Journalism's Third Degree...

In a blog written by Patrick Thornton we, as bloggers, are given some perspective on what Patrick’s view on “J-school” is and the winding road ahead that is in store for Journalism. According to Patrick, one should not be fooled into thinking that “J-school” (formally known as Journalism school) will promisingly lead one into an established media publication. There is that slight possibility BUT that chances are slim. VERY slim. Patrick thinks that Journalism school does not equip their students sufficiently for the hustle and bustle of the media world. Journalism, according to him, is not for the faint hearted and that it is more for those who are willing to do more than just string a few sentences together, they should be able to blog , be socially media inclined and work on the web. Where top-ranked J-schools are concerned, it was mentioned by David Cohn that although he came through J-school, due to working part-time, he learnt more on the job than in actual J-school! The link between the two is that it somewhat complements the other. The connections made on J-school are essential but then again, working on the job also enables one to make the same if not more connections. The thing to bear in mind is that J-school cannot under any circumstances teach any individual to have a passionate desire to want to change the face of journalism. The future path of journalism, according to Patrick, is leaning more to being online, for example, journalists having a web site and being on a social media. Patrick mentions that where undergrad versus grad school is concerned, it is a given that any degree plays a monumental role when it comes to acquiring a job. Having a grad degree allows for some options, the step forward from there is experience, this could be attainted through working on campus publications. Patrick states that there are two circumstances where he would not recommend J-school; to improve writing schools and for connections. One, most of his connections did not come from J-school, being active on sites like “Twitter” and “Beatblogging.org” and “Wired Journalists” fueled the engine for connections. These sites will also enable one to pick up skills that will enhance one’s writing ability. Two, writing skills are given way too much credit with regards to Journalism. Granted, good writing skills are needed in the field of Journalism, however, outstanding writing skills are more for aspiring writers, not journalists. Great reporting is the core of journalism.