Create content for top lifestyle websites. See your byline in the glossy pages of a national magazine. Work behind the scenes at a photo shoot. Help carry out the social media strategy for an influential media brand. Iowa State students have gotten these opportunities and more through the Dotdash Meredith Apprentice Program.
The Greenlee School’s partnership with Dotdash Meredith—the nation’s largest digital and print publisher—places Iowa State students in paid editorial and graphic design apprenticeships for an entire academic year. The placements also qualify for Greenlee’s 300-hour required 4990A internship.
As an apprentice, you’ll work 15-20 hours a week with popular media brands, such as Better Homes and Gardens, TRAVEL + LEISURE, Successful Farming and REAL SIMPLE. Plus, you’ll also learn from some of the best editors, art directors and media professionals in the business. Assignments vary each year.
Many former apprentices have gone on to work at Dotdash Meredith after graduation. Others have found opportunities with other prominent national media, such as TODAY, The Wall Street Journal and Rolling Stone, or with advertising agencies, PR firms or communications/marketing departments at organizations of all sizes. Some have even become media entrepreneurs, freelancers and influencers. This resume- and portfolio-building adventure will give you an edge as you launch your career.
For more information, contact Maria Charbonneaux, assistant professor of practice and Dotdash Meredith Professional in Residence at mvcharb@iastate.edu.
2025-26 application process
Apprenticeships include both editorial and graphic design positions based in person at the Des Moines office. Some remote opportunities that allow students to live and attend school in Ames while working with brands based at other Dotdash Meredith locations may also be available. Apprentices must be junior (third year) or senior (fourth year) status by fall of the program year and commit to working both the fall and spring semesters.
An informational meeting was held Wednesday, Feb. 19, from 6:30 to 8 p.m. in 2026 Agronomy Hall. Free pizza was served.
If you couldn’t make it to the in-person informational session, please join us for an online webinar on Thursday, March 6, at 4 p.m. We’ll share program details and answer any questions. Register here. The webinar link will be sent to you after you register.
- The online application is live. Applications are due Friday, March 14, at 5 p.m.
- If you have questions or are unable to attend the info meeting, please contact Maria Charbonneaux at mvcharb@iastate.edu for more details about the program.
