YOUR COLLEGE APP IS ABOUT TO GET A SERIOUS UPGRADE!

Gems & Jewels is a program facilitated by Strategic Community Solutions where we create small, elite teams comprised of a high school "Apprentice" (that's you!), college "Lead Gemologist" (your mentor), and a senior citizen "Gem" (subject).

Program mission: To find a "Jewel"— the one, single, most powerful story that the world needs to hear. How about learning history from the person who lived it?You're not just listening; you're helping to produce a permanent, professional story that will be shared with their family and the community.

This is program extends beyond community service, it is a project with tangible benefits.

•  LEVEL UP YOUR RESUME. Admissions officers read thousands of essays about "leadership." Yours will be about a real, hands-on project where you produced a professional story and made a human connection. This is a game-changer. 
•  GET A COLLEGE MENTOR. You’ll work side-by-side with a journalism student. Get real advice about college, learn from them, and build a connection that can help you on your own journey. 
•  LEARN SKILLS THAT ACTUALLY MATTER. You'll learn how to interview someone, how to use pro audio gear, how to edit, and how to tell a story that gives people chills. These are the skills used by podcasters, journalists, and filmmakers. 
•  MAKE A REAL IMPACT. This is your chance to connect with someone from a totally different generation, hear their wisdom, and give them and their family a priceless gift. It's a project you'll actually be proud of. 

• Curious & Respectful
• Dependable (You show up when you say you will)
• A Good Listener (Or want to become one)
• Ready to Learn

 You DO NOT need any experience in journalism or media. We’ll teach you everything. We’re looking for your potential, not your past experience. 

Applications for the first-ever Gems & Jewels cohort are open from January 26, 2026. Space is limited, and this is a competitive opportunity. Don't wait.

This is your chance to stop being a student and start being a producer.

Have a question or want to get in touch? We'd love to hear from you. Contact us today and we'll get back to you as soon as possible.