If you're a Mizzou journalism student, like me, you understand that the program we're in is VERY challenging. However, if you're considering journalism as a possible career, here are a few things to think about:

1. Your writing in high school is not as great as you thought it was.

I went through all of high school thinking that my writing was A+ work and nothing less. However, upon applying to the journalism program, I've discovered that I have so much to learn. A required class for all journalism students is J2100 (News). This is by far the most challenging class I have faced up until this point. However, after successfully completing the course, I feel far more confident in my writing than I ever did in high school.

2. If you are an opinionated person, journalism might be challenging for you.

News reporters today are expected to be unbiased when presenting information to the public. This is very difficult as it is natural for human beings to project their opinions. As a journalist, you have to push that tendency aside and focus on both sides of the story to present information that benefits everyone.

3. One typo can flunk you; so double check and triple check your work.

Yes, this is VERY intense. Unfortunately, the grading rubric is very strict. One typo can get you an automatic 50% on any assignment. BUT THERE ARE BENEFITS TO THIS!!! Now, I'm very careful to read over my work. This prepared me to write more professional pieces for publishing.

4. The course load may seem daunting, but everyone wants you to succeed!

Something I learned a little late through J2100 is that your professors are VERY willing to help you. You always hear, "go to office hours!" and "your teachers want to help!" but do you really take that seriously? I never had until now. Professors want to help. They want to see your writing improve, and they are the most knowledgable of anyone in that course, so ask them for help!

5. It will be the most difficult and wonderful decision you've ever made.

Going into my freshman year, I very honestly had no idea what I wanted to do with my life. All I knew is that I really loved putting pen to paper and my fingers to the keyboard. After further developing my list of interests, I decided journalism was the track for me. I believe with hard work and determination, I will emerge from this program a better writer and a wiser news consumer.

So, potential journalism student. I hope you've taken away my main point here: journalism is rewarding. I personally don't know any career like it.