Unless you're highly exclusive, you probably have friends who are majoring in all sorts of fields. From business and agriculture to communication and engineering, you hear all about majors that differ from yours. And when you listen to your friends day in and day out, you can clearly tell what they're majoring in based on some of their habits. That being said, here are seven typical moves that your journalism major friend makes, which you sometimes love and sometimes have to simply put up with (because that's what friends do).
1. “I read an article that said…”
...*insert super interesting piece of information here* If you have a friend who is a journalist, new information will be thrown at you on the reg. Benefits include being more informed and being able to tell other people what you've learned!
2. They correct your spelling through text.
Want to pain the brain of a journalist? Have constant spelling errors in everything you type/send. It's simple really. If you don't know how to spell the word, turn to Google or avoid the word altogether to spare everyone the pain.
3. They correct your grammar.
This may not be your favorite in casual conversation, but their expertise comes in handy when you have to write an essay for class. What's better than having an on-call personal editor?
4. You receive texts that say “Read this” and are accompanied by a link.
Some articles are interesting, some are way too long, and some are not worth wasting your time on (so you think). If you don't read the articles you're sent, your friend will constantly bug you until you do. It's probably in everyone's best interest for you to read what your friend took the time to call your attention to.
5. When you ask your journalist friend what they're up to.
"I'm busy writing. I have to keep writing, so I can build my portfolio and, by extension, my entire future." Practice makes perfect! If you don't know what your journalist friend is up to, there's a pretty good chance they're writing something.
6. When someone tells your friend journalism is dying.
You turn and run as far away as you possibly can, as fast as you can, because that person is about to get a piece of your friend's mind. Journalism will not die. Print journalism will (hopefully) not die. But you, sir, will!
7. They tell you that you need to use social media to create your brand and showcase your talents.
Social media plays quite an important role in distributing information in today's tech-based society. Using social media to showcase your skills could help determine whether or not you get the next job or internship you apply for. Make use of the outlets you have in front of you!