Some have said that most of your learning in college takes place outside of the classroom. I, for one, would have to agree. Although the statement is most likely referring to everyday social experiences, I believe journalism and communications majors have a great opportunity to take advantage of the many extracurricular learning opportunities afforded them.
Get Involved
Whether your journalistic focus is print, radio, television or photography, many colleges and universities that offer journalism and communications provide outlets for students to hone their skills and prepare for their careers in the real world.
Check with your college or university to see if they offer any student-run newspapers, radio stations or television stations. If you find out something's offered in your discipline, get involved. I don't know how many people I've seen who've wasted this valuable opportunity in school, only to regret it in the end. Even if there's not an activity in your particular discipline, don't let that stop you. The way journalism is changing, being multi-faceted definitely won't hurt.
Don't be Afraid to Leave Campus
If it just so happens that your school doesn't offer any of the aforementioned options, you can always check with the local media. On the other hand, even if your school does offer the previously mentioned options, adding another learning outlet won't hurt.
Call the local newspaper, radio or television stations and see if they offer any internships or volunteer opportunities for college students. During this time, the level of pay, or lack thereof, shouldn't be of much concern. Just as a side note, if getting lots of money is your main goal in life, journalism may not be the career for you. But if you're up to it, just try to get your foot in the door. Even if you don't get any "real" assignments right off the bat, just being in the midst of everyday newsroom happenings and giving yourself an opportunity to network will pay off greatly in the end.
Join a National Organization
Is your school a member of any national or local journalism organizations? If so, getting involved with these programs would be a great resource to help you become more knowledgeable in your field. Some of them even offer great membership benefits. Organizations such as the Society of Professional Journalists, The National Press Club and the Association for Education in Journalism Mass Communication, are just a few of the many journalism organizations available.
I understand that as a college student, it may not be as easy for you to pay membership fees. However, there are some organizations that offer membership for as low as $35 per year. Believe me, what you could get in return for your money, will be more valuable than any fee.
Don't Miss Your Opportunity
I can't stress enough the importance of making the most of your time in college. You only get a few years in school and then it's over and you're pushed into the real world. However, you don't have to go in unprepared. Don't just depend on classroom time to prepare you for your career. Take advantage of the opportunities that are in front of you.
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