In the Know

WONDERWORKS
presents a reading-intensive introduction to journalism and nonfiction, plus documentaries and films based on true stories, and individual/group journalism projects.

16 June - 18 July 2025 | 10AM - 4PM, M-F | Rice University

The truth is rarely pure and never simple.

Oscar Wilde The Importance of Being Earnest, 1895

We live in an information age, in which the facts that shape our world have never been so freely accessible to reading, listening, and viewing audiences.  Means and formats of transmission have grown at an unprecedented pace and today communication-related majors are among the most popular at American colleges and universities.  

You’ll read page-turning, long-form articles and excerpts from books, and each “morning after” you’ll retrace your steps and you’ll discuss the pieces you’ve just read in a seminar-like setting to see what makes them tick as narrative, analytic, or critical propositions. In the afternoon, you’ll watch unforgettable films based on true stories that will keep you on the edge of your seat, while also providing the grist for post-mortem appraisals of how and why they work as they do.

In the Know will introduce you to some of the most engaging and fascinating journalism and nonfiction ever, spanning print, radio, podcasts, film, television, and the internet, interspersed with presentations by elite reporters, editors, directors, and producers and occasional field trips to news gathering enterprises in Houston and Austin.  Plus a chance to try your own hand at reporting, writing, and podcasting.  For avid readers only!

In the Know is open to high school students of special promise and ability who will be entering grades 10, 11, or 12 next fall or who will have just graduated from high school this spring. Admission is competitive – Wonderworks requires at least a 3.0 cumulative grade-point average plus a high level of achievement in relevant core subjects and commensurate scores on relevant sections of the PSAT/SAT or ACT.

Tuition and fees (not including parking) are $1000. Scholarships are available in the form of full-tuition waivers, but only for students demonstrating true financial need. Admissions are determined on a need-blind basis. No student will be prevented from participating in the program because of inability to pay tuition.

The program is held at the Rice University campus, Monday – Friday, except 19 June and 4 July. In the Know is meant to be enjoyable, but is also challenging and requires focused effort and commitment.

Please apply online. To ensure full consideration, applications must be received by 1 June. Early applications are encouraged and will receive early decisions. Late applications will be considered only if space remains available.

If you have questions or need additional information, please e-mail info@wonderworkshouston.org.