Panel Discusses Careers Outside Journalism
By Carey P. Fowler
Lemke Ledger Staff
Many broadcast majors are finding careers outside of their field.
This path was discussed during a J-Days panel titled "Life after broadcast reporting: What this degree can lead to, if you don’t go into news."
The main topic of the panel was how to work a journalism degree into different career opportunities. Three of the four UA broadcast journalism alumni panelists — Jennifer Irwin, Stacey Stark Hall, Nikki Blaylock and Aaron Smith — found careers outside of broadcasting.
The panel was a new addition to the J-Days schedule this year. The panelists discussed what they have done since college with their careers and how their journalism degree helped them get into the work they're doing today.
Only Irwin, is still part of the broadcast industry through her two radio shows — one on KEZA “Magic” 107.9 and the other on KMXF “Hot Mix” 101.9. Stark Hall now works in Gov. Mike Beebe’s office, Blalock works as a marketing director for Ticketmaster and Smith is an attorney with Wal-Mart.
“Everything you learn in journalism, in general, can be used in any career,” Blaylock said.
At Ticketmaster she has to multitask, and that is a skill she learned well during time spent in the UA's broadcast department.
The panel provided career advice to future graduates and discussed how to use a journalism degree in a variety of ways.
“You have to make things happen, just be willing to do the dirty work,” Irwin said.
The panel discussion was followed by a Q&A segment open to the audience. Students received feedback on topics such as what to look for in an employee and how to stand out to prospective employers.