6 Things to expect when you’re ​​a Broadcasting Major

1. You do not know how to write as good as you think you do.

No, I don’t mean you can’t form sentences but, when using AP style you learn when to use hyphens in words that you didn’t even know needed them.

2. If you miss a class the day an assignment is due, good luck.

In a journalism class, you’re not going to learn about the Puritans for a week straight like you would in a history class. Each class you learn something new but there’s always that one early class you hit snooze for one to many times. For me, this was my technologies in journalism class at 7 a.m. You read that right, 7 in the morning. So naturally, I overslept one day and missed two assignments due… R.I.P to my grade.

3. Get ready to jump out of your comfort zone.

Get ready for oral reports, voice over projects, blogging, and real-life interviewing assignments. If you are more on the introverted side, you might be in some trouble here.

4. Find that one buddy in your classes and stick with them for the rest of college.

Just like any major, when you get out of your basics you will start noticing the same people in all your classes. Plan your classes together, go to extra credit storytelling festivals together, (thanks Marilee) and help each other as much as possible. A familiar face is always a plus.

5. Your first contribution to your school’s tv station, newspaper, or radio show is horrible.

I hate to be the bearer of bad news but I can’t sugar coat this. We can talk about my first midday show with TrojanVision where it seemed like I forgot how to read my first language or my first time on The Social Second where my country accent was OUT to shine. It’ll get better but don’t expect to be perfect the first time. If it were that easy everyone would do it.

6. Do NOT take this opportunity for granted.

You obviously have a passion for journalism or you wouldn’t be doing it. I can honestly say this is the most rewarding and fun major. (I might be a little bias oops) I have gotten so many opportunities and met so many people (aka Neal Brown) that I would have never been able to with another major. Am I promising these things for you? if you put yourself out there and get involved, yes. Having a major so hands-on with such knowledgable professors is a blessing and something that is so rare to come by these days. So, HAVE FUN WITH IT!