The first semester of studies at the School of Advanced Journalism started with initiation into the world of the media. The three-day course of “Introduction to Journalism” gave an overview of the structure of the Moldovan media space and of journalistic principles. The School’s director Sorina Stefarta worked with students as their trainer.

The course was mostly theoretical and began with discussions about the role and functions of the media in a modern society. Students received explanations about information collections techniques, about approaches to topics in the media, and about such notions as objectivity, credibility, impartiality, sources of information and relations with them, correctness and journalistic ethics.

Who the journalist is, what his qualities are, what a modern journalist lacks, and why reputation matters – these issues were also discussed during the course. The SAJ director pointed out some of the most important qualities of a journalist. According to her, he must, above all, be curious, have a developed spirit of observation, always ask questions and seek answers.

A reporter must work for his public and take into account the interests of his viewer, listener, or reader. “The journalist is not a simple passerby. He is the one who sees what others don’t see. It takes a lot of work and dedication,” concluded Sorina Stefarta at the end of the course.