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Topic: Journalism w/out Degree in Journalism
| Author | Message |
| madprofessor | Posted – 3/17/2008 2:05:46 PM | show profile | email poster Hi all, I am about to graduate from the University of Chicago with a degree in anthropology. I am interested in journalism but have absolutely no clue about what I need to do and what kind of expectations are realistic, given that I have no experience and no degree in journalism. Any advice on what steps I should take? What does the career of a successful journalist look like (generally)? Thanks. |
| wineaux | Posted – 3/17/2008 3:15:28 PM | show profile Those that I have run into while in the business who write but don't have the degree usually write about an area of expertise. Since you have a degree in anthropology, I suggest you get in touch with your university paper, mag or an affiliated form to get some clips going of the same subject matter. Clips are your greatest ally, so get them rolling. |
| jkdscribe | Posted – 3/17/2008 3:17:35 PM | show profile There are lots of threads on this forum about this. Basic idea is always the same: journalism degree not necessary, just go get experience. You'll probably have to work for cheap or free to get clips and experience. Do some research in books likes the Writer's Market on how to pitch stories and freelance. Educate yourself on how to write for newspapers and magazines. Start small, like at local weeklies. Best of luck. |
| rozwrite55 | Posted – 3/17/2008 4:07:43 PM | show profile The U of C has some great publications so definitly try to get clips in more than just the newspaper. If you want to write, you also need to start blogging. Start a blog about whatever you want your expertise to be and use it as examples of your writing style. |
| summerdeepa | Posted – 3/22/2008 3:05:44 PM | show profile working for free I didn't go to journalism school either. I ended up temping for a few months after college, then interning unpaid for a while, then temping, then interning. Eventually I got a job as a newspaper reporter. So the general advice you're getting is right on. Work for cheap or for nothing, find temp jobs, borrow money from friends/family if you can, and eventually you'll get some clips you can use to land a paying gig. |
