Jonathan Wolfington: “Take advantage of the training provided by the School of Advanced Journalism!”
How credible and objective is the media in Moldova, what are the chances it offers to young journalists and what should we do to improve the situation of the media in this country? These are some of the topics SAJ students discussed at the new Discussion Club with guest Jonathan (Jed) Wolfington, press officer of the U.S. Embassy.
The meeting began with a presentation of the School of Advanced Journalism. Our guest was curious to find out from SAJ students why they chose this particular profession and where they see themselves in five years from now. The majority of young people said that for them journalism was mostly a challenge, and the School was the best starting point to launch a career in this special profession.
During the meeting students also had an opportunity to learn about the situation of the media in the United States and to speak about the problems that journalists are facing there. “In America the government is not an absolute power. Journalists and the media have the most authority”, said the guest. He noted that improvement is possible in Moldova, too, and it is just up to its citizens to want it. “It is of vital importance to value freedom of expression and start improvement step by step,” noted the diplomat.
At the end of the meeting, Jonathan Wolfington watched a newscast done by SAJ students for the course of TV Journalism. He encouraged students to apply to various international programs for journalists and came up with advice: “Use every opportunity that you have. Follow your dreams and be the best in what you choose to do after graduation. Take the most of the courses and trainers. Be yourselves!” said the guest.