Do you have an eye for detail and strong analytical skills?
Are you curious and adaptable, with a passion for storytelling?
Photo by Michael Fousert on UnsplashIf so, the life of a news reporter might be the right path for you! Learn more about this role and see if it's the right fit.
What does a news reporter do?
News reporters keep the public up to date with events by investigating, gathering information, and writing stories.
News reporters present information through different media outlets such as newspapers, magazines, television, radio or digital media platforms.
They have to meet tight deadlines and present objective information.
Did you know?
"The first and only newspaper of the ancient world was founded by Julius Caesar in 59 BCE. It was called Acta Diurna — Events of the Day."
What does a typical day at work look like?
Where you work and your role may affect your daily routine. For example:
Business reporters talk about economic and financial news, like changes in the stock market, company earnings, and mergers and acquisitions. They research the economy and financial trends.
Sports reporters cover stories and events about sports from the professional level to high school and college sports. They go to games, talk to players and coaches, and analyze sports-related subjects.
Investigative reporters look deeply into a subject to find new information or expose wrongdoing. A lot of the time, they work on one story — talking to people, reading documents, and analyzing data.
Entertainment reporters look at the entertainment business, such as films, TV, music, and news about celebrities. They go to movie premieres and report on new trends in the industry.
How do I become a news reporter?
To become a news reporter, you usually need a bachelor's degree. It might also be helpful to have work experience or an internship at a student newspaper, radio station, or TV station.
As noted in the video clip above:
It took Dana Griffin two years to get a job after college.
Dana started with a low-paid position at the station she had interned with at college.
She moved to California for her next job.
She worked for different stations before getting a position at NBC News.
Did you know?
Only a few news reporters have regular 9-to-5 hours. Expect to occasionally work nights and weekends, especially when you're just starting out.
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Does it pay the bills?
The median annual wage for news reporters in the USA was $57,500 in 2023.
In 2024, Canada's average pay for a news reporter was $60,216 a year.
Is this the right role for me?
This would suit you if you:
Have a good eye for detail.
Have a strong sense of integrity.
Have great communication skills.
Are flexible and adaptable.
Can question and analyze facts.
Are highly self-motivated.
This wouldn't suit you if you:
Prioritize financial success.
Don't want to work weekends.
Are sensitive to criticism.
Like to have a regular routine.
Aren't comfortable networking.
Don't have strong writing skills.
Who's the best news reporter candidate?
Simon
Major in English literature
Shy, prefers to chat online
Highest GPA in his class
Hai Bo
Writes articles for his school newspaper
Enjoys history and politics
Volunteers as an English tutor
Jeanie
Captain of the swim team
Loves social media
Uses Instagram to post her opinions
Erika
Hosts her own YouTube beauty channel
Member of the school debate team
Loves socializing; hates getting up early!
Quiz
Who do you think would make a great news reporter?
Take Action
Are you interested in becoming a news reporter?
Photo by Brad Neathery on UnsplashStart small, then work your way up! These are some ways you can get started:
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