Start young, if possible. Budding broadcast journalists often vie for experience while in high school either working as an editor at a school newspaper or even interning for a local television news station. Internships are often unpaid but, when it comes to the competitive world of broadcast journalism, the experience pays off when applying for jobs later in life.
Get a degree. Most top news anchors and reporters have degrees in broadcast journalism or journalism. J-School, as it is known, is hard to get into. Schools such as Northwestern's Medill School of Journalism take only the best and brightest and prepare the chosen few for a life behind, or in front of, the camera. Broadcast journalism programs are growing in popularity in U.S. colleges and universities. Again, the experience and degree in broadcast journalism is more important than a big name school. Big name schools offer connections to top companies such as ABC and CBS. Many students choose to study in large cities and "markets" as they are called in the news industry. Popular choices include Seattle, Los Angeles, Phoenix, Houston, Tampa Bay, New York City and Charlotte.
Get experience. While in school, be sure to get in front of, or behind, the camera. Working for a college TV station, or interning at area and cable television news station, is a wonderful way to get experience. The more experience, the better.
Get that first job. You have the broadcast journalism degree and a number of clippings and tapes under your belt. That first job will be the most important. Many broadcast journalists start out as weather anchors or editing, as producers, behind the camera. A broadcast journalism call can require a move across the country or even a stint abroad. Think hard about where your strengths lie as a broadcast journalist and reach for your dreams.
Keep contacts. In many industries, especially the highly competitive field of broadcast journalism, it's all about contacts and who you know. Sometimes that contact can get your tape reel seen by the head producers or get you an interview at the station where you want to work. Use an alumni directory from the university or college you attended. Join professional organizations, as well, such as the Society of Professional Journalists. A professional affiliation is well worth the price for membership. SPJ's professional membership is $72 for a year. For the first three years after graduation, it is only $36 annually. Attend meetings, network and start that career as a broadcast journalist.