Failing at Journalism Today

Frederick Cole is the epitome of the “old school” newspaper editor. With his white hair and ruddy complexion, the 83 year-old Cole still makes a presence. A firm grip and nice blue suit shows the more traditional mentality of Cole. His opinions are many and his experience speaks volumes as to why he believes them to be true.

“The newsroom was an education,” said Cole while talking about his beginnings in the industry. “We had sports reporters who knew the archaeology of Greece, and city editors who could recite French poetry. Not many. But enough to tell a kid that there was more to this business than fires and murders. I learned it all.”

He smiles and nods as questions are asked, disproving his famous ogre-like persona as an editor. He has lots of opinions and isn’t afraid to state them, even going as far as to give specific style errors. Cole believes that taking action by looking at the weaknesses of journalism today and then doing something about them is next step in creating optimum quality of work.

“We're getting too many hopefuls who lack a background in economics, literature, philosophy, sociology and the natural sciences. They know little of local government. And they can't even report to the office on time,” said Cole about today’s budding journalists.

So with all of the negative and rather pessimistic thoughts Cole has about journalism today, does he offer any solutions? Of course.

“We want young reporters who have enough imagination to go after the stories that are not usually done and to write them with a style and flair that will excite our readers,” said Cole.

Cole has advice for educators as well.

“My advice to journalism educators is: You should be turning out graduates who want jobs in the general practice of journalism rather than specialization. That will come later.

If students can't dig, write or spell, counsel them—or flunk them out. You'll be doing them a favor, for we don't want them,” said Cole.

“Many students are going to be terribly disappointed because they simply are in the wrong field. Journalism requires an outlook, a mental discipline, a curiosity and, above all, a willingness to work hard day and night,” said Cole.

The “old school” toughness that Cole displays is not some kind of grandiose, ego-driven lip service. It is based solely on his experience over the last 67 years in journalism.