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How can I figure out which college and classes are right for me?
As a junior in high school, how can I figure out which college is right for me and what classes I should to take in order to work towards a career in journalism and the arts?
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Martha’s Answer
Hi Madison - you have gotten some great advice, but here are my two cents:
- Northwestern University (see list below) has a terrific summer program for high schoolers at its Medill School of Journalism. I attended when I was in high school and thought it was really good. Plus, I think it helped with admissions.
- Journalism is a varied field, e.g., print versus broadcast vs. web, feature vs. hard news, internal vs. external so try to get experience in as many aspects as possible. Start with your school and branch out from there. Begin to build a portfolio.
- Another approach would be to major in something else (not sure what aspect of the arts you are interested in) . You could still hone your writing through journalism courses, campus newspaper or broadcast media, or outside organization. This is often helpful for those writing about science topics, but could distinguish you in any field.
Good luck!
US News list - https://www.usnews.com/best-colleges/journalism-major-0904
- Northwestern University (see list below) has a terrific summer program for high schoolers at its Medill School of Journalism. I attended when I was in high school and thought it was really good. Plus, I think it helped with admissions.
- Journalism is a varied field, e.g., print versus broadcast vs. web, feature vs. hard news, internal vs. external so try to get experience in as many aspects as possible. Start with your school and branch out from there. Begin to build a portfolio.
- Another approach would be to major in something else (not sure what aspect of the arts you are interested in) . You could still hone your writing through journalism courses, campus newspaper or broadcast media, or outside organization. This is often helpful for those writing about science topics, but could distinguish you in any field.
Good luck!
Martha recommends the following next steps:
Updated
Autymn’s Answer
To discover the ideal college and classes for you, begin by delving into your hobbies, passions, and future career goals. Think about the subjects and activities that spark your enthusiasm, and see how they match up with potential majors or study areas. Investigate colleges and universities that provide programs and resources that cater to your interests, taking into account aspects such as location, size, campus atmosphere, and academic standing. If you can, make use of college visits, virtual tours, and information sessions to get a firsthand experience of each campus and engage with current students and faculty. When selecting classes, take into account your learning style and preferences - do you flourish in intimate, discussion-based courses or are you more inclined towards larger lectures? Seek advice from teachers, counselors, and mentors who can offer guidance and encouragement as you maneuver through the college search journey. Finally, trust your gut feelings and prioritize finding a college and classes that resonate with you acadically, socially, and personally.
Updated
Charlie’s Answer
Look into colleges with strong programs in journalism and arts. Consider factors like location, campus culture, faculty expertise, and resources available for journalism and arts students.
If possible, visit the campuses of your top choices to get a feel for the environment and see if it's a good fit for you. Check out the course catalogs of the colleges you're interested in to see what classes are offered in journalism, writing, visual arts, performing arts, etc.
Speak with your high school guidance counselor and teachers about your career aspirations to obtain their guidance on which classes might best suit your goals.
If possible, visit the campuses of your top choices to get a feel for the environment and see if it's a good fit for you. Check out the course catalogs of the colleges you're interested in to see what classes are offered in journalism, writing, visual arts, performing arts, etc.
Speak with your high school guidance counselor and teachers about your career aspirations to obtain their guidance on which classes might best suit your goals.
Updated
Kira Nicole’s Answer
I would highly suggest taking more classes in high school that you are more interested in and finding opportunities that align with journalism, such as writing for your school paper or reaching out to a local newspaper if you can volunteer to write for them. You could also try blogging and doing some creative work! Expand your network by talking with professionals and doing research online.
Updated
Ryan’s Answer
As a junior in high school, there are several steps you can take to figure out which college is right for you and what classes you should take to work towards a career in journalism and the arts:
Research colleges and programs: Start by researching colleges and universities that offer strong journalism and arts programs. Look into their curriculum, faculty, resources, and extracurricular opportunities related to journalism and the arts. Consider factors such as location, reputation, internship opportunities, and alumni success.
Attend college fairs and information sessions: Attend college fairs and information sessions to gather more information about the colleges you are interested in. Speak with admissions representatives, faculty members, and current students to get a better understanding of the programs and the college culture.
Seek guidance from counselors and mentors: Consult with your high school guidance counselor or teachers who specialize in journalism or the arts. They can provide valuable insights, recommend colleges, and help you plan your course selection to align with your career goals.
Take relevant high school courses: In high school, take courses that align with your interests in journalism and the arts. This can include English, literature, creative writing, media studies, photography, theater, or visual arts. These courses will help you develop foundational skills and knowledge in these areas.
Explore extracurricular activities: Engage in extracurricular activities that allow you to explore journalism and the arts. Join your school newspaper, literary magazine, or theater club. Participate in writing competitions, art exhibitions, or journalism workshops. These activities will help you develop practical skills and demonstrate your passion and commitment to these fields.
