Tom Griffin ⋅ New York , NY Digital Film Academy ⋅ 10 years experience

Hi Joseph,

since you seem to be located in the New Jersey anyway, maybe you're interested to come sit in on a class or two here at our film school? No charge whatsoever - just a little taster of what our filmmaking programs are like.

Ping me at tom.griffin@digitalfilmacademy.edu if you'd like me to email you through a few possible days/times over the coming week(s). Then you pick can out one or two that suit you.

We're close to Times Square, so should be an easy ride in from NJ. For anyone new to media and filmmaking, our free ongoing lifetime access to equipment (cameras, audio equipment, light kits, facilities incl. greenscreen room, soundbooth) is a very attractive way to get started quickly.

Have a look at the feedback from other veterans who studied here with us: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B_ylJ2oq5hI

Afterwards, you can click to set up a class you'd like to observe:
http://www.digitalfilmacademy.edu/observe-free-classes/

Tom Griffin,
Digital Film Academy
Tel: 212-333-4013
www.DigitalFilmAcademy.edu

Barbara Stern ⋅ Boulder , CO Affordable Closets,llc ⋅ 35 years experience

Joseph,
In the old days when I was getting into broadcasting, I volunteered at a community radio station to get some exposure as well as develop my own style. Many communities have public radio and tv stations that utilize volunteers. Being involved with this kind of media outlet will introduce you to many people as well as assist in creating a resume and audition tape. As for the digital world of producing, check into media groups on LinkedIn. There are many people you can network with here.
Have you started your own blog that can showcase the types of stories you want to report on?
Breaking into the media this way may open up some avenues for you. The print media is hurting but at the same time they have developed online presences. This is another area for you to look into. I would say, if there is an area that you are totally intrigued with, then become an expert in that area and post your material online. And then market yourself constantly for exposure.
Best of luck.

Mary Bock ⋅ Austin , TX The University of Texas ⋅ 30 years experience

Hi Joseph -
One of the best ways to break into journalism these days is to become a specialist on a topic and start your own publication online. Another way is to create a good resume reel, if what you really want is to work in television news. No matter what -- you'll need to be able to demonstrate online video, writing and production skills, so start a website and start working. Media organizations are looking for a strong portfolio.
I hope this helps,
Mary

Joseph Wade ⋅ Union City , NJ U.S. Navy, Petty Officer Second Class ⋅ 8 years served

Beth, I would consider trade publications, but I am also interested in new journalism. Right now, I'm looking to make an entrance as an AP or PA, preferably field or digital.

Jennifer Hoffmann ⋅ New York , NY Dow Jones & Company ⋅ 15 years experience

In terms of working as a producer, I have a lot of friends who seem to do this on a freelance basis. Working freelance could be a good way to dip your toes in with different organizations and get a better sense of where you will be happiest. In addition to your traditional media companies, you might want to look for opportunities at PR or marketing agencies.

Beth Smits ⋅ Washington , DC Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies ⋅ 24 years experience

Dear Joseph, are you interested in mainstream new journalism or would you consider 'trade' publications. For example, in financial services there are lots of different media -- or any other industry. That can help us pinpoint some more specific advice. Best regards, Beth