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What is Journalism?

Journalism is an incredibly diverse field that offers a variety of career possibilities ranging from investigative reporting to editorial review. Regardless of the specific job within journalism, the end result is the dissemination of information to a specific, or general audience. This can be done through forms of print media, such as newspapers and magazines, or electronic media such as the internet, television or radio.

Some of the specific fields within journalism are analysts, correspondents, writers and editors. It is these peoples' job to gather information, prepare their stories for a particular medium, and present it to their audience. They offer information about local, national or international events. They present points of view on current issues, and report on the actions of officials, executives, celebrities and common citizens alike. The common objective in all these forms of journalism is to relate news and events to an audience.

How does one get there?

Journalism is a highly competitive field, and job opportunities are often hard to come by.

Very few journalists begin their careers in their idealized position. Rather, they begin at low-level entry jobs and over time work their way up.

The most basic and universal pre-requisites for the various fields within journalism are education, an extensive knowledge of a specific field, and experience.

An education in journalism can prepare a student for their career by providing them with the necessary technical and theoretical skills. Today there are numerous schools for journalism at which students can gain experience and skills in different fields. Most journalism schools offers courses in areas such as writing, interviewing, broadcasting and photography.

Schools also often offer their students an opportunity to gain experience through internship programs with various news organizations. The University of Western Ontario for example, offers internship placements at CBC Radio, CTV, Newsnet, National Post, W-Five and the Globe and Mail. The practical and working knowledge gained through journalism schools will aid aspiring journalists in gaining access into the journalism industry.

Education in areas besides journalism can also prove beneficial. Many employers look for applicants with expertise in specific areas such as politics, economics, or business. Having such a specific degree allows a journalist to give qualified and knowledgeable information on the subjects they are reporting on.

While education has proven itself to be beneficial in getting into the journalism industry, it is not the only way. Experience is essential to a successful career in journalism.High school and university newspapers for example, can provide writing, editing and other forms of journalism experience.

Internships also provide a great form of experience depending on the company and the jobs you are given. Most newspapers, magazines, and broadcast news organizations offer reporting and editing internships. Interns usually start with a newspaper, publisher or a broadcaster. In these positions, they will perform basic duties around the office, or assist in covering small news stories. As they gain experience or demonstrate potential in one or more areas of the business, aspiring journalists may be appointed to one of a number of specialist areas.

Becoming a well-paid reporter is a long arduous process. Seldom does a person begin a career in journalism at a prestigious position. Rather, most successful journalists began at the bottom and spend years working their way up to where they are today. Experience is a prerequisite for advancement throughout any journalist career. Experience gained early in life will be an ideal way to improve one's chances of getting a job and demonstrating potential for advancement. Also instrumental in shaping journalism careers is education. An education in journalism, or a more specific field like economics or political science will enable an aspiring journalist to give competent and informed opinions and coverage.

Qualifications

• Excellent writing, editing, research, leadership and interpersonal skills

• Ability to handle a heavy workload and stress

• Journalism education and journalism experience

• Knowledge of a diversity of political and social issues

• Ability to work with tight deadlines in a team environment

• Willingness to travel extensively

• Willingness to take risks

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1. Anna Blogspot

2. Cordelia Fine

3. Centre for Design and Communications

4. Campus Access

5. Kevin Lex

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