IC alum makes it big in D.C.

Kate Sheppard '06 left Ithaca College with one goal in mind — to be a professional journalist. Well, she realized that school doesn't always prepare for the reality of getting a job. It's actually not that easy. Sheppard, after researching some independent news sites, applied for an internship at Grist in Seattle, Wa. From there she wandered around freelancing to pay the bills. She then went to WireTap, and then back again to Grist. In the midst of her constant moving, Sheppard was picked up by highly notable independent media outlets. Though she was laid off by Grist, Sheppard found a home at Mother Jones. 

After listening to Sheppard's story in class today, I learned a valuable lesson: Don't expect to be picked up by a mainstream organization anytime soon after graduation. Sheppard was able to offer us advice on being well-versed in digital journalism, finding a niche and creating a digital footprint. I don't think any of her words fell on deaf ears.