So as far as career choice, I’m interested in pursuing political journalism and then possibly going on to work in political commentary or even hold office. As far as majors go, journalism with a minor in political science/ government seems like a good way to go. But I could even see myself minoring in psychology.
However, I feel like I would thrive academically and enjoy myself more in the environment of a liberal arts school as opposed to the big university setting most journalism schools are in.
I guess I’m asking, is majoring in journalism and minoring in political science at a brand name jschool my only real shot at a career in political journalism? Or could I get just as far majoring in a political science, minoring in psychology, and working at a school paper at a prestigious liberal arts school?
Hi–you can major in English at an LAC. If you choose the right one they may have journalism classes. You can bolster that with internships at newspapers or magazines. You can go into politics with any major. Are you female? If so, Emily’s List gives training in how to go into politics. It’s a skill set. Political science may be the way to go but also work experience would be helpful. You could volunteer for a campaign and help with grassroots organizing. Look at your favorite politicians and see what their background included. Understanding rhetoric and it’s power can also be helpful. Politics can also involve numbers crunching as much of it is strategy informed by statistics.
Full Disclaimer, I’m not super in-tune with journalism, but it seemed like a lot of it is about being a good writer, and your work experience. Not necessarily all about the degree you get. If you’re interested in journalism you should maybe take this into consideration:
Traditional journalism is on the decline, so if I were going into it, maybe I’d go for an economics degree, with a minor in journalism, and a lot of internships/clubs/maybe a part time job if possible. Seems like that might leave you with more options in the event journalism doesn’t work out in the exact way you want it too. Econ + politics are super inter-related anyways.
Yes. Internships are critical, too. And bonus, you don’t absolutely require “prestige” in a LAC.
Yeah, you don’t have to major in journalism to become a journalist. Major in something where you can learn how to write well and think about issues that matter to people. If necessary, you could always do a master’s in journalism.