The phrase “mass media” seems to be a popular term in our ever-changing, modern American society. Although it may seem to be an intimidating concept, it essentially refers to any form of media designed to reach a large, “massive” audience, such as television, films, radio, the Internet, newspapers, magazines, books, etc. In terms of job opportunities and potential careers, the field of mass media is one of the most competitive, ever-changing environments in the world, one which employs a wide range of technology and requires intense communication skills. Furthermore, college education is critical, but not always required to succeed. Students desiring to work in this field, as well as individuals seeking a better, higher-paying job, need to be well-grounded in some important information. (www.wikipedia.org/wiki/mass_media)
Bear in mind, you will not make mounds of money the minute you enter the world of mass media employment. This seems to be one of several pitfalls for countless students who choose a college major in mass media, be it Broadcast Journalism, Audio/Video, etc. Whether you desire to be a reporter, anchor, producer, director, videographer, sound technician, lighting technician, assistant director/producer, journalist, author, website designer, graphic artist, video game designer, photographer, or any of the other multiple jobs available, you must work your way up the ladder and build a professional resume for future employers. Speaking from personal experience, your first job title may read “Director’s Assistant”, which actually translates, “Coffee and doughnut/errand boy.” However, do not let such a job discourage you. This is where everyone starts and there is no shame in it. In fact, such a job allows you to show your worth ethic and worth to a potential employer.
Many employers, such as television news station operators, are looking for you willingness to learn and work, more so than an impressive work history or extended media degree. Many news stations are willing to train you in their software programs. You don’t have to know it before you apply for the job.” (Kiyak, Mark: Assistant Media Professor. “Lecture 2”; Fall 2008; Valdosta State University). Odds are that by the time you graduate college, whatever computer software and editing programs you learned to use will be going out of date within a few months. You will very likely be required to learn brand new, emerging computer and media software in any field you choose to enter. For Broadcast Journalism and film students, editing programs such as Avid (www.avid.com) and Final Cut Pro (www.apple.com/final-cut-pro) will not be around forever. Similarly, Photoshop and other programs will no doubt be overtaken by the next latest and greatest software. Be able to adjust to and learn unfamiliar media.
Mass media students should seek an internship in their desired field of study, through their media professors and/or campus career services center. Internships are a fantastic way to get your feet wet in the areas you wish to work in, while simultaneously acquainting you with potential employers. Although internships are often unpaid, the experience is worth it in the long run. Your university or school’s career center is designed to assist you by keeping an up-to-date list of all available job and internships in your local area. Investigate the possibilities and then decide which one best fits your major.
As a personal note to future media reporters and journalists, do not expect to be part of a well-functioning team. In fact, you will likely be your own team. The majority of broadcast journalists, news anchors and reporters are “solo reporters”, in that they, “find, shoot, anchor, edit, write and report” on their own news stories. (Kiyak; “Lecture 2”). Your first job will likely be at a local television news station and, again, as an assistant performing daily tasks for the directors and producers. Upon graduation to field reporter, be prepared to be your own camera man. Granted, this applies mostly to field work as most news studios have technical sound, camera and lighting crews. In addition, studios usually have hair, makeup and wardrobe staffs for anchors, but do not always count on it.
Specific qualifications many media employers first look for include, but are not limited to: an ability to meet deadlines, work well under pressure and work with fellow media associates (i.e. with creative differences, etc.). An excellent online media job search engine is www.mandy.com and will allow you to gauge your specific qualifications in terms of what the employer in your area is looking for.
