IndyStar’s newsroom internships are an important tradition that benefits readers, the news industry and aspiring journalists. We have nine summer interns for 2025 — students who have shown a passion for local journalism and have prior internship or student media experience. The program provides a bridge from student journalism to the professional ranks and helps the Star fill the gaps as our full-time staff take well-earned vacation time.
Similarly, we’re taking a break from our “Meet the Staff” feature for the summer to give you a chance to, yes, meet the interns. We also call them Pulliam fellows — in recognition of the family that used to own the newspaper and has continued to support journalism in Indianapolis — and past participants have gone on to rich careers at the Star and elsewhere in journalism.
Up this week is 2025 IndyStar intern Ethan Hylton.
What’s your beat?
I’m on the investigations beat.
What college did you attend?
I graduated from Thomas Jefferson University (in Pennsylvania) in fall 2020 with a bachelor’s in law and society. I later attended Goldsmiths, University of London, for a master’s in digital journalism, graduating in January 2025.
What’s your favorite part of being a journalist?
My favorite part of being a journalist is meeting people from all walks of life and telling their stories. I especially value the opportunity to humanize complex societal issues, something we often lose sight of in the constant churn of the 24-hour news cycle.
What prompted you to apply to IndyStar?
I was drawn to IndyStar because of its award-winning investigations team. The opportunity to work with someone like Tim Evans was especially exciting. Even in my short time here, I’ve already learned so much from him, and I’m eager to keep growing under his mentorship.
Who’s sponsoring your internship?
The Dow Jones News Fund
What are you reading or streaming?
My book club is currently reading “Sharp Objects” by Gillian Flynn. Nowadays I’m streaming a lot of F.D Signifier and Hason Piker.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve received?
Focus on what you can control and everything else will fall into place.
If you could guest star on any TV show past or present, which would you choose?
“Barry” (HBO). I’m a big fan of Bill Hader.
Do you prefer dogs or cats?
I’d have to say dogs, but cats are awesome, too.
What’s your bucket-list vacation destination?
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. It’s my dream to play football (soccer) on Copacabana Beach!
Who would you travel back in time to meet?
Toussaint Louverture. An extremely smart, courageous and influential person that everyone should know about.
This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: Meet IndyStar investigative intern Ethan Hylton
Reporting by Indianapolis Star / Indianapolis Star
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
