# @msujschool on Facebook

- **Type:** Image
- **Original URL:** https://www.facebook.com/1588490806402984/posts/10156321350108666
- **Gondola URL:** https://gondola.cc/posts/68589914-msujschool-facebook
- **Thumbnail:** https://img.gondola.cc/tr:w-,h-,fo-auto/postThumbnails/a0f2cd9afb.jpg
- **Posted:** 2019-02-22T13:00:01.000+00:00

## Caption

It is #Five4Friday time!
 
Nick Mordowanec 
https://twitter.com/NickMordo 
B.A. 2010
Staff Writer, C&G Newspapers (Warren, Michigan)
 
Q: What do you love about your job?
A: It may sound odd but I love my job because of the inconsistencies. It's like a controlled chaos due to the news cycle dictating what I cover and when I cover it. This makes the profession very unique because every day and week presents new challenges and new opportunities. And when you work behind the scenes, talking to sources and doing background research, you gain a look into how things operate in a way most people don't often care or realize. It's exhilarating to one second be writing at your desk, and minutes later driving across town to cover a breaking story.

Q: How did your experience at the J-School prepare you for your career?
A: I took as many classes as I could that would make me a more well-rounded journalist. That included studying sports journalism, environmental journalism, ethics and FOIA-related subject matter. Capital News Service senior year was a privileged experience. The professors were knowledgeable and available, able to offer personal tips for succeeding in what can be a rough industry. They also didn't sugarcoat things, which was difficult at the time but later made me a better writer and reporter. Being part of a college where people are talented and everyone has similar goals and interests leads to a fun and competitive atmosphere. I arguably learned the most through interactions with other students.

Q: What do you miss most about MSU?
A: I miss a lot about MSU. It's hard to believe it's almost been a decade since I graduated. There were the CATA rides at 8 a.m. when temperatures hovered around subzero. Football tailgates. Eating at different dorm cafes. Burgerama at The Riv. Long Islands at Peanut Barrel. Menna's delivered. Gumby's Pokey Stix (RIP). Not having Friday classes senior year. But what I miss most is the people, especially the dozens of friends I made -- many of whom I still talk to and see. I've even stood up in some of their weddings, played with their toddlers and have gone on cross-country trips. Green and white does last for life.

Q: What advice do you have for our current JRN students?
A: Expect the unexpected. The industry is rapidly changing, jobs fluctuate and all you can do is your best and hope that others in the business take a liking to the work you do. I graduated in the midst of a major recession, so it gave me a new perspective on how important it is to work hard and slug along. Your first or second job likely won't be your dream job. Build your portfolio, write about different subjects, set personal goals. Also, read a lot! Staying educated and informed are your best assets, and others will recognize it through your own work.

Q: What do you wish you had learned/done at MSU that you missed out on?
A: When I look back at my MSU experience, regrets are minimal. I ventured out of my comfort zone to meet new people, talk to educated instructors and absorb the entire experience. I worked in journalism groups outside class and wrote for various publications. The days were long, and so were the nights. If anything, I wish I knew then what I knew now, but that sums up the entire college experience. Confidence in yourself really goes a long way. Go Green!

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## Tags

five4friday

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