Interested in becoming a journalist? Journalism is an compelling, challenging and competitive field. As a journalist you will report the news and may work in a variety of media outlets, including television, Internet, newspaper and magazines. Read on to learn everything you need to know about how to become a journalist.
Journalists report the news by researching stories, observing events and interviewing subjects. Journalism offers the opportunity to work in many media outlets, including television, radio, Internet and newspapers. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, as a journalist you can expect to earn between $19,180 and $73,880 per year. The average salary is $33,470 but will depend on the type of journalism you decide to pursue.
Journalism Jobs : How Do You Become a Journalist?
Bruce Edwards, the business editor for the Rutland (Vermont) Daily Herald, states that the most important requirement for an aspiring journalist is an interest in writing. He recommends that high school or college students interested in journalism volunteer to work on the school newspaper, as well as working on any quarterly literary periodical that the school publishes. Edwards suggests that either a history or journalism major would be good preparation for a career as a journalist.
Step 1: Get a College Education
- Although not all journalists have a four-year degree, for the greatest career advancement you will need a bachelor's degree in journalism, English or communications. Make sure you choose an accredited university.
Step 2: Consider a Journalism Specialty
You can make the most of your education if you know in advance what type of journalisnm you'd like to pursue. A few areas of specialization are:
- Newspaper reporters
- Investigative reporters
- Foreign correspondents
- Broadcast journalists
- Photojournalists
- Sports journalists
- Online journalists
Step 3: Find an Journalism Internship
- There are tons of ways you can gain journalism experience.
- Look for a internship in the media outlet you are most interested in, whether it means working at a magazine, newspaper or television studio.
- Join your college newspaper, yearbook or magazine.
- Once you have an internship, try to narrow your focus by picking a specialty.
- Specialties include: investigative reporting, broadcast journalism and newspaper reporting.
Step 4: Fine Tune Your Writing Skills
- Journalists need to have excellent writing skills. Make sure you know how to put together a compelling article. You may also want to practice your proofreading and editing skills.
Step 5: Enter the Workforce
- Spread the word by networking and letting people know you are looking for a job.
- Talk to professors.
- Go to journalism conventions and conferences.
- Attend job fairs.
- Join journalism clubs and associations.
- Send out your resume.
- Ask if your college offers job placement services to alumni.
- Consider starting at a small community publication.
- If you can't find the perfect job right away, you may also want to try freelance work.
References
Fast Facts
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