"Got what it takes to be a reporter?" survey

I enjoy reading. I consume a lot of books and magazines.
Mostly true - 2 pts

For me, writing is rewarding. And I am confident that people genuinely enjoy the stuff I write.
Not true

I don't pay much attention to spelling. My grammar and punctuation probably ain't great, either.
Not true - 2pts

I'm generally adept at computer technology: sending email, downloading files, shooting digital photos, etc.
Mostly true - 1pt

I can organize my ideas and write quickly when I need to.
Mostly true - 2 pts

I'd make a good game show contestant because I'm pretty good at remembering facts and trivia.
Not true

I'm efficient and self-sufficient when it comes to doing extensive library or Internet research.
Mostly true - 2pts

I'm generally more curious than most people I know.
Not true.

In public situations, I'm pretty shy; I avoid asking questions in class, for instance.
Mostly true

I think it's unpatriotic to question or criticize our government.
Not true - 1 pt

When I choose a career, I'll require a stable, 9-to-5 job where my workday is routine and I make big money.
Not true - 3 pts

If I really want something, I'm tenacious until I get it.
Not true

When I'm under pressure, I can keep my cool and stay focused without losing my temper.
Mostly true - 1 pt

When strangers or teachers criticize what I write, it really bugs me. I mean, who do they think they are?
Not true - 2 pts



I feel that the test asked the right questions, but that it didn't give enough wiggle room. I'm at a point in my life where a lot of things are changing for me, so some of the answers I agreed with while the other half I didn't. I believe that once I've become more outgoing and organized then I'll be able to manage a job as a reporter or journalist.

3 Leads

Lead #1: Time -- yesterday. Where -- Butte County Court. Who -- a local couple was in a traffic accident in March. They sued. Yesterday, the two were awarded $150,000 in damages. They had suffered injuries. That's what the damages were for.

A local couple who had been involved in a traffic accident in early March received $150,000 in damages yesterday.

(Edited: A local couple received $150,000 in damages yesterday because of a car accident in which they were injured in March).

Lead #2: What -- a snowstorm. So what? Well, another is expected. Forecasters say it will hit the Sierras today. It's part of a series of snowstorms.

A heavy snowstorm is expected to hit the Sierra Mountains today, and forecasters say to prepare for more coming this week.

Lead #3: Who -- three firefighters and 41 families. What -- the firefighters were injured; the families were evacuated. Why -- a fire roared through their six-story building. Who said -- the police. Where -- the building was located at 204 Union Ave. When -- today.


Forty-one families were removed from a housing facility located on 204 Union Ave. as a fire destroyed the building today. Three firefighters were injured during the evacuation according to the police.

(Edited: Three firefighters were injured today while rescuing 41 families from a burning building located on 204 Union Ave according to the police.)

First blog

My name is Kaajal, and I'm hoping to become a journalist with a magazine concentration.

I'd like to learn more about how to write news and the type of reporting that would involve. I love learning about mass media in general. It fascinates me greatly to see how much the media affect people.