Medill School of Journalism

jennysupALLnight
Mon, 01 Aug 2005 01:28:55 +0000

Hey everyone! I’m going to be a Medill freshman in the fall…of course, I have nothing bad to say about my future school but I can tell you why NU has the most unique Journalism program.

Associate Dean Richard Roth just spoke to a few of us at a So-Cal Medill get-together; he told us that starting this year, we will be taught a curriculum that is integrated with every facet of journalism. i.e. by the time we’ve all graduated, we’ll have had experience in front of a camera, public relations-related lessons, etc. etc. Also, starting 2005-2006, there’s a foreign language requirement—in other words, they want us to be well-cultured, which I think every school program should aim to accomplish.

Every Medill junior does a Teaching Media, which is a sort of internship—you get to choose where [nationally/internationally] you would like to apply and work for a quarter. Since I’m from CA, I could ask that I get a job working for a local news station. It’s really great for hands-on experience, especially since by then I’ll know what I’ll be concentrating in.

Medill strongly encourages double-majoring. There are peer mentors to help you map out a suggested curriculum to help you meet the graduation requirements. Also, everyone is honest. i.e. chances are doubling in Journalism and Theatre isn’t going to work.

The publications you will probably be joining are phenomenal. The Daily Northwestern [what I will be going out for] is one of the nation’s best college papers. NNN [Northwestern News Network] attracts outside viewers and reports news from Evanston, Chicago, beyond!

When I went to Preview NU [you get invited upon acceptance] it seemed like everyone accepted to Medill was likely to go. It’s hard to explain—it’s just such an accomplishment to get in; nearly impossible to turn down…here let me spit out some numbers. ~1200 students apply; 200-something get in; 160 accept.

Northwestern itself has such a great community of pride. That said, Medill pride is even greater. If you’re even considering studying journalism, I would advise you to apply. It’s all worth it - the app, the essays, the $60. LOL. I’m rambling. Sorry, I’m just so damn excited. Hope this helped!! Please please message me if you have any questions. =]

Jen