Scholastic journalism conventions and conferences bring together teachers, students and industry experts to explore different aspects of journalism and enhance students’ skills. There are national, state and regional conventions planned throughout the fall around the country.

“The value of in-person instruction cannot be overstated,” said Kelly Furnas, Executive Director of the Journalism Education Association. “Being able to see what your peers and colleagues are doing all around the country in scholastic journalism really adds value to the instruction that students are getting at school.”

Here’s a closer look at two of the larger conventions scheduled in the next couple of months:

JEA/NSPA Fall National High School Journalism Convention

The event will take place in Washington, D.C., which allows students to learn about the industry in one of the top destinations for aspiring journalists. This year’s convention boasts keynote speakers Bob Woodward of The Washington Post and Jay Harris of ESPN. Other featured speakers include Christine Brennan of USA Today, First Amendment advocate Mary Beth Tinker, and Hari Sreenivasan of PBS.

Students will have the opportunity to work in small groups with experts in areas from cartooning to public relations to media law and beyond. Students and advisers can also visit some of the renowned D.C. media institutions, such as the National Press Club and The Washington Post.

“The speakers from area news outlets really enhance the program,” Furnas said. “Giving students the opportunity to see real newsrooms in operation is part of our mission to expose students to what it’s like to be a professional journalist.”

The early registration deadline is Oct. 16; registering by that date reduces fees by $10.

Columbia Scholastic Press Association Fall Conference

The fall conference is planned Nov. 3 on Columbia University’s campus. Accomplished advisers and industry experts will host sessions and discussions for both students and teachers. Conference sessions will address writing and editing, staff dynamics, design, reporting on special areas, law and ethics. Registration is already open, and the deadline is Oct. 24.