Day In The Life: Fox News Junior Reporter

If you check Facebook and Twitter for breaking news before you even get out of bed, then you have at least some of the makings of a journalist. FOX News’ Ailes Junior Reporter Program helps recent graduates gain experience as multimedia journalists at the #1 cable news network in the country. It’s the perfect chance to research, report, and produce original news stories live from the field. The best part: FOX News provides all the resources and training you need to get your foot in the door for a career in broadcasting.

We interviewed former Junior Reporter and Temple University alum, Matt Finn, now a national correspondent for the FOX News channel, about his experience with the program and received some great tips for potential applicants.

What are the top skills you need in order to succeed as a FOX News Junior Reporter?

The number one skill you need is to be flexible. You have to be ready to properly handle and cover breaking news at any time of the day. News doesn’t sleep, so you will get calls at all hours and when that happens, your equipment needs to be ready and you’ve got to immediately zone-in. You are the FOX News presence in your town, so it’s on you to get it right.

The second skill to have is knowledge about news and the business operation of it. That means knowing what a morning news meeting looks like, how to work under deadline and sometimes extreme pressure, and how online content is different from TV. It also helps if you have a basic understanding of technical terms and news lingo.

What’s the best part about your job?

The opportunity and exposure you get as a Junior Reporter. You are treated like a full-time FOX News correspondent or field producer because FOX relies on you to cover so many huge stories. Because you’re thrown right in, you will learn fast and learn on the job.

Do you feel set up for success in your role? How does FOX News ensure that?

FOX News goes above and beyond to set you up for success as a Junior Reporter. You will be given extensive training and will be equipped with all of the latest cutting-edge technology. You will also learn about all areas of the business and there are always multiple mentors you can turn to for help and guidance.

What’s the most rewarding feedback you’ve received while in this position?

The most rewarding feedback definitely comes from the viewers all around the world. I receive numerous emails from people who have watched or read my segments giving me their take and opinions. It’s the reason why I do this job: to spread knowledge.

How can students show that they have a positive attitude during the interviewing process at FOX News?

Being enthusiastic about broadcasting and excited about the network will go a long way toward showing executives that you’re a good fit for the position. Another tip: Don’t be too newsy or uptight. Your personality is one of the things that will make you a great broadcast journalist, so being yourself is key to doing well in the interview.  

Describe the company culture at FOX News.

FOX News’ chairman and CEO Roger Ailes’ mottos is “negative people make positive people sick.” I believe that to be true and now, after working coast to coast for FOX for nearly three years, I believe it accurately represents the culture. There is little room for negativity and a lot of room for development, hard work, and success.

What are the best perks of working for FOX News?

Opportunity, exposure, and recognition.

If you want to get involved in some of the same cool things as Matt, find out more about the role and submit your application.