Chances/Alternative Journalism Programs

[Samiam277]

Hi everyone.  I'm beginning to look at graduate programs in journalism for autumn of 2015.  I'm not really sure where I stand in the scope of applicants.  This is my abbreviated resume:

 

-Graduated Magna Cum Laude (3.86) from Southern Oregon University in 2011 with a Bachelor's of English.

-2.5 years of experience teaching English abroad in the Republic of Georgia and South Korea (including extensive travel throughout eastern Europe and Asia).

-Chief editor for a weekly column at a rock climbing nonprofit initiative in Korea for 1 year

-Articles, interviews, and features published in a number of major climbing magazines and on prominent LGBTQ news websites.

-Very strong references.

 

I've done a lot of editing work at the climbing nonprofit, and my writing is strong.  I think my portfolio is decent, but a lot of people going to the top schools seem to be driving for top news magazines, which is neither where my experience is nor where I want to be in the future.

That said, anything aside from the top 10 schools seems to be some sort of embedded master's in communication program rooted in digital media theory, and not the sort of concrete journalism program I'm looking for.

 

#1-Based on my experience, do you think I have a realistic shot at getting into one of the top journalism programs (and also obtaining funding)?

#2-Any suggestions on journalism-specific programs that are less competitive, in the event that my resume is not competitive?

 

Thanks so much

-Sam

Edited August 27, 2014 by Samiam277