This paper profiles a career in investigative reporting through the lens of a personal interest and a firsthand interview with Emmy Award-winning investigative reporter Jilda Unruh of WPLG Channel 10 in Miami, Florida. The paper examines the educational backgrounds useful for entering the field, the typical path from traditional reporting to investigative work, the importance of building contacts and sources, salary expectations, and the competitive job market. It also weighs the benefits and drawbacks of the profession, including varied daily tasks, long hours, personal safety risks, and legal concerns such as libel and slander.
Whether it was reading my younger sister's diary or spying on my neighbors whom I was convinced were axe murderers, I have always had a natural calling for being a sleuth. In addition to my voyeuristic tendencies, I am also interested in current events and politics. As a result of these interests, I am drawn to a career as an investigative reporter.
I interviewed Jilda Unruh, an Emmy Award-winning investigative reporter at WPLG Channel 10 in Miami, FL, for some inside information on her line of work. Regarding preparation for the field, she said, "A solid, diverse education is more important than any particular major. Investigative reporting covers such a broad spectrum of topics that one must be comfortable in a variety of subjects." Ms. Unruh did not major in journalism, but noted that the writing and fact-finding skills taught in most undergraduate programs are helpful for writing effective scripts and interview questions.
She majored in American History, which she says "helps her in understanding the underlying themes of today's issues in current events and politics." Her second major, drama, has also proven useful when she must conduct undercover work for her assignments.
There are many ways to break into the field of investigative reporting. Many investigative reporters, including Ms. Unruh, first worked as traditional reporters and anchors at local news stations. As an investigative reporter, one's most precious commodity is one's contacts and sources. For this reason, aspiring investigative reporters usually work alongside a team of experienced investigators with a variety of established contacts until they develop their own network.
Most major news stations and newspapers employ investigative reporters. Since there will always be news, there will always be a need for reporters. According to The Princeton Review, over 40 million people read newspapers in the United States each day, and over 50 million people read magazines each week. Yet competition in this field can be very fierce. According to the Indiana University College of Journalism, "Journalism-related jobs are available on an as-needed basis and while competition is always intense, alumni do well in finding positions after graduation" (Majors and Careers in Journalism).
"Typical earnings and demand for investigative reporters"
"Daily variety weighed against risks and long hours"
In my opinion, a career in investigative reporting complements my personality. I like both challenge and risk, and would rather work long, unsteady hours doing a variety of things instead of sitting at the same desk every day from nine to five.
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