Abstract

Teenagers tend to select potential occupations narrowly, based solely on individual abilities and interests. This assumption was tested in a study of 11 high school students from Buffalo, New York, USA who participated in a college-based journalism workshop. Interviews were conducted with the students regarding their interests in becoming professional journalists. All the participants made decisions regarding journalism careers based on their perceived ability to do the traditional tasks of journalism (i.e., writing and/or speaking professionally). None recognized the impact relatively recent developments such as new media and social media have on a career in journalism. Two students only briefly pondered the potential impacts of the industry's turbulence caused by new media and social media on their intended career. Some key findings and implications for high school administrators, educators and career development counselors are identified and discussed.<br/><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o-oj6n2hWPE"> Click here to view this virtual presentation!</a>