Iowa Journalist Article #1

Capecchi dives head first into freelance

 

By Ross Koppenhaver

One day she might be writing a column for a Catholic paper, the next she could be covering breaking news for The New York Times or writing an online article for MinnPost.com. But it all stems from one major theme: It would be hard to find something that freelance journalist Christina Capecchi wouldn’t enjoy diving into.

Yearning to learn more While visiting with students from the School of Journalism and Mass Communication, freelance journalist Christina Capecchi describes her love for learning something new every day. Photo by Justin Hoehn 

Capecchi has written about topics that are all over the spectrum, from why more and more brides are getting Botox before their big day to why television news anchors are getting antsy with the high definition revolution.

But without a doubt, Capecchi would say that her greatest passion is discovering more. More about people, more about places, more about those interesting little nuances that are begging to be discovered. Not unlike her story regarding the devaluation the term "friend" after the Facebook boom.

Capecchi enjoys everything to do with being a journalist.

"I love it so much- you get to be a student everyday." Capecchi said.



She was initially drawn to journalism because it seemed more practical to her than some of the fiction she was writing. Capecchi earned her masters degree from Northwestern and quickly got linked up with MinnPost.com just as the website got started.

But life is a little different for freelance writers, and can prove even more challenging in this tough economic time. For freelancers, their ideas are their currency, and as Capecchi knows, being able to market yourself is very important.

"Whenever there is a crisis, there is always an opportunity for a story." Capecchi said.

But as all good freelance journalists know, they always need to be looking forward to their next big goal to tackle. For Capecchi, she is looking towards being a more active contributor towards New York Magazine and National Public Radio. She is always looking for the next big publication to which she can contribute. Capecchi also does a small podcast, but would like to do something on a bit of a larger scale.

Capecchi also recognizes the importance of not being discouraged in these tough times. Stressing the importance of developing the ability to find good stories and remembering to be hardworking, humble and helpful are qualities that Capecchi suggests and employs.

But one thing is certain, despite these hard times, Capecchi wouldn’t change a thing.

"I can’t imagine changing careers."