I do general assignments for radio and print. That means I've covered everything from politics to local arts to technology. On a day to day basis, I do research and try to find story ideas by talking to friends and people around the city. I also do freelance writing for City Paper, which has always been an honor for me. It's a lot of work and pays very little-like 10 cents a word. But the work they do is important. Last year, an article from City Paper forced a judge to resign and forced a stalker to turn himself in.

"Mentors know things you won't know for years."
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Journalism in DC
In a city like Washington where the competition is fierce, the best thing to do is to seek out an alternative weekly publication. Alternative papers are willing to work with younger, less-experienced writers and often give them an opportunity to freelance. At first they will let you write something small, maybe 50 words. You do 20 of those and they'll let you write 300 words. This kind of experience will hone your reporting skills and build your resume.

 
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"To set youself apart, you have to believe in what you do."

On Rejection and Persistence
Don't be afraid of being rejected. I received my training by having articles sent back to me, telling me to start over. When I applied for an internship at NPR, I didn't receive a response for five months. Be persistent. An internship may be the only way to get into an organization today. If you want to work somewhere, walk in and say, "I want to work for free." Most employers won't turn you down.

The Importance of a Mentor
Find people who can teach you, who know things you won't know for years. At NPR, there were producers who let me look over their shoulders until I knew how to put a radio story together.

Pros and Cons
You probably won't get rich in journalism, although some people do. There are long hours and the environment is very competitive. But in today's journalism, you often get to write with your own perspective, in your own voice, and that's a pro. You get to meet interesting characters and travel. You learn about subjects you didn't know anything about two weeks ago. It's so satisfying.

The Salary Range
In public broadcasting, entry level is 35,000. Top brain, 75,000. Plus overtime if you're union.