Thursday, May 6, 2010

Journalism in my nutshell

During the semester there was a time where I felt panic stricken, my story was falling apart. The way I had understood things wasn't necessarily reality. I had a great story idea that crumbed before my eyes. I had never felt that way before but now I realize that these feelings are what reporters and writers go through every day. This lead gone bad feeling is a slice of regularity for beat reporters.

There were many experiences as a journalism major that taught me about real writing and editing, the stuff people make their living from. Then there were other classes where I felt like I was wasting my money and time. Such is life, a mix of the good and bad. Practice makes perfect. So, the more writing and editing of any kind the better. My advice to the high school junior's out there who don't want to work in construction or in a restaurant forever: Take a typing class. I know it sounds like a horrible idea at the time, but do it.

Pursuing an internship was one of my highlights as a journalism major. It gave me a glimpse into day-to-day business realities, web analytics and other fascinating realms. I learned that new ideas are brain candy and they can really change your future.