The decline of journalism: why it is important to have factual and honest journalism
March 18, 2024
Sitting in my copy editing class, the professor questioned our choice to pursue journalism: “It’s a dying field. Layoffs every year. No pay. No work.” It was relentless, and I could sense the class becoming discouraged.
We had finally found something we were passionate about, and then a professor told us we had chosen the wrong career to focus our life on. It was a disheartening moment, as if our newfound enthusiasm for journalism had been abruptly questioned and undermined.
According to the Associated Press, “an average of 2.5 newspapers closed each week in 2023.” This highlights a concerning trend of people turning away from staying informed and triggering layoffs in the media industry.
This is detrimental to young adults striving to pursue a career in journalism. This results in a decline of students declaring a major in journalism, as upon graduation, job market opportunities are scarce.
However, College Factual reports that roughly 14,000 undergraduate journalism degrees are presented each year. Even though job opportunities are slim, students still seek careers in this field.
The View Point Newspaper has opened our eyes to the world of print journalism. Our work for this publication has taught us the importance of meeting deadlines, meticulously investigating sources, and establishing a platform committed to unbiased, reliable news.
And yet, the concern of securing a job after college looms over us. Despite our enriched experience with The View Point, the challenge remains to transform into self-sufficient, contributing writers of society.
Bobby Hayes, Chair of the Department of Journalism and Sports Media at High Point University, understands students’ concerns surrounding this dying field.
Hayes attributes industry layoffs to the dominance of smartphones.
“News is so easy to get quickly on your phone or computer. It’s never going back to the old days. Who wants to go to a newspaper stand to buy printed paper?” Hayes said. “I still rather enjoy the leisurely feel of turning the printed pages while sitting in a comfortable chair, but I’m afraid it’s a generational bias.”
While this is without a doubt, correct, Hayes elaborates why journalists are still desperately needed in this increasing digital society.
Hayes acknowledges the changing media landscape.
“We need journalists now more than ever. In an age of exploding information, we need people with the training and expertise to tell stories that are fair, truthful, and well-sourced.” Hayes says. “We play a vital role in our democracy. That hasn’t changed.”
In an era of escalating fake news and disinformation, an increasing number of individuals are recognizing the essential role of journalists. The evident manipulation online poses a significant threat to society.
This is where we step in. As up-and-coming journalists, we diligently strive to create unbiased, factual news. We see ourselves as the unsung heroes of society, working tirelessly every day against the odds to produce articles that unveil the real stories behind the noise.
It’s a passion that’s not easily found, a dedication possessed by only a few. Hayes, alongside other influential figures in the news community, unanimously agree that journalism is not a pursuit for monetary gains. It’s a career tailored for those who yearn for unwavering dedication to their craft.
“Believe in your calling. It’s never been easy. Journalists are killed worldwide every year.” Hayes says. “What you are doing is important. The opportunity to play a vital role in our democracy is still there, but you have to fight for it.”
It’s this very struggle that keeps The View Point writers motivated, as we firmly believe that the true art of journalism will never fade away entirely.