College journalism classes provided instruction on writing and interviewing skills and offered a small glimpse of the reporting industry. Those who snagged a part-time job on their college newspaper or yearbook staffs have and even better idea what professional reporting is all about.
Graduation is finally at hand, and it is time to hit the job market.
But not without an internship. It is likely that finding a good job hinges on having had one. Years ago internships were difficult to find, and most were unpaid positions. Interns did much of the less desirable work in the office such as file, make deliveries and answer telephones. Today, editors are depending on inters to do some of their major reporting and research projects.