NAHJ’s NXT GEN NOW event focuses on future journalists

From Mar. 14 to the 16, Cal State Fullerton’s chapter of the National Association of Hispanic Journalists (NAHJ) held several panels about the journalism field to prepare students for their future.

NAHJ’s event, NXT GEN NOW, went over different topics, niches and fields relating to journalism over Zoom. NXT GEN NOW is an event where NAHJ prepares the next generation of journalists for the ever-changing field.

“This event is aimed for students who have not yet decided on a career path in journalism. As well, we hope that by hearing from professionals, students who are interested in a specific career field in journalism, they will be able to polish their journalism skills and knowledge even more,” said, Robert Rodriguez, NAHJ’s public relations specialist.

On Tuesday, Mar. 14, a presentation was given by Michael Thomas, a morning reporter for KRON4 News Team. Thomas explained his daily routine as a morning news reporter. He said one of the main struggles is finding a subject to interview early in the morning since most people are barely awake or are still sleeping.

Norma Ribeiro, a reporter for Telemundo 52, held a presentation on Wednesday, Mar. 15, about the challenges that women face in journalism. Ribeiro’s essential advice for students is to not only seek answers when interviewing a person. She said it is crucial to listen to them and get to know them personally to gain a connection.

On Thursday, Mar. 16, the presentation was titled “Sports Reporting 101.” Jesus Quiñonez is a sports anchor and reporter for Telemundo Nueva Inglaterra, a Spanish news broadcast station in New England. He said that the role of a sports reporter is to cover news on sports events, teams, athletes, and fans. Quiñonez advised future journalists to report on a sport they are passionate about.

After each of the presentations, students were able to network and ask questions. CSUF’s NAHJ chapter aims to host this event annually during the spring semester.