11:00 am - 11:50 am — Data Viz 101

Learn how data visualization can help make complex stories easily digestible for your audience. CalMatters Data Reporter Jeremia Kimelman will walk you through the basics of data viz, what types of visualization work best for different data types, best practices and rookie mistakes to avoid.

Panelist: Jeremia Kimelman (Data Reporter at CalMatters)

(10 minute break)

12:00 pm - 12:50 pm — Thinking Like a Watchdog

The aim of the watchdog reporter is to hold powerful institutions and people accountable to the public that they are charged with serving. How do you do this, especially when those in power aren’t receptive to critical coverage? Our panel of journalists will discuss the questions that guide their reporting, how to deal with hostile sources, the publicly available tools at your disposal and how to report on people who have been negatively impacted by systemic problems.

Panelists:

Byrhonda Lyons (Justice Reporter/Video Journalist at CalMatters)

Robert Lewis (Investigative Reporter at CalMatters)

Sarah Brown (Senior Reporter at The Chronicle of Higher Ed)

(10 minute break)

1:00 pm - 1:50 pm— Early Career Survival Guide

The journalism industry needs new voices, especially those of journalists of color, queer journalists and others from backgrounds historically excluded from newsrooms. But navigating the job search can be tough. If you are feeling nervous about entering the industry, this panel is for you! Our panel of journalists will discuss their personal journeys and relay lessons learned navigating the newsroom as emerging reporters. We’ll also cover what to include in your cover letter, tips to make your application stand out to hiring managers and other practical advice to help you find your place in the industry.

Panelists:

Gabe Schneider (Story Partnerships and Collaborations Manager at Grist, Cofounder at The Objective)

Lexi McMenamin (Contributing Politics Editor at Teen Vogue, Organizer of The Zenith Cooperative)

Janelle Salanga (Northern California Reporter at CapRadio, Deputy Editor at The Objective)

CalMatters College Journalism Network Bootcamp