Breaking into the conservative movement, particularly in the media, is no easy feat. It is not simply talent that gets you there: connections and being able to prove yourself are also required. Although difficult to penetrate, the realm of journalism does have windows of opportunity.
To enhance the chances of making it in the center-right media world, the Clare Booth Luce Policy Institute hosted the “Path to Punditry” workshop. Featured panelists included commentator S.E. Cupp, Regnery Publishing president Marji Ross, and National Review Online editor-at-large Kathryn Lopez.
“The idea for this came from you guys [the students],” said Cupp, author of Losing Our Religion. She remarked, “The industry [media] is notoriously closed-off.” She noted how hostile the respective environment is, but provided some reassuring words. She also quipped how she would prefer to be glitter-bombed if “Occupy Wall Street” interrupted her talk.
She was followed by Marji Ross, who discussed how to publish books. Ross noted that hard work pays off in the realm of publishing. “Work really hard. Start your job well. End your job well,” she added.
The final speaker, Kathryn Lopez, talked about her involvement with National Review Online. She talked about the importance of fostering connections and getting involved in political journalism. “There’s no such thing as too much honesty,” said Lopez. “Hard work pays off.”
After their imparting their words of wisdom, all three ladies answered questions and gave advice to aspiring pundits in the audience. The students in the crowd were thrilled to receive advice from such a highly successful panel.
Clare Boothe Luce Policy Institute intends to host similar workshops on campuses in the future. Aspiring pundits will benefit from opportunities like this, and be equipped with the necessary skills to land their dream job.
