At the College of Communications Career Night 2002, founder of public relations firm Alyn-Weiss and Associates, Inc. and University of Illinois alum Robert Weiss called the University "the Harvard of journalism schools." He, along with the other Career Night panelists agreed that the University's reputation is highly regarded by potential employers and that the professional knowledge of the teaching staff of the journalism department is unparalleled.

Going to school is only the first step in building a career, though. In order to sharpen reporting, writing, editing, photography or broadcasting skills and get real newsroom experience, students should pursue journalism opportunities outside of class. At the University of Illinois there is something for everybody. A student-run newspaper, entertainment magazine, Web site, radio station and alumni newsletter are just some of the many local activities that students can pursue. The people running these entities agree; the work is hard, but it's rewarding and worth the time and effort.