KINGSTON, R.I. -- April 23, 2003 -- Elizabeth "Liz" Sanders of Warwick, a graduate student in communication studies at the University of Rhode Island, has been selected as a participant in the International Radio and Television Society (IRTS) Foundation’s annual Summer Fellowship Program, one of the most competitive industry fellowship programs in the United States. Founded in 1939, the Society represents 1,000 members, including many of the who’s who of electronic communications.

After a rigorous application process, Sanders was one of 30 students chosen from more than 600 applicants vying to participate in the all-expense-paid program in New York City this summer. The program provides transportation, housing, and a small weekly allowance. The Summer Fellows will begin with an extensive one-week orientation to broadcasting, cable, advertising and news media. Students will have a rare opportunity to question industry professionals at panels, lectures, group discussions, and networking receptions.

Summer Fellows will also take several related field trips and learn networking skills by attending industry social functions. Focus is placed on enhancing career planning, resume writing, networking and interviewing skills. The second part of the program places Fellows in an eight-week internship. Past Fellows have worked at all four major networks, at New York City radio and television stations, at advertising agencies, cable operations and other national firms.

Job placements for this year’s Fellows have not yet been determined, but Sanders says she hopes to work either in entertainment, news production or media promotions. She is currently employed at Newport Harbor Corporation. Previously she was a producer at KSL Newsradio 1160 in Salt Lake City.

The experience has been a great career starter for many of its participants and Sanders is still pinching herself that she is a fellow, which makes her part of a society that includes Johnny Carson, Andy Rooney and Bob Costas in its membership. "I’m looking forward to this opportunity and I know it will round out the great education I am receiving at URI," said the 26-year-old student who plans to graduate with a master’s degree in communication studies in 2004.