Freelance journalism has hit a recent rise in popularity. According to the National Council for the Training of Journalists, in the years between 2000 and 2015 those practicing freelance journalism has risen 67%. In addition, 84% of those who identify as freelance are well educated, holding a degree or higher level qualification, demonstrating how despite not holding a title they are qualified. This pattern of turning to self employment has led to many younger, older, and employed individuals making their place as journalists.
Following this pattern, and despite changing her career path, Martin always held onto her journalism roots. Through writing and blogging on various topics Martin was able to continue pursuing her passions while balancing her other responsibilities.
“I didn’t plan on continuing [with journalism after college],” Martin said. “It became a great way to write, connect with more people, and connect with other writers interested in the same topics. I don’t try to limit myself on one topic or one platform, I write on whatever inspires me and whoever wants to publish it can or I can do it myself, it’s nice having the freedom.”
Journalism has become a very competitive field, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics most journalists hold a Bachelor’s degree in either journalism or communication, as the minimum requirement to make the median income of $43,490 per year. In addition, most working towards this profession supplement their degree with internships or work experience. Collectively, this trend in the field signifies an increase in competition supplemented by the decline in jobs and opportunities available for those pursuing this path.
So, since continuing with journalism Martin has faced challenges. Due to not having direct employment with a publication or network all of the responsibility for the editorial and production processes fall on her.
“Getting started for me was the most difficult part,” Martin said. “I didn’t fully appreciate how much my time and talent were really worth but you learn over time and through experience.”
Regardless of the difficulties, there are also many upsides for Martin that she deems worthy of fighting through the bad.
“The most rewarding part has been connecting with people that are affected and touched by what I write,” Martin said. “ Creating something out of nothing and that amazing feeling of accomplishment makes it all worth it.”
Along with Martin’s personal experience within the field of journalism, she also speaks on the current climate of the profession and perception of the media from both within and outside the industry.
“The media and journalism are more important now than at any time in modern history,” Martin said. “Telling the truth and holding those in power accountable is absolutely critical to the wellbeing and security of our democracy. I am so grateful for journalists and those in media who hold integrity to the highest standard, regardless of the risk. It is an exciting and turbulent time, and the media has the privilege and responsibility to deliver stories and facts without bias or censorship.”
As Martin has continued to pursue journalism in this changing media climate, her experiences have allowed her to see what it takes to be successful for anyone who may be wanting to follow a similar path.
“Work hard,” Martin said. “Write when you don’t feel like it. Stay with it when it gets hard, because it will. Believe in yourself, trust your instinct, and always love yourself and your ability.”
The MFJS Reporter -- Winter 2020 T-R 