Getting into journalism can be an absolutely cutthroat industry. It would be easy for me to say to jump into the water and join a publication, then start writing. There is never a dull moment while on the job because news reports are constantly coming in. You are going to meet different people left and right, you are always writing and editing and most of the time and you can receive special treatment because you’re a part of the press. Depending on where you are and your experience, there are many ways that you can get into this fast-paced industry.
- Start Doing Research, NOW
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The minute you start becoming interested in the journalism field, start doing your research on how you can become a journalist. Journalism is such a broad field and there are many pathways you can take, but it narrows down to two branches: Digital/Print and Broadcasting.
Digital/Print Journalism is generally where most journalists work under. This type of journalism ranges from local to national publications online or in print (newspapers and such.) Because this field is changing rapidly, print journalism is starting to become non-existent since everything has become accessible in the digital world. This is why digital journalism is taking the lead in what everyday news looks like and every news publication is now online and updated every hour.
Broadcast Journalism is a type of journalism where news ends up on TV or other communicative technologies. Not only is the news being updated every hour, but this field is more TV production-based. Everything has to be written in advance or as quickly (and professionally) as possible while also aligning well with the timing of the show. It differs from digital/print journalism because broadcast tends to be more conversational to an audience. Therefore, news segments are often quick and need to grab people’s attention.
Both fields require a good educational background with a degree in either English, Journalism or Communications. There is so much to learn about the field of journalism, so you have to do your research on which schools offer the best program. Ultimately, it does not matter which school you go to. However, the bigger the school, the more programs they offer.
- Strengthen Your Writing Skills
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No matter which journalism field you are going into, you need to be an exceptional writer. You will have a number of editors looking over your work before being published. However, their job will be a lot easier if you have knowledge of correct spelling and grammar, as well as clarity and syntax.
Many people will think that writing a news report is easy-peasy, but it is not. It requires a lot of time and commitment to get a story out within the deadlines. I cannot express how many times I would have to write a breaking news story and have to have it be published within the next hour or two. Editors do not want to see that you have a lot of errors in your draft. Therefore, it’s best to learn the art of writing, learn who you are writing for and most importantly, learn from your mistakes.
Journalists use the writing style for stories called, “Associated Press,” shortened for AP, which is straightforward writing for the average person to read and get on with their day. These days, writing in AP style is not very strict, but it depends on the publication, so you should know this beforehand.
- Join a Local Publication or an Organization at your School
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If you’re at ODU, JOIN THIS HERCAMPUS CHAPTER! We are always in the need of writers and aspiring journalists, so this is a good place to start and to put on your portfolio or resume. Network and connect with people that are associated with anything that has to do with journalism or writing.
You can also join your student newspaper and see what they need for writers. The beauty of journalism is people are absolutely welcoming with open arms! They love it when newer writers come in. In order for you to learn writing, you have to learn in a hands-on setting. So, take advantage of whatever opportunities are around you.
- Internships outside school are a MUST
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This is when you are well into the beginning of your journalism career. While being in school publications is still a good idea, you should be involved with internship opportunities outside of school. You don’t have to intern at one of the best newsrooms such as NBC News, CNN or even Politico. If offered, start local (or even remotely because of COVID-19) and then work your way up.
This way you get to build experience and bigger newsrooms will recognize that. As I recall, journalism is a fast-paced industry. Some newsrooms do not have the time to teach you how things will go. It is expected out of you. Also, journalism is a HIGHLY competitive field. There is always going to someone who is more experienced and has higher connections than you, so don’t get too discouraged!
Some good sites that offer internships would be Chegg Internships, Linkedin and Indeed. Apply everywhere and never doubt yourself!
- When in Doubt, be Your Own Boss
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Being a successful journalist does not happen overnight. Journalism may be a job filled with deadlines, all-nighters and endless articles, but with all that hard work you will not be successful that quickly. It requires time management, dedication and communication with people and your editors. It can be a lonely job you are working under. People can give you guidance, but they can’t tell you what to do. You have to be your boss at that.
Many journalists start their own blog or freelance reporting in whatever they wish to report on. A lot of journalists go into writing novels, books or even become editors themselves. Some even go into studying law because of being a good critical thinker and detailed-oriented person. Journalists know all sides of a story, so they have an understanding of the opposition side.
There are many opportunities to take, so take it while you can. If you are interested in writing for us, please don’t be afraid to contact us by emailing Maura Olson, our Editor-in-Chief.
As always,
Good luck, babes.