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Starting your first job after college can be a daunting experience. You may have dreams of landing your dream job right away, but the reality is often different. Journalist Betty Wong of News Decoder believes that your first job should be seen as a continuation of your education, rather than the beginning of your dream career.
Wong shares her own experience of starting out in journalism, working as a news assistant at a small newspaper in the Midwest. Despite feeling like she was too good for the job at the time, Wong learned valuable skills from her colleagues who had more experience. She recalls sitting next to reporters who were experts at interviewing, and learning from their techniques.
For Wong, her first job was like another master’s degree, teaching her important skills that she couldn’t have learned in school. She emphasizes the importance of landing your first job in a reputable news organization that will support and nurture your growth as a journalist. This support is crucial, especially in situations where your reporting may anger powerful individuals or put you in dangerous situations.
Wong also reflects on the impact of her family’s expectations on her career choices. Coming from a traditional Chinese family, Wong initially pursued a career in engineering to please her parents. However, she soon realized that her true passion lay in writing and journalism. After a tearful conversation with her mother, Wong made the decision to switch career paths and pursue journalism.
Your first job after college may not be glamorous, but it can provide valuable learning opportunities that will shape your future career. Wong encourages new journalists to embrace their first jobs as a chance to learn and grow, rather than expecting it to fulfill all their dreams. By immersing yourself in the work and learning from your colleagues, you can gain valuable skills and experiences that will benefit you in the long run.
In today’s fast-paced and ever-changing world, the role of journalists and activists is more important than ever. By honing your skills and building connections through your first job, you can set yourself up for future success in the field of journalism. Embrace the challenges and opportunities that come with your first job, and use them as stepping stones towards achieving your goals.
