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University of Southern California

ALUMNI

Ernest Kung

Class of 2004, Bachelor's

Writer

I worked in Portland, Ore. and San Diego before making the jump to Los Angeles.

I’d like to emphasize how important it is to get out of your comfort zone, experience other parts of the country, meet new people and grow as a journalist. Sometimes, I envy my reporting counterparts who have to start off in the smallest of markets. They get to see a part of America that people like me may never see. That’s experience.

It will always be tough the first few years after college, but take it from me, it will get better. All you need is experience.

Survey

What are the top three skills journalism students should learn in college?:

1. Professionalism
2. Endurance
3. Spelling



What were your duties at ATVN? :

Art Director, Producer and more.



How did ATVN prepare you for your career?:

The opportunity to make, and correct, mistakes early on.
We are steps ahead of the competition right out of college.



What is your advice to aspiring journalists?:

ATVN taught me to have patience, and to always work hard. Have a relentless focus on quality journalism, regardless of outside pressures.



What should graduates keep in mind when negotiating their first job?:

You’re not in this for the money or to get on TV. You’re in it to serve the public. If this doesn’t sound right, please reconsider.

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