As a columnist, my job is pretty easy. I find a topic that intrigues me and then write about it from the comfort and safety of my own home.
I initially was going to write about the absurdity of media attention on people like Paris Hilton and Lindsay Lohan this week, which would have made me a complete hypocrite.
But after a tragic accident last Friday, I think it’s necessary to write about not only the dangers of being a journalist, but also the commitment journalists have in order to bring America, and the world, news.
If you are just now coming home from a vacation, or just haven’t left your house due to the scorching heat, you may not know about the helicopter collision that occurred in Phoenix that day.
Two news helicopters, from KTVK (channel 3) and KNXV (channel 15), were covering a police chase when they collided.
The two copters exploded and fell to the ground, landing in Indian Steele Park near Indian School and Central Avenue. Luckily no one in the park was hurt, but sadly, local media lost four journalists: pilot Scott Bowerbank, photographer Jim Cox, pilot Craig Smith and photographer Rick Krolak.
Before coming to ASU two years ago, I didn’t really know where news came from, nor understand the process of disseminating the news.
But after studying journalism and working for The State Press, I gained a greater respect for journalists and what they do. Many people do not realize how much dedication it takes to be in the journalism profession.
However, it doesn’t just take commitment. Grit and perseverance are among the many traits that create a good journalist; as well as fearlessness.
Journalism, unknown to many, can be a very dangerous job. Investigative journalists digging for the truth, international reporters covering the war, helicopter pilots and cop beat reporters, among numerous others, all face dangers in their every day lives.
Not only do they sacrifice their safety in order to bring us the news, but also some positions can be so demanding that some journalists end up sacrificing years of their lives in order to do their job successfully.
Over the last two years, I have learned that the journalism profession requires a special dedication. The profession is no easy task and the career is getting more and more competitive as media evolves.
Simply studying the career has left me feeling exhausted; yet accomplished. And while I thoroughly enjoyed journalism, I learned that it was not for me.
However, I have gained a greater respect for today’s journalists. It is a profession that is often overlooked by ordinary people like you and me.
Some people don’t understand the dedication it takes just for people around the country to have their morning paper, or a refreshed Web site chock full of the latest news stories along with media clips and pictures.
While our infatuation with people like Lindsay Lohan can be absurd at times, the tragic loss of four outstanding local journalists doing what they love �" bringing us the news �" certainly gives me an even greater understanding of just how vital these people are for the world we live in.
Reach the columnist at: kyle.snow@asu.edu.
