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Ask the Recruiter

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Joe Grimm
Joe Grimm, visiting journalist at the Michigan State University School of Journalism, tackles the toughest recruiting questions.
TO GET YOUR QUESTION ANSWERED on this page, send it to Joe. Please include your full name in your message. If you prefer that your surname not be published, please indicate why.
 
 
If you're a student just getting back to school, now is not too soon to start thinking about internships for the summer of 2009. Get "Breaking In: The JobsPage.com Guide to Newspaper Internships." You can download a copy immediately.


Bachelor's or master's?

Q: Thanks for your site, it is a lifesaver and a great read. I have a question regarding possible routes for journalism. I graduated eight months ago with a bachelor's degree in political science and sociology. After I graduated, I realized I would like to pursue a career in print journalism. I am currently in graduate school seeking a graduate certificate in urban planning.

I am planning to be a reporter for the university paper in the fall.

I am wondering if I would be better off getting a second undergraduate degree in journalism or pursuing a master's in journalism? Do newspapers look down on entry-level reporters with graduate degrees, or does it really not matter?

Thanks for your site and your time, I hope to hear from you soon!

Ryan

A: Without a doubt: get experience and, pursue a master's in journalism, rather than a second bachelor's.

A person in your situation -- making a transition -- can make good use of a master's degree.

Good luck.

Posted by Joe Grimm 7:00 PM
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