Seek internships or job shadowing opportunities: Look for internships or job shadowing opportunities in journalism or arts-related organizations. This will provide you with firsthand experience and help you understand the day-to-day work in these fields. Reach out to local newspapers, magazines, radio stations, or arts organizations to inquire about potential opportunities.
Visit college campuses: If possible, visit the campuses of the colleges you are considering. Attend campus tours, sit in on classes, and meet with professors or students in the journalism and arts programs. This will give you a sense of the campus environment, facilities, and the overall fit with your personal preferences.
Consider college resources and support: Look into the resources and support services offered by the colleges you are considering. This can include career services, internship placement assistance, writing centers, media labs, or arts studios. These resources can greatly enhance your learning experience and provide valuable support for your career goals.
Remember, choosing the right college and classes is a personal decision. Take the time to reflect on your interests, goals, and learning preferences. Consider your strengths and areas of improvement. Trust your instincts and choose a college and classes that align with your passions and aspirations.
Research colleges and programs: Start by researching colleges and universities that offer strong journalism and arts programs. Look into their curriculum, faculty, resources, and extracurricular opportunities related to journalism and the arts. Consider factors such as location, reputation, internship opportunities, and alumni success.
Attend college fairs and information sessions: Attend college fairs and information sessions to gather more information about the colleges you are interested in. Speak with admissions representatives, faculty members, and current students to get a better understanding of the programs and the college culture.
Seek guidance from counselors and mentors: Consult with your high school guidance counselor or teachers who specialize in journalism or the arts. They can provide valuable insights, recommend colleges, and help you plan your course selection to align with your career goals.
Take relevant high school courses: In high school, take courses that align with your interests in journalism and the arts. This can include English, literature, creative writing, media studies, photography, theater, or visual arts. These courses will help you develop foundational skills and knowledge in these areas.
Explore extracurricular activities: Engage in extracurricular activities that allow you to explore journalism and the arts. Join your school newspaper, literary magazine, or theater club. Participate in writing competitions, art exhibitions, or journalism workshops. These activities will help you develop practical skills and demonstrate your passion and commitment to these fields.
Seek internships or job shadowing opportunities: Look for internships or job shadowing opportunities in journalism or arts-related organizations. This will provide you with firsthand experience and help you understand the day-to-day work in these fields. Reach out to local newspapers, magazines, radio stations, or arts organizations to inquire about potential opportunities.
Visit college campuses: If possible, visit the campuses of the colleges you are considering. Attend campus tours, sit in on classes, and meet with professors or students in the journalism and arts programs. This will give you a sense of the campus environment, facilities, and the overall fit with your personal preferences.
Consider college resources and support: Look into the resources and support services offered by the colleges you are considering. This can include career services, internship placement assistance, writing centers, media labs, or arts studios. These resources can greatly enhance your learning experience and provide valuable support for your career goals.
Remember, choosing the right college and classes is a personal decision. Take the time to reflect on your interests, goals, and learning preferences. Consider your strengths and areas of improvement. Trust your instincts and choose a college and classes that align with your passions and aspirations.
Updated
Jocelyn’s Answer
Hello Madison,
Did you know that some colleges actually welcome junior or senior high school students to take college courses? It's a fantastic chance to get a head start on your college journey. I'd suggest having a chat with your guidance counselor. They're there to help and should have all the details about which local colleges offer this amazing opportunity for high school students. This could be a wonderful opportunity for you!
Did you know that some colleges actually welcome junior or senior high school students to take college courses? It's a fantastic chance to get a head start on your college journey. I'd suggest having a chat with your guidance counselor. They're there to help and should have all the details about which local colleges offer this amazing opportunity for high school students. This could be a wonderful opportunity for you!
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity.
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James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Madison,
Charting Your Path to a Career in Journalism and the Arts
As a high school junior with aspirations in journalism and the arts, you can take several proactive steps to identify the right college and courses for your future:
1. College Research:
Kickstart your journey by investigating colleges renowned for their robust programs in journalism, English, and the arts. Check out a range of courses they offer, their faculty's reputation, and their experience in your chosen field. Evaluate colleges considering factors like location, campus vibe, student population, resources, internship prospects, and success stories of alumni.
2. Campus Visits:
When feasible, visit the campuses of your shortlisted colleges to get a firsthand feel of the place. Participate in information sessions, tour the infrastructure, observe classes if permitted, and engage with current students to gather direct insights.
3. Guidance Sessions:
Schedule a meeting with your high school guidance counselor to discuss your career ambitions and college preferences. They can offer invaluable advice on choosing colleges that match your interests and academic prowess.
4. Course Exploration:
Delve into the specific courses each college offers related to journalism, English, and the arts. Scrutinize course descriptions, prerequisites, and any specializations or concentrations within these disciplines.
5. Extracurricular Assessment:
Assess if colleges provide extracurricular activities or clubs centered around journalism or the arts. Such opportunities can enrich your learning experience and equip you with practical skills beyond the classroom.
