I dont know if you are a member of the NPPA...but I would suggest joining. A young photog can learn by watching other's work from around the country. With membership, the NPPA sends you DVDs each year with dozens of stories recognized nationally for either their photojournalism...or editing.
You will see different approaches to shooting different stories...by different photographers. There is no "one" way. Every year, there are new stories to watch. It is very interesting, I think.
There is a brand new NPPA Mentor program, that you could make use of. There's also a magazine (soon to have a new look) that keeps you up to date on our profession. And of course, there is a book, and many seminars throughout the country.
You will see many "styles"...both steady - off the tripod...as well as off the shoulder, and funky. You will form your own opinion ...when to shoot which...and when not to. You will likely learn a new trick or two. So there really is no "NPPA style" per-se.
The NPPA judges are ...other photographers.Most photographers believe, and rightly so, that steady video shot from a tripod looks better...in cases when it is possible to shoot from a tripod. (Shooting a house for example.) So you will see more steady, sequences in NPPA stories... because that looks better than unsteady, unsequenced video.
Your video should be correctly white balanced, focused, sequenced if possible, with good composition. And it should tell a story, (not be totally meaningless or impossible to understand.) You should have good sound - natural sound, and moments that take you closer to the story. That is just a quick overview. There are many thoughts and ideas. That's what makes the NPPA interesting. You will learn!
You do not need to be a member of the NPPA to shoot good stories. But its a great place to learn, focus, see new stuff, and meet other photographers from around the country.
-eb