FSU is home to many interesting programs of study. However, a degree program in journalism is missing. I found this odd and a little bit discouraging when considering my college career path, as my dream is to become a reporter.
Now that I’m about to enter my junior year as a student journalist, I couldn’t be happier with my decision to attend FSU.
student-run publications
In journalism, practice is the true teacher. FSU provides students with the opportunity to write for the FSView and Florida Flambeau, an independent, student-run newspaper. Owned by USA Today, which also owns the Tallahassee Democrat, the publication allows student work to reach a wider audience. The newspaper contains four sections: News, Arts and Culture, Sports, and Views, giving students the freedom to write about topics that interest them.
Beyond the FSView, there are so many more student organizations and publications to write for. Her Campus (HC) at FSU (shoutout!), an elite-level chapter, provides another strong outlet for students to develop their writing and reporting skills.
However, if HC at FSU doesn’t work with your schedule, there are many other publications to submit your work to, such as the Sustainable Campus blog and the Society for Collegiate Journalists Newsletter.
networking opportunities
In addition to student publications, FSU offers resources and organizations that create valuable networking opportunities. The Society for Collegiate Journalists is a student organization that hosts professional networking events, like panel discussions, to learn from professionals in the field. Through this organization, I’ve met mentors who’ve provided me with valuable insights into the world of journalism. They also host social events to get to know other student journalists, as it can feel isolating without a formal program.
FSU Shadow is also available for many different career paths, but WKRG News 5 in Mobile, Alabama, has previously provided opportunities for FSU students to shadow a news station, regardless of their major. Nole Network can be used to connect students with internship and job opportunities in the journalism field, as news stations and outlets in Tallahassee often take interns from FSU.
big fish, small pond
Without a formal journalism program, student journalists at FSU often take a more self-directed approach to developing their skills. Through involvement in publications and organizations, students gain experience in writing, pitching, and editing while working alongside a motivated and supportive community.
Many of the student journalists I’ve met at FSU are incredibly driven and dedicated to their work. Choosing to pursue journalism here requires initiative, and that independence often translates into a strong work ethic and real-world readiness.
The major isn’t that important
To support their interests in journalism, FSU student journalists often pair their extracurricular work with majors like Media and Communication Studies or Digital Media Production in the School of Communication, or the Editing, Writing, and Media (EWM) track in the English Department. Some even pursue a journalism minor at nearby Florida A&M University, an option for those looking for journalism training in an actual classroom setting.
However, some believe that a degree in journalism isn’t required to be a great journalist. The degree is often secondary to extracurricular and elective work done. Majors like political science, economics, and sometimes even mathematics aid journalists.
At first glance, the absence of a journalism major at FSU may seem like a limitation. In reality, it encourages students to take initiative and seek out opportunities that provide meaningful, hands-on experience. Publications, organizations, and internships help student journalists develop their skills in a practical and intentional way.
For me, that has made all the difference. Every article I’ve written, every pitch I’ve developed, and every connection I’ve built have been a purposeful step in shaping my future in journalism.
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