The evolving definition of who qualifies as a journalist can be a daunting idea for students aspiring to enter the field of journalism, but it can also be incredibly appealing. Entering a constantly changing and evolving industry can feel challenging to prepare for, but the rise of digital media has opened doors for everyday people to create and share news. Social media platforms allow anyone with a phone to report breaking news. For instance, during major events like protests or natural disasters, ordinary people often capture and share footage online before traditional news outlets can respond. This shift means professional journalists no longer have a monopoly on news creation, fundamentally altering how news is produced and consumed. While this has its positives, it also raises concerns, as citizen journalists may not always have the same responsibility to verify facts as professionals, leading to the potential for misinformation.

The 24/7 news cycle demands constant updates, pushing news organizations to produce content quickly and frequently. As a result, news updates tend to be shorter and less in-depth, with long-form interviews or investigative pieces often viewed as less practical unless the subject matter is evergreen. The rise of convergence and modular content, where stories are broken into smaller, shareable pieces like videos, articles, and social media posts, allows for greater engagement and accessibility. For example, a news package presented in multiple formats can help audiences better understand the subject matter. This approach to news caters to diverse audiences and ensures information is available in real time.