Entry-Level Positions For Aspiring Journalists
Ava, a journalist at ABC 10News KGTV, highlights that entry-level positions often begin in "the middle of nowhere," requiring individuals to "do everything" and learn broadly. Opportunities like internships and roles such as producer, photographer, or floor director in smaller markets offer valuable experience, often leading to MMJ/reporter positions which serve as a common starting point for on-air careers.
Entry-Level Jobs, Networking, Internships, Local News, Relocation
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Ava Kershner
Journalist
ABC 10News KGTV
Cal Poly, Cuesta College, Hancock College, Cal State Northridge
N/A
Creative Writing, Journalism
Arts, Entertainment & Media
Communication and Marketing
Honors Student, Worked 20+ Hours in School, Transfer Student
Video Highlights
1. Entry-level positions in journalism often start in smaller markets, requiring relocation but offering diverse experience.
2. Internships are crucial, providing valuable hands-on experience and potential for early career advancement. Local news stations near colleges often offer internship opportunities.
3. Roles such as producer, photographer, and floor director provide excellent entry points, offering a wide range of skills and understanding of news production before transitioning to on-air reporting.
Transcript
What entry-level positions are there in this field that an undergraduate college student might consider?
I know a lot of people who worked as a producer before they even graduated college. Smaller markets often struggle to find producers, as many people want to be on camera.
Having the skills of a producer can be eye-opening for a reporter. It reveals a whole other side of the industry and makes you a better reporter when you understand how much work goes into building a show and how crucial your story is to it.
For entry-level positions, many people start in smaller, less desirable locations. You might move to the Midwest, far from family, because that's where these positions are. In these roles, you'll be doing everything and learning a lot.
For those still in college, I highly recommend taking advantage of internships, especially if you want to go into local news. Many colleges have local news stations nearby that offer internships.
For example, Cal Poly has a station that takes two interns every quarter. I know someone who worked there as a weekend producer before getting their degree. There are many opportunities, particularly in smaller markets, where you could start as a floor director, camera operator, or photographer.
A photographer role is particularly valuable because they cover news across counties and see everything. These positions are great for students still in college.
After graduation, MMJ or reporter jobs are likely the best path for those who want to be on air. This is a common way to start in the industry. Everyone in the industry often begins in very small markets, doing everything themselves, but it's a great learning experience.
Advizer Personal Links
Instagram @avakershner, facebook @Ava Kershner TV, Tiktok @avaontheair, Linked In @avakershner