The Difficulty of Gatekeeping(Blog #4 Kalem Wedemyer)

One of the hardest aspects of journalistic writing as a college student isn't necessarily becoming familiar with AP rules, but having to make the transition from academic writing. As university students, nearly every class requires that we write an essay or research paper in the academic style. In the academic style you are writing for a specific audience; your work is meant to be read by those familiar with the topic. Thus, you are allowed to use terms and language that the specific audience understands, but other audiences may not. On the contrary, the journalistic style requires that your work be as accessible as possible to everyone. Academic writing implements your knowledge of a subject to express an original thesis. Punctuation marks are often overused, sentences tend to be long-winded, and the reader must have knowledge in the subject to fully grasp the point. Journalistic writing, on the other hand, implements your ability to write clearly and respectfully, taking into account that your work is for the public. Furthermore, the AP style exists specifically to make journalistic writing consistent, and thus easier to access. While those writing for journalism can sometimes speak their opinion, it must be done in a respectful manner as not to offend. In academic writing, the best pieces pursue a thesis effectively and decisively, with little regard to whom may be offended. This contrast between clinical academic writing and respectful journalistic writing is what makes the transition difficult for many. The transition requires a level of thoughtfulness that isn't necessary in academic writing. We are no longer writing just for our professors. We are writing for everyone, so that they can be informed and make a difference. We must adapt to the journalistic style so that we may one day be the gatekeepers.