How many people are living sufficient lives having a career in Journalism?

Dear Zari,

The federal government's Bureau of Labor Statistics has the most comprehensive information on the number, location and earning power of journalists across the country. It is all here - https://www.bls.gov/oes/2017/may/oes273022.htm

I am guessing your question refers mainly to how many people earn a decent living as journalists. And the BLS link answers that part of the question for you. But, I want to nudge you to consider all the non-monetary benefits of a career in journalism.

I love being a journalist because I am surrounded by wicked smart people who know a great deal about a stunning range of people and places and institutions. Within ten feet of my desk, I can turn to people who can answer most any question I have about national security or physics or microbiology. Expand that radius to fifty feet and I can reach experts on the environment, religion, the Supreme Court.

I love being a journalist because my day is filled with the unexpected. Very little of what I do is predictable and almost none of it is routine.

I love being a journalist because my colleagues are the best talkers I know. Best listeners, too.

A career may line your pockets but never fill you with joy. And, to me, a career is not sufficient if it doesn't fill you with joy.

Good luck.

Luis Clemens

Zari R,

A sufficient life comes from anything you harness your inner power into. Journalism is a passion also necessity in the world that has transformed into a career. You can make a living on it because as long as mankind has words, audio and visuals you are guaranteed a position in society. Also Journalism is one of the many branches of Media which rules this dominion so you will have to research, harness, sharpen, empower and love the field of writing, preparing and broadcasting information to the world. I wish you the best on your journey.

Every career comes with income expectations. According to Payscale.com the average individual with a BA in Journalism currently makes 55k/year. This could depend heavily on location, specific job role, and other factors.

Consider if this degree has multiple career options for you and if you can live with the potential income. If you can live within the estimated income, then you will have a sufficient life. If you need more money in life and your career choice is solely based on money consider careers that will pay you the wage you desire.

Remember individuals with BA in Journalism degrees, are employable as: broadcast journalist, editorial assistants, feature editors, magazine journalists, newspaper journalists, press sub-editors, publishing officers, copy-editors, proofreaders, web content managers, and so many other jobs. Many of these individuals find their lives complete doing something they love and making an average wage.