2024 STUDENT
OF THE YEAR
Honoring an STN student who epitomizes our mission. The winner receives a trip to the 2025 STN Convention in Long Beach, California and $1,000 scholarship.
A student at Cedar Crest High School in Lebanon, Pennsylvania, Finn Royer brings an exceptional well-rounded blend of leadership, excellence, and creativity.
His leadership is exemplified as a founding member and co-director for the Mount Gretna International Film Festival, showcasing his commitment to fostering a vibrant film culture in his community and beyond. Finn has also participated in many service-oriented activities, such as volunteering his time as a buddy to special needs students in his high school, reading to elementary school students, and spending time raising funds for the American Heart Association.
His creative portfolio features award-winning works such as 'Avarice,' 'Kireji,' 'What Lies Below,' 'Me Myself, I, and all the Rest,' and '20k,' where he excelled as a director, writer, producer, editor, and actor. In addition to his numerous accolades, Finn has been commissioned to produce content for the Mount Gretna Outdoor Art Show and a documentary for a local nature advocacy group.
After graduation, Finn plans to attend Penn State University’s Schreyer Honors College where he will major in film and media studies.
HOW TO APPLY
Students must submit the following materials for consideration:
✅ Portfolio Video – A 10-minute max reel showcasing your best work, including news segments, creative pieces, or journalistic storytelling. Judges will not watch beyond the time limit, so make sure to end strong!
✅ Personal Essay – "My Definition of Success" (500 words or less, 12-point font, double-spaced)
✅ Resume – Highlighting high school media experience, conventions attended, training, awards, and future plans after graduation.
✅ Two Letters of Recommendation:
One from your adviser (on school letterhead)
One from a professional (business leader, industry mentor, or story subject)
This is your chance to showcase your talent, passion, and impact in the world of student media. Apply today and let your work speak for itself!
The STN Student of the Year award honors an outstanding student who has demonstrated dedication, creativity, and excellence in broadcast journalism, film, or media production. This prestigious award recognizes those who go above and beyond in their storytelling, leadership, and commitment to strong production values.
Seniors graduating by June 30, 2025 at current STN affiliate schools are eligible. The school must be a fully paid STN affiliate for the 2024-2025 school year. Each school may enter up to two students and a school may have a winner and a runner up.
WHAT WE’RE LOOKING FOR
Judges will evaluate candidates based on:
Consistency & Effort – A proven track record of dedication to their craft
Production Excellence – Strong attention to quality and storytelling in their work
Professionalism – A high level of integrity in both process and final product
Beyond the Classroom – Media-related involvement outside of school
WINNER RECEIVES
$1,000 scholarship for future endeavors
A commemorative plaque
An invitation to intern at the 2026 STN Convention in Tampa, Florida
Up to $1,000 in travel support (airfare, hotel, meals, and full convention registration)
