Writing Fellows Program: Advice for New Writers
The Writing Fellows Program had the unique opportunity to hold their weekly meeting at MediaDC’s office this past Tuesday to be able to hear from three skilled journalists and editors. The participants within this program are aspiring, young writers looking to get their big break into the world of journalism. With Stephanie Slade, the Deputy Managing Editor of Reason, as their mentor and organizer of the program, the participants receive one-on-one mentoring, networking opportunities with well-known DC writers, and learn how to get published. The Washington Examiner had two representatives attend this meeting, Philip Klein, the managing editor, and Tim Carney, the Senior Political Columnist. Ron Meyer represented Red Alert Politics.
Check out these great tips for writing:
- Write wherever they will publish you
When you first start out, you are not going to be writing for your dream publication. To be able to get to that point, it takes a lot of practice and determination. Stephanie Slade shared her story of writing articles at first that never got published, but she knew that she had to keep writing. Philip Klein was able to go to get his masters in journalism where he practiced writing with quick deadlines.
- Find your niche
If you know a lot about a subject, why not write about it? Ron Meyer compared writing to investing. Many big investors started out investing in products that they knew or had some experience in. They were able to practice with those investments and able to branch out when they learned more about the proper way to invest. If you are a new journalist that knows a lot about economics, go ahead and write about it. After some practice, you may be able to expand out.
- Go above and beyond when competing against the more seasoned writers
Many of the fellows have had the experience when experienced writers were chosen over them. Picking up the phone and calling people for quotes, coming up with creative questions that others may not ask, and being willing to travel can help put you above other writers.
- Find intriguing personal accounts
Politics is not just about the laws and policies, but it is about the people. Tim Carney found that many readers do not want to only read about the business in DC, but they want to hear about how it affects the retired police officer, the farmer, or the concerned parent. People are able to connect with these stories. Many times, these stories usual have interesting twists as well.
Caroline Thorman, one of our current fellows had this to say about the program:
“AFF’s writing fellows program has been incredibly helpful to me as I aspire to become an influential writer in an increasing polarized culture. We need better writers communicating conservative policies that promote a nation upholding freedom, cultivating moral values, and encouraging limited government. Being able to simplify complicated issues where the average reader will not only be intrigued, but educated by what you write indicates you’ve done your job well. I’m so grateful for the opportunity to participate in a fellowship that pushes me to excel as a writer, helps me improve my writing techniques, and prepares me to communicate ideas that work.”
With the support of the AF community, this program will produce six new writers and continue to impact the many other alumni of the Writing Fellow Program.