How to Become a Journalist

Instructions

1.
1

Choose the right college. Most working journalists went to a journalism school and got a journalism degree. While some professional journalists got communication degrees and even English degrees, a degree in journalism goes a long way toward getting a good job. Choose an accredited school that not only offers journalism degree, but a place to practice your craft.
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2

Decide which type of journalism you're going to pursue. Journalists work in all types of media including newspapers, magazines, photo, television and online. Different types of journalists do different things and make different money. You should be able to choose which type of journalism you're passionate about while in school.
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3

Get an internship. Most professional journalists had at least one internship while they were in school. While that might not be the place you end up working, it will provide real-world experience and give you an in at at least one media outlet.
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4

Start networking. Go to different journalism conventions and job fairs throughout the year. Bring your resume and some of your work to pass to possible employers.
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5

Put your name out there. As you're trying to break into the field, send your resume and work to various media outlets across the country. Start up an email rapport with them. If they can't give you a job, they might know someone who can.
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6

Talk to your professors. If you're at a journalism school, some of your professors have probably had real-world experience. Use them to help get your name out there and use them for ideas on how to find a job.
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7

Scour the job boards. There are several job boards geared toward journalists. Check them out every day and apply to any jobs that interest you and even some that don't. You never know what opportunity a job could provide.