Should I study journalism as a major or minor?

Question

Throughout all high school all I thought about is wanting to be a journalist because I like to do research papers, the whole process, write, read, etc. But looking through the questions here really got me thinking of what I want to do. Apparently jobs in this field are hard to come by, especially in magazine and television(thats where I want to work). Can internships really get you a good job? I also hear the pay is not that good. That experience is everything and that they pay you according to your aptitudes. I really want to study it but want a backup just in case I don't find any jobs in journalism. Should I study journalism as a major or minor? I'm interested in any career that allows me to be creative, write, stuff like that. I've been recently interested in business administration because that's what my dad does, but I hate math. I'm also interested in advertising . Is communication major good way to get into any of those fields? What else can I do with a journalism degree?

Answer 1

You could major in English as an undergrad then go for your master's degree in journalism and mass communication. If you could get your master's in any of the top three journalism programs in the country: Columbia University, Northwestern U., and Missouri U, go for it.

Answer 2

I say if you want to work in journalism, go for it. The thing is, jobs in this field, especially now, are really hard to come by because the industry is suffering. But that shouldn't get you down, it should only motivate you even more. And, yes, internships are key. The lack of pay will pay off in the end. I know and have interviewed recent graduates with so much potential, but no prior experience. The person with the experience (internships) always gets the job. This business is who you know and where you've been. Start now. Find a mentor, go to your local TV station and ask questions. E-mail the anchor. E-mail the cameraman. Just do it.

I have a degree in journalism and wouldn't change it for the world. Good luck.

Answer 3

It is cliche, but do what you love and you are more likely to be successful. Business majors are a dime a dozen. Please don't go that direction. You can enter business easily from another field, but you won't be able to enter the journalism field easily if you have a different major. I minored in communication. Honestly, it is a bit fluffy. The world of journalism needs driven people like yourself. Please go for it. You can always switch to business easily at another time in your life.