On Wednesday, Feb. 16, the Communication Department will be hosting a Women in Journalism panel discussion for students who are interested in a career in journalism. This event will be held in the Garey Café at 5 p.m. The flyer advertising the event says, “Panelists will discuss their experiences in journalism and look at what the field’s future holds. There will be a Q&A session afterward.” 

There will be five panelists joining the event, all who hold high positions within or write for well-known Philadelphia area magazines and newspapers. The panel will include: Kate Dailey, deputy managing editor of the Philadelphia Inquirer, Kim Douglas, managing editor of the Main Line Today Magazine, Stephanie Farr, a staff writer for the Philadelphia Inquirer, Dana O’Neil, a senior writer for The Athletic and Elizabeth Wellington, a columnist for the Philadelphia Inquirer. 

This event will be especially beneficial for female students within the Communication or related majors who are looking to pursue a career in journalism. Results from a study titled “Status of Women in the US Media” reports that newspaper newsrooms are 63.1% male, compared to 36.9% female. These statistics are daunting, but the panel being offered by next week’s event is enough to prove that it is doable for women who want to get into the field. Although this event is titled “Women in Journalism,” there is something to be gained for everyone who attends. 

“This is an excellent opportunity for anyone who is interested in journalism to learn about the field from some true professionals,” said Michael Bradley, an Assistant Instructor in the Communication Department. “They will discuss their experiences as journalists and provide a look into the future of the industry.” 

Make sure to attend the event to hear from professionals within the field and gain true insight on what it is like to work as a journalist in a major city.