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No Application Fee

Apply to be a Summiteer

This is a competitive selection process.

We're looking for exceptional young leaders who are ready to challenge themselves, argue multiple perspectives, and become part of an elite group of civic changemakers. Only the most dedicated applicants will be chosen to join Teen Summit 2.0: The Remix.

Submit your strongest application, limited spots available.

You CANNOT attend casting without completing ALL required forms:

  • This Summiteer Application
  • Signed Participant Release Form (e-signature accepted)
  • Parental Consent (if under 18)

No exceptions, incomplete submissions will not be admitted to auditions.

Download Official Participant Release Form (.doc)

E-signature accepted, submit online or email to staff@teensummit2.net

Applications Are Now Closed

Thank you for your interest in Teen Summit 2.0: The Remix.

Our 21 Summiteers have been selected and casting is complete. Follow us on social media for updates on the show.

Applications Are Now Closed

The form below is for reference only. Editing, uploads, recording, draft saving and submission are unavailable while applications are closed. No reopening date has been announced here.

Application Progress0 of 5 sections

Student Information

How would you like to be referred to?

About This Application

This application has two components: your Letter of Interest and a comprehensive survey. You may notice some questions overlap between sections, this is purposeful. We want to understand your authentic voice from multiple angles. Take your time and be thoughtful with each response.

Parent/Guardian Information

Your parent/guardian will receive program updates, consent verification, and casting information at this email address. This is mandatory for all applicants regardless of age.

Letter of Interest

Your Story Matters

This is your chance to share who you are beyond grades and activities. Be authentic, thoughtful, and specific. Tell us what makes you unique.

Share your story, background, interests, and what drives you. Be authentic.

What unique perspective, skill, or energy will you bring to elevate this platform?

Photo & Documents

Important:

  • All uploads should be clear and professional
  • Accepted formats: JPG, PNG for images; PDF for documents
  • Maximum file size: 1GB per file

Required: Upload a clear, recent photo of yourself. This will NOT be used publicly without your permission.

Upload a PDF showing either: job experience OR academic initiatives, sports, clubs, and afterschool activities.

Optional: Record a 90-second video introducing yourself. This helps us see your personality but is not required to submit your application.

Upload a Video File

Upload a pre-recorded video (MP4, MOV, or WebM, max 100MB). This is the easiest option for mobile users.

Or record using your device camera:

90-Second Screen Test

Record yourself to test your camera and audio setup

Camera Test Required

Record a 90-second video introducing yourself. This helps us test your camera and audio quality before casting calls.

Camera required
Microphone required
90 seconds max

Tips for a great screen test:

  • •Find a quiet, well-lit space facing a window or light source
  • •Position your camera at eye level with your face clearly visible
  • •Speak clearly and introduce yourself naturally
  • •Share briefly why you're interested in Teen Summit

Parent/Guardian Survey & Commitment

For Parents/Guardians to Complete:

Please discuss these questions with your teen and provide honest responses about your family's ability to support their participation in this program.

Program Commitment Schedule

Production Period: March - May 2026

Filming Days: Thursdays 4:00 to 8:00 PM

Time Commitment: Approximately 8-12 hours per week during production

Location: WILL Illinois Public Media Station, 300 N. Goodwin Ave, Urbana, IL

Please confirm your understanding and any concerns.

(e.g., attendance, encouragement, flexibility with schedule)

Filming location: University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign campus

(e.g., homework flexibility, scheduling around exams)

Name, relationship, phone number (if different from above)

Any allergies, medical conditions, or dietary restrictions we should know about?

Do you require any disability-related accommodations to fully participate in the program? We are committed to providing reasonable accommodations in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Please describe any accommodations needed for participation in program activities, filming, or events.

As required by Illinois law, I provide written parental/guardian consent for my minor child's participation in the Illinois Public Media program Teen Summit 2.0: The Remix. I authorize the use of my child's name, biography, likeness, voice, and performance in the production and promotion of the program, including radio and television broadcasting, internet and webcasting, and other electronic distribution. I understand this program involves video recording, public broadcast, and ongoing time commitment. I agree to support their participation and have reviewed the program requirements.

Program Resources for Parents
  • Program: Pilot in post-production. Broadcast date to be announced by Illinois Public Media.
  • Location: University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign campus
  • Compensation: Students receive payment for participation
  • Academic Credit: College credit opportunities available through UIUC partnership
  • Parent Amenities: Reserved viewing area during tapings, meals and refreshments provided on filming days
  • Educational Support: Access to Canvas Learning Platform and curriculum materials

Illinois Public Media Participant Release Form

E-signature required to complete your application

I agree to participate in the Illinois Public Media program entitled Teen Summit 2.0: The Remix, and hereby authorize you to use my name, biography, likeness, voice, and performance in the production of the program and for the purpose of publicizing and promoting the program.

I further authorize you to edit the program, to make recordings of the program and to use and re-use, the program and recordings of it, in whole or in part, for radio and television broadcasting, cablecasting, audiovisual and closed circuit exhibition, internet and webcasting and other electronic and mechanical distribution of whatever kind known now or developed in the future throughout the world in perpetuity as well as in scholarly articles and news stories.

I understand that Illinois Public Media has no obligation to air the program. I understand that I will receive no monetary compensation for the rights granted herein. I understand that my appearance on the program confers no ownership rights on me.

If by reason of my statements and actions on the program or materials furnished by me for the program, there is any claim or litigation involving any charge by third parties of violation or infringement of their rights, I agree to indemnify and hold harmless Illinois Public Media and its licensees and assigns from any liability, loss or expenses arising from such claim or litigation.

Participant E-Signature

By typing your full legal name below, you are providing your electronic signature and agreeing to the terms of this Participant Release Form. This e-signature carries the same legal weight as a handwritten signature.

This serves as your official e-signature on the Participant Release Form

Parent/Guardian E-Signature

If the participant is under 18 years of age, a parent or guardian must also provide their e-signature below. This is required by Illinois law.

Required for all participants under 18, this serves as the parent/guardian e-signature

Terms & Guidelines Agreement

Please review and acknowledge the following terms before submitting your application:

I authorize Teen Summit 2.0: The Remix and Illinois Public Media to conduct a background check as part of the selection process. This is required for the safety of all participants and is standard practice for anyone appearing on public broadcast media created by a university-licensed station.

I agree to participate in the Illinois Public Media program entitled Teen Summit 2.0: The Remix, and hereby authorize the use of my name, biography, likeness, voice, and performance in the production and promotion of the program. I further authorize editing, recording, and use of the program in whole or in part, for radio and television broadcasting, cablecasting, internet and webcasting, and other electronic distribution throughout the world, as well as in scholarly articles and news stories. I understand Illinois Public Media has no obligation to air the program. As required by the Illinois Right of Publicity Act (765 ILCS 1075), this written authorization satisfies Illinois two-party consent requirements.

I commit to full participation in Teen Summit 2.0: The Remix, including all required filming sessions, rehearsals, and training during Spring 2026. I understand that filming takes place at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and that I am responsible for reliable transportation to and from all scheduled events.

I have read and agree to the Terms of Service and Privacy Policy. I agree to maintain professional conduct, respect all participants and staff, represent Teen Summit 2.0: The Remix positively, and adhere to all program guidelines and production requirements.

I certify that all information provided in this application is true, accurate, and complete to the best of my knowledge. I understand that providing false or misleading information may result in disqualification from the selection process or removal from the program.

Important: Completing this application does not guarantee selection to Teen Summit 2.0: The Remix. All applications are reviewed by our selection committee. Only 20-30 Summiteers will be selected from all applicants.