Robert Niles has compiled a list that one journalist described as “We-could-build-a-whole-new-school-around-this good.”
The list, in an article so aptly titled “Eight things that journalism students should demand from their journalism schools,” talks about journalism students’ need to extend their education beyond the classroom, take initiative, and be proactive in pursuing a career in the viciously competitive field that is journalism.
So, what are these eight infamous things that Niles so passionately believes every journalism student must demand from their school? Well, the first on the list is role models; students must demand access to working journalists beyond the few that the school brings in as guest speakers. A role model often leads to what’s next on the list, a mentor. Niles says it’s vital that students develop a relationship with a role model to guide them on their path to becoming a part of the news world, actually admitting that his greatest professional regret is not finding a mentor early on in his career. Also on the list are:
Employment Contacts- demand help in getting a job once you complete your education!
A Place to Hack, meaning a place for students to explore and test their interactive publishing skills.
Work Experience & Deep Knowledge of a Field Other than Journalism- students should work outside of journalism to acquire as much general knowledge as possible, providing them with a foundation to base their writing on.
Getting Your Name Out There- find opportunities to publish your work online and build a group of followers before you start looking for jobs and taking interviews.
Passion, not Excuses- demand your professors encourage you to pursue your passion in journalism; don’t accept complaints and gripes from them about the state of the news business, and don’t be discouraged by those that do whine. Go after what you want!
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I agree that those would be good tips to follow if you were going into journalism. Even though it's focused on journalism some of those tips could be broadened out to other fields.
ReplyDeleteYour post was really helpful! I'm going to print out this article and keep it on my bedside table! I definately get discouraged at the state of the news industry and the lack of opportunities, but I think doing all of these eight things, especially finding a mentor, will really help me to be more successful!
ReplyDeleteThese definitely are some great tips to lead someone on the right track to journalism. As far as the 'getting your name out there' clause, it just doesn't seem so simple. Those eight steps, in mindset, seem like they might actually get somebody in the professional field of journalism but God knows, it's never as easy as it seems. But I do believe that if done properly, these steps will allow for someone to get a better feel of journalism.
ReplyDeleteI really enjoyed reading your blog! It was very interesting and informative. The tips in the article are excellent and I also am going to print this out. It's always nice to have some good advice when it comes to putting yourself out there in order to benefit your future.
ReplyDeleteSuch strong advise, very nice. I never thought about a mentor, not that I'd mind having one. I think I've a family member that may fit the role, but it wouldn't hurt to look else where.
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