Option 1

Though I'm not certain what I'll major in in college, I've always enjoyed reading and writing the most out of all school activities. So I'm considering getting a degree in English.
My main ambition in life is to work as a journalist or photojournalist, so, instead of English, I may major in communications, journalism or media studies.

Journalist

Journalism is considered a "dying career," as more and more newspapers are going bankrupt and writers make far less than they once did. However, many publications have adapted to the Electronic Age, using internet platforms and multimedia production methods to share the news. Though jobs may not be as abundant as they once were, there's still room for ambitious young reporters. Journalists now make on average $39,000 annually. That figure doesn't begin to measure the satisfaction a career in media can bring someone, however. Larger, more reputable papers in major U.S. cities like New York pay more than county publications, and experience in the field or time in graduate school can grant aspiring journalist a higher position and salary.


Photojournalist

Even though media coverage is becoming more visual, the median pay for photojournalists is only $39,000 a year. Job security in this field is declining, as newspapers are hiring fewer staff photographers. But photojournalists can choose to be freelance. This enables--but does not guarantee--assignments from a wide range of publications.

Public Relations Specialist

Though less fulfilling, a career in PR is more secure and lucrative than one in journalism. Public relations specialists make on average $63,000 annually; in San Francisco, where I'd like to live, the average is higher at $82,380. PR specialists in the District of Columbia make on average of $99,440--maybe because they have to manage the often scandalous public lives of U.S. politicians.