strategic Communication degree.
This immersive experience offers students a behind-the-scenes look at the fast-paced world of advertising in one of the most influential media hubs on the planet. From agency tours to networking with industry professionals, you’ll gain firsthand insight into strategic communication, brand storytelling, and media relations.
Contact Us for More Information
If you have questions about this opportunity, please contact the Murrow College Assistant Dean of Student Affairs, Sara Stout, at sstout@wsu.edu
Eligibility and Information
- Open to current Murrow juniors & seniors (60+ credits earned)
- Open to Murrow students from Global, Everett, Pullman, and Vancouver campuses
- Must have completed COM 300 with a grade of C or better
- Must be in good academic standing
- Cost: Estimated $2,000 for the 5-night trip, including travel arrangements organized by the Murrow College
- Travel: Students will depart from either Pullman or Seattle and return to these locations
Strategic Com and Sports in Seattle & Portland
Summer 2026
12 Students
Strategic Com and Sports is primarily focused on sports media and promotion, and strategic communication.
Any Murrow student that meets eligibility requirements is encouraged to apply.
Over several immersive days—two in each city—you’ll explore dynamic professional sites, connect with industry leaders, and gain real-world insights that go far beyond the classroom. This is a unique opportunity to build your network, deepen your career focus, and experience two vibrant cities through a communications and sports lens.
Application Deadline
TBD
Contact Us for More Information
If you have questions about this opportunity, please contact the Murrow College Assistant Dean of Student Affairs, Sara Stout, at sstout@wsu.edu
Eligibility and Information
- Open to current Murrow sophomores and juniors (30-89 credits earned)
- Open to Murrow students from Global, Everett, Pullman, and Vancouver campuses
- Must have completed COM 300 with a grade of C or better
- Must be in good academic standing
- Cost: Student funded trip. Cost to be determined, no more than $2,000. This trip is made cheaper if you are able to stay overnight at friend/family’s home while in Seattle/Portland. Would be responsible for meeting up the group each morning. Travel arrangements will be organized by the Murrow College.
- Travel: Van transport to Seattle from Pullman on March 15th, then to Portland. Returning to Pullman in vans on March 20th.
Murrow Spring Break 2025
Students embark with Murrow faculty on a career exploration experience to locations like LA and AZ during spring break. This year students traveled to Hollywood and Scottsdale, AZ.
Los Angeles 2025
Students traveled to Hollywood to learn more about what happens behind the scenes of TV programs, network with industry professionals from scripted series and reality-based TV shows, and discover what it takes to make it in Hollywood.
Arizona 2025
Students interested in sports communication careers embarked on Spring Training to gain hands-on experience interviewing athletes, sharing stories, and crafting multimedia packages.
Murrow College Expeditions
Murrow Takes on the Big Apple – A Student Trip to New York City
Washington State University’s Murrow College is offered a unique opportunity for 12 students to travel to New York City in May 2025. This exciting, student-funded trip provided participants with an immersive experience in the heart of the city, while also offering the chance to network with professionals and visit top strategic communication companies.
Travel Dates
TBD 2027
Application Deadline
TBD 2027
Eligibility
- Open to current Murrow juniors and seniors
- Must have completed COM 300 with a grade of C or better
- Must be in good academic standing Open to Murrow students from global, Everett, Pullman, and Vancouver campuses
