Online Journalists

To explore the journalism aspect of this career while you are still in high school, join your school's newspaper staff. As a reporter, you will have the experience of researching, interviewing people, and writing articles on deadline. If you do layout work with the computer, you will gain experience using publishing software such as Adobe InDesign. Another way to explore your interest in writing is to join a local writing group. Your high school, local library, or community center may sponsor writing groups; in addition, these groups may be advertised in the local newspaper. Contact your local newspaper to arrange for an information interview with a journalist there. If the newspaper has an online version, ask to speak with someone who works on the online publication. During the interview you will have the opportunity to ask a professional what the best parts of their job are, what type of education and experience he or she has, and other questions that interest you.