Johnny C. Taylor, Jr. Communication Bridge Program Fund

Hands-on learning that bridges
communication and cultural connection.

The Johnny C. Taylor, Jr. Communication Bridge Program, generously supported by alumnus Johnny C. Taylor, Jr., offers transformative experiences for University of Miami School of Communication students. This program is designed to cultivate empathy, build intercultural understanding, and develop cultural competencies through real-world experiences.

This competitive program provides opportunities for both undergraduate and graduate students to engage with communities distinct from their own. By participating, students will enhance their communication skills in diverse environments while broadening their perspectives.

Unique Experiences

Explore immersive opportunities such as study abroad, language immersion, cultural exchanges, internships, or research projects.

Financial Support

Receive up to $2,500 to cover travel and tuition costs for approved summer activities conducted between May and August.

Timeline

Applications Open – Mid January
Applications Close – End of January
Awards Announcement – Early March
Experience & Reflective Essay Due – Mid August

*This fund is to support a summer experience.

Requirements

Must be a student at the School of Communication, currently enrolled full-time and returning with at least one semester left
Must have a 3.0 GPA or higher

Application Steps

Submit an application
Proposal Requirements (not to exceed 500 words):

Proposed Communication Bridge Experience

Description of home and host communities
Significance of proposed experience in host community

Proposed Summer Activity

Explain type of academic, internship, or research activity
Describe your relationship with the agency, organization, or host community

Please attach (not counted in the 500 words)

Include information about the program or sponsoring agency
Brief statement and signature of Communication School faculty in support of your proposed summer activity

Past Recipients

Luísa Ferreira

Advertising Management Major

Cannes, France

Luisa’s first trip to Europe took her to the Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity, where she gained access to industry leaders and ideas that shaped how she sees her future in advertising. For Luisa, the experience provided “access to rooms [she] never imagined entering this early in [her] career” and a greater understanding of what’s possible.

Talia Bedar

Motion Pictures Major
Bracelona, Spain

Talia’s summer in Barcelona pushed her beyond her comfort zone while building her confidence, professional skills, and curiosity. From creating a portfolio that helped her land her top-choice internship to considering a career in crisis communication, she returned home with “an excitement to learn” and confidence in navigating new experiences independently.

Sophia Mazza

Broadcast Journalism Major

Bracelona, Spain

Sophia’s time in Barcelona helped her contextualize her broadcast journalism studies within a “dynamic global media landscape,” with visits to TV3, Ogilvy, and other international companies. The experience “broadened [her] understanding of the communications umbrella” while introducing career paths she hadn’t previously considered.