Comments on: Do you absolutely have to go to college to become a freelance journalist?

By: Weirdy with a Beardy

Weirdy with a Beardy — Thu, 31 Dec 2009 20:07:59 +0000

Yes. You have to get a degree in order for a future employer to even look at you.
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By: Skeptic

Skeptic — Thu, 31 Dec 2009 19:36:59 +0000

It takes writing talent, talent that can be enhanced through work with a mentor. Rather than spend money on tuition, I’d consider finding a talented journalist or writer or poet in the area who will coach you. Sometimes, writers give classes that can be of benefit.

Working for a large national news organization can be a soul-sucking experience. It’s the editorial staff and top executives who decide what articles and topics get exposure. Often, it’s the sensational, violent, sexual, distractions rather than true news stories. The Internet provides you with opportunities to blog and self-publish.

Personally, I’d rather publish my own with my own editorial control. The media totally fails to provide stories that help people with their personal and spiritual (whatever that means) growth. Mainstream media provide distraction rather than truth. I’d focus on learning more about what Noam Chomsky has to say about US foreign policy rather than what PBS or FOX news programs provide. Mainstream media just reports the power elite spin on the news.
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By: Ace Ventura: Pet Photographer™

Ace Ventura: Pet Photographer™ — Thu, 31 Dec 2009 18:56:59 +0000

Here's the thing, employers look for a degree of some sort, if you don't have one, they most likely will not hire you. They like to hire someone with an educational experience in the field.
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By: Diamond

Diamond — Thu, 31 Dec 2009 18:46:59 +0000

no just write an articles and turn them in at a journalist canter
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By: tgr1013

tgr1013 — Thu, 31 Dec 2009 18:22:59 +0000

Here’s what I was told…."you can’t tell them what to do with their degree …unless you have one similar or better.",,,also,Human Resources people have to have some way to cover their butts when hiring employees so they rely heavily on the education system’s methods and totem poles (degrees) to make sure they are hiring the right people. Getting around these ‘gatekeepers’ is nigh unto imposssible without a degree of some sort….so, your only avenue would be to connect with the publisher directly…armed with a portfolio of your writing and your willingness to work for next to nothing for a very long time. Try the Weekly in your area first.
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my ancient bullfrogs

By: Jill26

Jill26 — Thu, 31 Dec 2009 17:53:59 +0000

The right contacts, and determination. You should ask local newspapers or radio stations if you can do some unpaid work to gain some experience.
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