Do you have a story to tell? Learn to tell it well at Levels Up Academy, a two-week, in-person audio storytelling program at the VPM + ICA Community Media Center. Levels Up Academy introduces Richmond’s rising generation (ages 17 to 22) to the art of audio storytelling. Participants will receive instruction from industry professionals and get real-world experience that can lead to jobs and pathways to college.

Levels Up Academy is free and community-inspired. There is support for meals, transportation, and childcare.

Skills Participants Will Learn:
• How to use portable recorders for field recording
• The proper mic technique and studio recording
• Interview skills and vox pops
• Audio editing with the latest software
• Audio story structure
• The range of jobs and resources in the audio industry

There are two Levels Up Academy tracks to choose from:

Traditional Track (ages 17 to 22)
The traditional track is designed for Richmond’s rising generation and is open to anyone regardless of educational status.
• Two Sessions to choose from :
○ June 17-28
○ July 1-12
• No Cost to Participant
• $700 stipend w/ completion
• Have a completed audio project that can be used in your portfolio or for educational and career applications.

Career Studies Certificate Track, for Reynolds Students
The career studies certificate track is designed for students enrolled in Reynolds Community College who are pursuing the CSC in Media Production. Levels Up Academy is 3 credit hours of that 16 credit hour CSC.

•Two Sessions to choose from:
○ June 4-14
○ July 16-26
•No Cost to Student
•$1500 stipend upon CSC completion by Spring 2025
•CSC tuition support Fall 2024 and Spring 2025
•Have a completed audio project that can be used in your portfolio or for educational and career applications.

APPLY NOW