6. Professional Networking:
Connect with industry professionals in journalism or the arts to gain insights into their career trajectories and seek advice on beneficial classes or experiences they had at the outset of their careers.
7. Internships and Work Experience:
Prioritize colleges with robust internship programs or industry ties where you can acquire practical experience in journalism or the arts before you graduate.
8. Personal Reflection:
Reflect on your unique strengths, interests, and goals to determine which college environment and course offerings align best with your aspirations in journalism and the arts.
Regarding classes that can propel your career in journalism and the arts:
Journalism courses that cover news writing, reporting techniques, media ethics, multimedia storytelling.
English courses that emphasize literature analysis, creative writing, critical thinking skills.
Arts-related courses such as visual arts, performing arts (theater/dance), art history, digital media production.
By adopting these steps and considering these elements while researching colleges and choosing courses, you can make well-informed decisions that will steer you towards a rewarding career in journalism and the arts.
Top 3 Credible Sources Used:
The Princeton Review: Renowned for its comprehensive college rankings and guides, The Princeton Review offers detailed insights into various colleges' programs, faculty quality, campus life, internship opportunities, and more, aiding students in making informed higher education choices.
U.S. News & World Report: This publication provides annual college rankings based on criteria like academic excellence, faculty resources, student satisfaction rates, which can be invaluable for students seeking top colleges offering programs in journalism and the arts.
National Association of Schools of Art & Design (NASAD): As an accrediting organization for art schools across the U.S., NASAD's website offers information about accredited art programs at various institutions, which can be useful when researching colleges that offer art-related courses.
GOD BLESS YOU!
James Constantine Frangos.
Charting Your Path to a Career in Journalism and the Arts
As a high school junior with aspirations in journalism and the arts, you can take several proactive steps to identify the right college and courses for your future:
1. College Research:
Kickstart your journey by investigating colleges renowned for their robust programs in journalism, English, and the arts. Check out a range of courses they offer, their faculty's reputation, and their experience in your chosen field. Evaluate colleges considering factors like location, campus vibe, student population, resources, internship prospects, and success stories of alumni.
2. Campus Visits:
When feasible, visit the campuses of your shortlisted colleges to get a firsthand feel of the place. Participate in information sessions, tour the infrastructure, observe classes if permitted, and engage with current students to gather direct insights.
3. Guidance Sessions:
Schedule a meeting with your high school guidance counselor to discuss your career ambitions and college preferences. They can offer invaluable advice on choosing colleges that match your interests and academic prowess.
4. Course Exploration:
Delve into the specific courses each college offers related to journalism, English, and the arts. Scrutinize course descriptions, prerequisites, and any specializations or concentrations within these disciplines.
5. Extracurricular Assessment:
Assess if colleges provide extracurricular activities or clubs centered around journalism or the arts. Such opportunities can enrich your learning experience and equip you with practical skills beyond the classroom.
6. Professional Networking:
Connect with industry professionals in journalism or the arts to gain insights into their career trajectories and seek advice on beneficial classes or experiences they had at the outset of their careers.
7. Internships and Work Experience:
Prioritize colleges with robust internship programs or industry ties where you can acquire practical experience in journalism or the arts before you graduate.
8. Personal Reflection:
Reflect on your unique strengths, interests, and goals to determine which college environment and course offerings align best with your aspirations in journalism and the arts.
Regarding classes that can propel your career in journalism and the arts:
Journalism courses that cover news writing, reporting techniques, media ethics, multimedia storytelling.
English courses that emphasize literature analysis, creative writing, critical thinking skills.
Arts-related courses such as visual arts, performing arts (theater/dance), art history, digital media production.
By adopting these steps and considering these elements while researching colleges and choosing courses, you can make well-informed decisions that will steer you towards a rewarding career in journalism and the arts.
Top 3 Credible Sources Used:
The Princeton Review: Renowned for its comprehensive college rankings and guides, The Princeton Review offers detailed insights into various colleges' programs, faculty quality, campus life, internship opportunities, and more, aiding students in making informed higher education choices.
U.S. News & World Report: This publication provides annual college rankings based on criteria like academic excellence, faculty resources, student satisfaction rates, which can be invaluable for students seeking top colleges offering programs in journalism and the arts.
National Association of Schools of Art & Design (NASAD): As an accrediting organization for art schools across the U.S., NASAD's website offers information about accredited art programs at various institutions, which can be useful when researching colleges that offer art-related courses.
GOD BLESS YOU!
James Constantine Frangos.
Updated
Mark’s Answer
Begin your journey at a nearby school that's just a short drive away. Complete all your basic college subjects there, and after two years, switch to the school of your dreams. This way, you'll have a clearer idea of your career goals and save a significant amount of money. Plus, here's a cherry on top - your GPA starts fresh at your new school. Isn't that fantastic?