The contest begins at the state level. Winning portfolios from state Journalist of the Year competitions are sent to the national level. Portfolios are judged at the JEA/NSPA Spring National High School Journalism Convention, and winners are announced at the conventionÔÇÖs concluding awards ceremony. The tools on the scholarship web pages were designed for use at state and national contests, but candidates need to verify the procedures listed on the website are what they should do to enter their state first. Deadlines vary per state, but state-winning portfolios must be submitted to JEA by March 15. ApplicantÔÇÖs adviser must be a current JEA member. Applicant must be a senior in high school and must have participated in student media for a minimum of two years. Interested students should contact their JEA State Director for instructions on state contest submission.