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Topic: journalism student seeking advice!
| Author | Message |
| robynone | Posted – 6/17/2007 11:48:18 PM | show profile I posted in the wrong forum before! I'm currently in my second year of college working towards a journalism bachelor of arts degree. I'm debating a few different minors, or possibly a double major in political science (ba). For a career, I would like to work for a daily newspaper, doing general reporting. What do editors like to see when they're looking for journalists to add to their staff? I know experience and clips is a must but what about degree-wise? Is it better to have knowledge of several topics, or be an expert in a specific topic? Any advice is appreciated! |
| Bella05 | Posted – 7/7/2007 7:14:37 PM | show profile Seeking Advice I started out as a reporter at a mid-size daily, and I graduated with a degree in political science and a minor in creative writing. Experience and a good attitude is what I think many editors are looking for. I'm now an editor at the same company, so I get to see all the resumes that filter through. I personally look for a well-written cover letter and writing experience. If you have a journalism degree and your cover letter was thrown together in five minutes, your resume gets shelved. I've been at four different publications, and only a handful of co-workers have had journalism degrees. I think editors want well-rounded candidates, so they often look passed the major to their writing experience, cover letter, etc. Maybe I'm biased, but I think poly sci is always a good choice because newspapers are obviously heavy on political coverage, and the extra understanding may give you an edge. One of my good friends graduated with a zoology degree and her science background gave her an edge. I think you should just go for what interests you the most. |
| HisGirlFriday | Posted – 7/8/2007 10:23:37 PM | show profile Darling, a shitload of people responded to your first post in media issues. Check it out. |
