Exploring the Diverse Voices of College Podcast Finalists
This year’s NPR College Podcast Challenge has brought to light a range of compelling stories, showcasing the unique perspectives and experiences of college students across the United States. From navigating the challenges of parenthood while studying, to capturing the essence of a New York neighborhood through sound, these narratives highlight the creativity and resilience of today’s student storytellers.
The competition, now in its fifth year, saw hundreds of entries, with ten podcasts making it to the finalist stage. The winners will be chosen by a panel of judges, who will select the Grand Prize recipient in the coming days.
This year’s finalists represent a variety of institutions, from large public universities to intimate private colleges, and even a community college. Notably, Southern Illinois University Edwardsville returns for a second consecutive year, and Boston University makes its first appearance since 2022. Highline Community College in Des Moines, Washington, also joins the list, showcasing the diverse educational landscape of the participants.
Students from 75 colleges in 35 states submitted their work, with each finalist set to receive a $500 cash prize. The grand prize winner will be awarded $5,000 and have the opportunity to feature on NPR’s programs such as Morning Edition and All Things Considered. In addition, 35 podcasts have been distinguished with an Honorable Mention.
Meet the Finalists
Campus Mom by Emma Vogt, Southern Illinois University Edwardsville
Emma Vogt shares her journey of balancing college studies with motherhood, providing insight into the lives of the estimated 4 million student parents in the U.S.
Dear Panda by Charlotte King, University of Vermont, Burlington, Vt.
Charlotte King delves into themes of grief and loss, recounting a cherished summer with her late uncle in Cape Breton, Nova Scotia.
Dear Papa by Colby McCaskill, Fordham University, New York, N.Y.
Colby McCaskill writes a poignant letter to his grandparents, reflecting on the challenges of distance and the impact of his grandmother’s dementia.
Death of the Narrative Podcast by Noah Kammer, Belmont University, Nashville, Tenn.
Noah Kammer explores the evolving landscape of narrative podcasting, questioning the future of a field he once aspired to join.
I’m Not Laughing by Emily Wyrwa, Boston University
Emily Wyrwa investigates the use of clowns as a symbol in nonviolent protests, uncovering the history and purpose of this movement in Boston.
Joe’s World by Luisa Sukkar, Barnard College, New York, N.Y.
Luisa Sukkar provides a touching glimpse into the imaginative world of her autistic twin brother, Joe, and how their bond is shaped by his unique perspective.
New York 10019 by Syd Walter, Sarah Lawrence College, Bronxville, N.Y.
Syd Walter retraces the steps of Tony Schwartz, capturing the auditory essence of Manhattan’s Upper West Side through the eyes of his son, Anton Schwarz.
People Like Us by Evelyn Rissell, Highline Community College, Des Moines, Wash.
Evelyn Rissell highlights the role of a monthly book club in fostering community connections at an independent bookstore in Burien, Washington.
The Best Player on the Worst Team by Anna Slade, Oberlin College, Oberlin, Ohio.
Anna Slade interviews her fellow students to provide an unflinching look at the life of a football player on a struggling team.
The Price of Paradise by Gabriela Valladares, Dalton State College, Dalton, Ga.
Gabriela Valladares examines the transformation of her hometown into a tourist destination, highlighting the consequences for its longtime residents.
The grand prize winner will be announced in March. You can discover more about the Honorable Mention entries here. For those interested in participating in future challenges, further details about the NPR College Podcast Challenge and Student Podcast Challenge for grades 4-12 can be found here. The 2026 Student Podcast Challenge is currently open for submissions until May 31, with a special category for podcasts celebrating the 250th anniversary of the United States.
For those looking to start their own podcast journey, NPR’s Sound Advice page offers resources and tutorials on audio recording and editing. Stay updated by subscribing to The Student Podcast Challenge newsletter.
This article was originally written by www.npr.org
