Q: I've got a twist to the traditional "how to break in to journalism" question.
For nearly two years I've worked full-time as a full-time undergrad student for a set of weekly papers. It has and still provides a great opportunity to build experience beyond the college newspaper experience and internship experience I have. But, after graduating in May, my heart is set on daily work and I don't see myself at the weeklies for much longer. I've got diverse clips from the job as well as that internship and college experience. I'm willing to relocate anywhere for the right job.
I've applied at 50,000 to 100,000 circulation papers. Is there a target circulation you'd recommend? Response to the first few weeks of applications has been nearly non-existent. Am I aiming too high too soon? Any thoughts on how to make this transition to daily?
Kelly
A: Your hunch is probably right. The dailies you're applying to likely want people from other dailies. I would try smaller newspapers.
But it might also be that the papers you're applying to simply have no openings at the moment.
It is difficult to test your chances with the market unless you apply to places that are actively hiring.
But you're on a good track. The experience you've gained will help you get off to a good start through your first couple of newspapers.
