One benefit of studying journalism is that you don’t need to defer your professional development until graduation. Those studying psychology cannot be a therapist until they graduate, and those studying economics cannot be economists until they graduate, but if you are studying a Masters Degree in Journalism online, you are already a journalist.
This brings the wonderful opportunity to build a portfolio while you are studying. You can finish your studies not as an amateur, but as a professional, with an extensive portfolio to boot. This is not to underestimate how daunting this task may be. This is where this article comes in. Here, I will delve into how students of journalism can build a portfolio while studying.
This article will guide you into becoming two things: A professional, who is capable of producing high-quality work, and an expert, who wields formidable knowledge over a particular domain. Beyond this, this article will develop a game plan for publishing.
Become a Professional
Becoming a professional while studying will not only place you ahead of your peers when applying for jobs but will also give you greater confidence in your abilities. You are at the beginning of this journey. As such, you are likely not yet a great journalist. But, you have tremendous potential that, through hard work and commitment, can be realized.
Here is a step-by-step program for becoming a professional while studying journalism.
1. Read and Observe
Many people enroll in a course, attend the classes, absently watch the lectures, glance at the readings, decide it’s too difficult, go to bed, wake up and wonder why they receive a bad grade on their term paper. Do the reading! One thing that is not explained to students is that the assigned readings play a dual role. They don’t just inform students about the subject matter, they convey techniques about how to communicate that, or any, subject matter. You do the readings to learn how to write.
Many students harbor the exact opposite sentiment. They decide that the subject matter is rather dull and skip the reading. In reality, you should be engulfing yourself in as much of the highest quality journalism, and theory, that you can get your hands on. In doing so, you will understand how to leverage different phrases, build a larger vocabulary, and develop ways of structuring your articles.
Beyond reading lots, you also want to develop your eye. As a journalist, your job is to convey to readers a particular perspective on the subject matter. Observe both subjects that are interesting to you, and also how other journalists convey their perspectives in their articles.
2. Write
This is almost too obvious to be said, but to build a compelling portfolio while studying, you have to write… a lot. This is the time to get excited about writing. You can develop a unique relationship with your writing. Write for your student newspaper, start a blog, or contribute to online platforms. The more you write, the more you improve. Treat every assignment, article, or post as an opportunity to refine your voice and style.
3. Improve
While you are studying, you will have access to the best resources for your career. You will be surrounded by teachers, mentors, and peers, all of which are there to help you improve. Develop a positive feedback loop of creating an article (i.e., write!), and sharing it with these individuals.
Most teachers will be happy to help someone who is applying themself. It can be scary to ask for feedback, but there really isn’t a downside to asking (except for feeling nervous). You can build writing and reading groups with your fellow students. Also, do not be afraid to reach out to individuals in the professional community. If you find a journalist who inspires you, get in contact.
Become an Expert
To distinguish yourself as a journalist, it’s essential to become an expert in a specific niche. Specialization helps you stand out in a crowded field and positions you as a go-to source on particular topics.
1. Define Your Niche
Identify the subjects that ignite your passion. Whether it’s political reporting, environmental journalism, sports, or arts and culture, finding your niche will allow you to dive deep into a subject, gaining extensive knowledge and credibility. Figure out what you could read and discuss endlessly, and fully engage in that subject.
A focused area of expertise makes your work more valuable and authoritative. It will also help you build confidence for when you eventually branch out to tangential subjects. You know what it takes to become an expert, because you did, and now you can leverage that knowledge to do it again.
2. Touching the Elephant
Touching the elephant is a metaphor. Six blind people don’t know what an elephant is so they each individually touch it to try to understand it. They all come away with a true, but limited understanding of the elephant. One knows it has a tail, another a trunk, and yet another knows it has four legs.
The purpose of this metaphor is to show that every topic has many perspectives that yield a true understanding of the subject. Diversify your understanding of a single topic by delving into each different perspective.
The Game Plan
Creating a game plan for publishing is crucial to ensure your work reaches the right audience and builds your professional reputation.
1.Start Now
Don’t wait until you feel fully ready. Start publishing your work now. Every piece you write and publish is a step towards building a robust portfolio. Embrace the learning process, and don’t be afraid to make mistakes along the way.
2.Develop a Process
Establish a writing routine that works for you. Consistency is key. Whether it’s dedicating a few hours each day to writing or setting weekly goals, find a process that keeps you productive. Organize your work, set deadlines, and stick to them. A disciplined approach will help you build a substantial body of work over time.
3. Build a Brand
While building your portfolio, also consider your personal brand. Create a professional website or blog where you can showcase your work. Use social media platforms to share your articles, engage with readers, and connect with industry professionals. However, prioritize becoming a professional and an expert first; a strong brand will naturally follow.
Conclusion: Lean In
Building a strong portfolio while studying journalism requires dedication, consistency, and a proactive approach. Lean into the opportunities your studies provide, write extensively, seek continuous improvement, and become an expert in your chosen field. With a well-rounded portfolio, you will not only graduate as a student but as a professional journalist ready to make your mark in the industry.
