Cortney Fielding
Job Title: Staff Reporter, Pasadena Star News
USC Course of study: M.A., Print Journalism
Describe your current occupation:
I am a daily news reporter covering the cities of Pasadena and South Pasadena.
How did you get there?
Internships, internships and more internships. I started at the Daily Trojan my first semester, went to the Santa Monica Daily Press my second. During the summer I interned at the Daily Breeze and was asked back for the fall. Finally, in the spring before graduation I interned at the Los Angeles Daily News.
How did you get your first job?
This is my first job. I used connections made during school and internships. I had two recommendations from people who knew the Star News editor. One from a columnist at a past paper and one from a professor.
How did your experience at Annenberg help?
Getting a foot in the door. Being at Annenberg allows you to get the great internships that can get you the first job. Editors look for Anneberg M.A. students because we have a great reputation.
What advice do you have for current Annenberg School students in your occupation?
Take advantage of your professors. They may seem like crazy old men at times but they are a wealth of both knowledge – and connections. Paying to go to this school and focusing entirely on academics is a waste. While important, fostering connections to fellow students who will be in power positions in the future – and the professors who can help you know – are just as important. Also, because we only have two years to do what undergrads have four to accomplish, don't slack. Start interning as soon as possible and power through. It's worth it.
In your opinion, what is the Annenberg Advantage?
Name recognition and contacts. Your professors are not just "teachers" but actual working professionals that can give real-world advice. And if you impress them, they won't forget you when it's time to graduate and look for a job.