Abstract:
On the surface level, journalism can seem an easy profession. Not much more to do than write and ask a few questions. But the profession requires a great deal of knowledge in various areas. Journalists must be skilled in interviewing, researching, lede writing, story structure and word usage. Their job doesn't end there, though. They must also be aware of how pictures and design elements can add depth to the story. They need to be able to think about the ethical and legal ramifications of what they write. Everyday stories often test these skills, but one of the hardest challenges for a journalist - and one that puts all these skills and more to a high test - is the in-depth story project. The project I chose for my thesis was to look into the economic and social life of Marion, Ind., during Spring 2006. The months of research and interviewing, along with a scientific survey, led to a special section in the Marion Chronicle-Tribune, which included several of my stories. Included in my thesis are my stories and analysis of what went in to writing them.
