Student and Institutional Memberships

The American Society of Journalists and Authors (ASJA) welcomes the next generation of nonfiction storytellers. Whether you’re a student exploring a career in journalism, content writing, or book publishing, or a college or university seeking valuable professional opportunities for your students and faculty, ASJA’s membership programs connect you directly with the nation’s premier organization for independent nonfiction writers.

Why Join ASJA? 

The writing and media landscape is evolving rapidly. Success today requires professional connections, practical business skills, mentorship, and ongoing learning. 

ASJA’s student and institutional memberships are designed to help emerging writers build those foundations while connecting them to a nationwide network of accomplished freelance journalists, content creators, and nonfiction authors.

“We’re excited to welcome students to ASJA, where they’ll gain access to resources and our nationwide network of accomplished freelance writers. Journalism and publishing are evolving rapidly, and we believe the relationships students build today will shape the future of our profession.”

— Darcy Lewis, ASJA President

Membership Includes

• Full access to ASJA’s webinar library, recordings, tools, and templates
• Access to the ASJA Student Networking Community
• Subscription to the ASJA Weekly newsletter
• Discounted registration for the ASJA Annual Conference
• Fall and spring pitch clinics
• Eligibility for student awards and recognition opportunities
• An official ASJA student press card
• Exclusive ASJA Insider career tip sheets covering:
  • Journalism
  • Book publishing
  • Content Marketing
  • Building an independent writing business

Membership Fee Waivers Available

ASJA believes financial barriers should never prevent talented students from accessing professional opportunities.

Membership dues will be waived for eligible applicants who identify as:

• Pell Grant recipients
• Current or former foster care youth
• Individuals experiencing housing insecurity

“As a first-generation college student, I know that having access to professionals in the field you want to pursue can be life-altering. ASJA’s student membership is designed to provide opportunity, encouragement, and connection.”

— Echo Garrett, Student Membership Task Force Co-Chair

A Pathway to Professional Membership

Student members can remain in the program throughout their undergraduate or graduate studies and for two years after graduation.

Following that transition period, members will automatically be offered Associate Membership with no application fee. Students who meet eligibility requirements may also apply directly for Professional Membership, creating a seamless pathway into ASJA’s professional community.

Institutional Memberships

Designed for Colleges and Universities

Colleges and universities can provide students and faculty with direct access to ASJA’s educational and professional resources through an institutional membership.

Benefits Include

• Up to 10 student memberships
• Additional student memberships at a discounted institutional rate
• One professional or associate membership for a faculty member (pending eligibility)
• Up to two guest speaker appearances by ASJA members (virtual or in person where available)
• Student award nomination opportunities
• Classroom access to ASJA’s webinar and recording archive
• Career resources and teaching materials faculty can integrate into coursework

Voices from ASJA Leadership

“Today’s students are tomorrow’s investigative reporters and magazine writers. They bring fresh ideas, digital-first perspectives, entrepreneurial thinking, and an incredible passion for storytelling. We’re excited to learn from them just as much as we hope they’ll learn from us.”

— Gabrielle Gayagoy Gonzalez, ASJA Vice President & Student Membership Task Force Co-Chair