# The Undeniable Benefits of Majoring in Journalism
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Chapter 1: The Transformative Power of Journalism
I have to admit, I carry a bias. My own journey began with a degree in Journalism, which turned out to be the most significant catalyst for my professional development—even though I ultimately did not pursue a career in that field.
For those who have also majored in Journalism, you likely relate to the exhilarating passion that comes with reporting. It’s a unique profession where no two days are alike, and the learning never stops. During the early stages of my adulthood, journalism consumed my life. I dedicated countless hours at the newspaper office, meticulously crafting stories, mentally rehearsing interviews, and seeking just the right angle, all while facing the relentless pressure of deadlines. The late nights fueled by coffee, forgetting meals and personal care, created a chaotic yet thrilling atmosphere. Those moments—though exhausting—were some of the best times of my life.
However, the demands of being a reporter eventually took their toll. I had to set aside my passion to secure a stable job that would pay the bills. In the beginning, I attempted to juggle a full-time job while still reporting during nights and weekends, but that quickly proved to be impractical. Waking up just two hours after a late-night story was a recipe for disaster. I reluctantly accepted that the dream had ended for me.
Thanks to my dual major in college, I was able to pivot into a new career path that offered financial stability and a more reasonable sleep schedule. Transitioning into the corporate world allowed me to advance rapidly in the financial sector. Despite grappling with guilt over leaving journalism behind, I continued to write in my spare time, taking on freelance projects and incorporating writing into every role I held.
Interestingly, although I had shifted away from my original passion, I excelled in my corporate career. Eventually, I recognized that my success stemmed from the foundational skills I had developed through my journalism education. I firmly believe that everyone should consider majoring in Journalism, as the essential tools for succeeding in any profession are ingrained in this field.
While reporting may not resonate with everyone, the competencies you gain from Journalism are applicable across various careers. Initially, I assumed my skills in the corporate realm were on par with my peers, but I soon realized they were not. Writing is just a fraction of what you acquire; the real difference lies in the diverse skill set developed through reporting. The traits that define exceptional reporters are the same attributes that foster success in other industries.
The first video discusses the advantages and disadvantages of pursuing a Journalism major, providing insights into the realities of the field.
The second video offers essential information for those considering a degree in Journalism, highlighting what to expect and how to prepare.
Chapter 2: Key Skills Developed Through Journalism
The following are eight vital attributes I honed as a reporter that contributed to my career success:
Section 1.1: Embracing Uncertainty
As reporters, we often faced assignments with minimal details. Weekly meetings with our editor involved her calling out broad topics, such as “homeless shelters” or “emerging tech companies.” It was our responsibility to determine the story's direction, who to interview, and what supporting information to seek. We thrived in ambiguity, adept at transforming a few words into compelling narratives, without frequently seeking assistance from our editor.
Section 1.2: The Art of Research
A proficient journalist understands that thorough research is paramount. This skill is essential from day one, involving extensive analysis of statistics and background data. Distinguishing fact from opinion and knowing the right questions to pose during interviews are crucial. Research is truly a reporter’s best ally.
Subsection 1.2.1: Adapting to Change
Flexibility is critical in journalism. Stories can take unexpected turns, prompting reporters to adjust their approach, re-interview sources, or even restart from scratch—all under tight deadlines. Adapting quickly is a vital skill that reporters must cultivate.
Subsection 1.2.2: Effective Communication
Communication lies at the heart of reporting. This extends beyond writing skills; it involves understanding how to engage effectively with diverse individuals. A successful reporter tailors their approach to each interviewee, whether addressing a politician or someone experiencing homelessness.
Subsection 1.3: Building Relationships
Establishing trust with interview subjects is crucial. If an interviewee feels uncomfortable, the exchange is likely to yield little value. By combining research and tailored communication, reporters can create deeper connections, resulting in richer stories. This concept aligns closely with Emotional Intelligence, a vital skill in leadership roles across sectors.
Subsection 1.4: Cultivating Confidence
Many reporters exhibit a remarkable level of fearlessness. Engaging with strangers, asking challenging questions, and navigating uncomfortable situations illustrates a confidence that isn’t commonly found in many other fields. This confidence is essential for overcoming obstacles in various aspects of life.
Subsection 1.5: Mastering Time Management
Deadlines are a journalist's reality. They dictate the pace at which stories must be completed, especially for time-sensitive content. Effective time management is crucial, and reporters learn to prioritize and make sacrifices to meet these deadlines.
Subsection 1.6: Writing Proficiency
The most recognizable skill among journalists is undoubtedly writing. Reporters have the ability to distill complex subjects into accessible narratives, supporting their stories with credible sources and data. Their writing adheres to the journalistic principles of who, what, when, where, why, and how.
While I’ve highlighted eight core attributes, there are many more that constitute the essence of journalism. Reviewing this list, it’s clear that these are qualities any leader would desire in their team—regardless of the industry.
Journalism equips individuals with the soft skills that organizations strive to instill in their employees, often investing years in that training. My two decades in the corporate world have allowed me to leverage these skills to stand out. Although I sometimes long for my reporting days, the lessons learned continue to benefit me daily, enhancing my performance in every role I undertake.