I am currently at University (UK), due to graduate in early July with a BA in Archaeology. It is my ambition to become a journalist and put my natural investigative talent to good use, although I only decided upon this career path since starting University- hence the unrelated degree.
As I have no experience in this sector (save good writing and photography skills that I have been working on for years), what would be the best place for me to start? Ideally I would like to end up as a freelancer with good experience of how the trade works (having built up a list of contacts).
A friend recommended going to the local city weekly after graduation and seeing if they are taking on any 'juniors', then moving my way up to the big daily publications before even considering striking out on my own.
Is this the case? And if so, how should I approach my first weekly; is it worth making preliminary contact even before I graduate? What about training and wage in this position?
Thanks
2007-02-28 23:49:58 · 4 answers · asked by Nelson 1 in Business & Finance ➔ Careers & Employment
Don't wait - start investigating now! You'll be amazed how many other students are trying to find jobs b4 graduating, so leaving it until after will be suicide.
Also, as there may be ppl with more relevant degrees in front of you, have a backup plan. You don't need to start in journalism absolutely immediately, you can work on it for the next year. You can also work on a portfolio of work then.
Also, consider some college courses for relevant training when you finish.
2007-02-28 23:55:45 · answer #1 · answered by cuddles_gb 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
That's about the sum of it yes, wages are going to be low but with graduate and good degree you may do a little better. Consider doing work for the student rag, or see if there's anything going at the local free paper. Training from what I can work out some Friends are freelance jouno's is kinda of bit grey you get a name for yourself then get promoted. there is nothing to stop you doing a bit of freelance on the side but you really do need to build up the contacts.
2007-02-28 23:57:34 · answer #2 · answered by pete m 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Since you have studied archaeology, you may want to see about hooking up with a trade magazine and get some writing experience on your resume. This will also get you in contact with people where you can do some freelancing.
2007-03-01 00:14:15 · answer #3 · answered by Mrs. Goddess 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Do you have a University publication that you could get involved with - that would be a good start and get you (potentially) lots of the right experience. Otherwise how about local free newspapers and leaflets in the area where you live - you could review films, art shows and the like? Do an internet search and good luck!
2007-02-28 23:54:41 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