What are the right steps to pursue a career in journalism?

Question

I'm majoring in journalism, but I'd like some advice on where to go from here. What else can I do right now? I still have a few years of school left. I am interested in writing for a newspaper or magazine. I'd appreciate any advice from people with experience in the field.

Answer 1

Broadcast Journalism was my major in school. I worked at my school's college radio station while I was in school to gain some experience. You should try getting a job at your school's newspaper. That will give you awesome work experience!! You will learn what it is like to work with deadlines and newspaper software. If your school has a magazine you could look into that too. You could also check the local TV stations and the local newspaper to see if they are hiring any interns. You might be able to get school credit while you are gaining some experience. You would also be able to see what the job would be like on a daily basis. Good Luck with everything!!!

Answer 2

A curious mind and a broad liberal arts education are by far the best qualifications for a career in journalism.

The best foundation begins with an undergraduate liberal arts education that exposes you to a wide range of disciplines of study and helps you supplement your native curiosity with a habit of critical thinking. Whatever course of study you follow, be sure to include a strong foundation in ethics. Then consider study at a university that offers a graduate degree in journalism.

You can begin to develop your skill in the "craft" of journalism by working on a college newspaper or radio station; a television station that features a college report; or working as a college correspondent for a local, regional or national news organization. As for experience while still in school and immediately after graduation, think about immersing yourself in a local experience. Working in a community in which you must look the people in the eye about whom you report before and AFTER you have reported on them can provide very important lessons.

And, throughout all this, read. Read everything you can, including classics in fiction that can help you begin to understand human nature and the human condition. Develop a habit of critically following the work of other journalists and find models for your own work.

Answer 3

Check with the guidance office at your school--recruiters often contact them and some have placement departments. And ask your professors.

It also will help for you to get experience now. Work on your school's newspaper, if possible, and submit articles and editorials to your local newspapers so you can build a portfolio of "clips"--almost a requirement to get hired.

Good luck!