As a journalism student, you probably know how to write, interview, and fact-check but not necessarily how to turn those skills into a career. And that’s normal. Learning the craft is one thing. Finding your place in the industry is another.
Internships are a common way to learn how newsrooms work and get published, but you often have to wait for the right opportunity, relocate or work for little pay — which isn’t always possible. And with permanent editorial jobs shrinking, the path into the profession isn’t as straightforward as it used to be.
That’s why freelancing can be a practical way to break in — or to explore the formats and topics you enjoy most.
Freelancers usually contribute to different outlets without being on staff. You come up with an idea, send it to an editor, and if they’re interested, they’ll commission the piece and pay you for that assignment. There’s no employment contract, so you manage your own schedule, workload and taxes.
If you can spot a good story that resonates with an audience, you can freelance from anywhere. Even without media connections. That’s how I started over 10 years ago, while working other jobs.
Here are a few things I’ve learned along the way, that can help you get your freelance career started:
Start with one strong idea
You don’t need a groundbreaking scoop. Great stories can begin with something you’ve noticed in your community or a timely question worth exploring.
What matters is having a specific idea, not just a general topic. For example, instead of writing about student mental health, you might focus on peer-led mental health support models colleges use to help students and reduce stigma.
Editors prefer a single, well-developed proposal over a list of unfocused options, so stick to one idea at a time — and make sure it goes beyond breaking news or press releases the newsroom is likely already tracking.
You can stand out by offering to cover something they may not have the time, access, or insight to take on. One way to do this consistently is by developing a niche. It’s not essential, but subject-area expertise can help you spot fresh angles. I started out writing about the arts, drawing on my background in art history, then shifted to gender and representation in the sector and eventually expanded into broader issues.
Send a good pitch
A pitch is a short, professional email where you explain your story idea to an editor and suggest reporting it for their publication.
Keep your subject line simple, like “Pitch” and a working title, and include:
- A strong angle or headline:
It shows your idea is focused. If you can’t write a headline, your pitch might still be too broad.
- Why now:
Explain the story’s relevance. Is it tied to a current event, trend or seasonal hook?
- A summary:
A few lines on what you’d report, how you’d approach it and why it matters for their audience. If you bring something unique — access, lived experience, expertise — mention it.
- Potential sources:
You’re expected to suggest who you’d interview. You don’t need confirmed names, just a plan to reach the right people.
- Links to past work:
Don’t worry if you don’t have traditional bylines yet. You can link to a student article, blog post or newsletter to show your writing style.
Unless an outlet asks for a full draft — usually for essays or opinion pieces — always pitch your idea first so the editor can help shape the piece.
For inspiration, you can browse examples on Journo Resources and The Open Notebook.
Find the right editor
Once your pitch is ready, the next step is figuring out where to send it.
Most publications list contacts on their website. Some have pitching guidelines or dedicated emails for submissions. If not, look for commissioning, managing or section editors (like features, culture, or opinion) — not reporters — and check their social media bios for email addresses.
Keep an eye out for open calls on Bluesky, LinkedIn or X to find out who’s currently accepting pitches. Newsletters like Freelance Writing Jobs, Journo Resources –The Opportunities or The Writer’s Job Newsletter are also great for staying updated.
If you don’t hear back within seven to 10 days, it’s okay to send a short, polite follow-up. Don’t take it personally. Editors are busy, and your idea might not be the right fit. But you can still pitch it elsewhere.
Clarify expectations
If your pitch is accepted, the editor will usually confirm the deadline, word count and fee. If anything is missing, don’t be afraid to ask.
The story might shift slightly from your original idea — be open to suggestions, but speak up if something feels unclear or off-track.
Some publications send a contributor agreement; others confirm the details over email. Either way, make sure you’re aligned on what you’re delivering, when it's due, how much you’ll be paid and when.
To check typical rates, visit Who Pays Writers or Rate for the Job.
Build relationships
A sustainable freelance career relies on consistency. Meeting deadlines, being responsive and delivering clean copy goes a long way. If you’re running into delays or something’s unclear, flag it early. It shows professionalism.
When I was starting out, I kept reaching out to the editors who had given me my first breaks. By building on those relationships, instead of chasing many different bylines, I eventually started getting assignments without even needing to pitch.
You don’t need to network in the traditional sense — I didn’t. I just kept sending ideas and trying to match what editors were expecting.
Join a community
One of the best things you can do early on is connect with others.
Don’t underestimate your peers. Your classmates today may be editors tomorrow. Share resources, swap opportunities and support each other. Many of the most useful things I’ve learned came from conversations with other journalists.
Being part of a community also makes it easier to handle rejection — you’ll see everyone gets turned down often.
Check online groups like Freelancing for Journalists or The Society of Freelance Journalists. You don’t have to figure it all out alone.
Photo by Charlotte May via Pexels.
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