Journalism in a young man’s self-discovery

[First assignment for J109, a profile of a classmate]

It is not surprising for Jan Lorenz to be pursuing a degree in Journalism, being very politically-aware, opinionated, and almost always the first one to speak up in class discussions. It is surprising to note, though, that his interest and passion for the field was almost non-existent when he was in high school.

“It was just a whim,” Lorenz said of his being a part of his school organ in high school. He was a part of the paper for three years, but the highest position he got was as being the circulation manager during his senior year. “In short, tagadistribute ng dyaryo room-to-room,” he said rather bluntly.

He entered UP as a Mathematics major, but after a year, he knew it was not for him. He once said that as a kid, he was rather talkative; always had something to say be it on petty things or national issues. Politics fascinate him, and his position lies on center-left because he thinks the European model would be best for the country. He is also very much interested in Economics, particularly in macro-economics. He is of the opinion that the Keynesian model of economics, which is capitalism with appropriate government intervention, would be most effective. And so with all these ideas and drive for getting his message across, he had decided to pursue Journalism.

After a year in the degree program, Lorenz is doing well, doing what he is passionate about. He is bent on becoming a media practitioner in the near future. In fact, he is determined to become a television commentator on social and national issues. He said that he does not want to be the kind who feeds the viewers opinion, but as one who presents all the information needed for the viewers to form their own take on the issue.

It does seem that Lorenz is more inclined to be a part of the broadcast media. As early as now, he is keen on being a part of ABS-CBN’s Anime Council, making use of the anime otaku (a Japanese word roughly translated as “geek”) in him. This Anime Council is the television network’s circle of Japanese anime enthusiasts who would give their opinion and suggestion on the anime series to be aired on the station, and Lorenz has a lot to share, being an anime fan for years now.

This job is a tad far from his ultimate goal of becoming a television news commentator, but Lorenz is sure on his way there. He may have realized his passion on becoming a media practitioner a wee bit late, but he undoubtedly has the makings of a budding journalist.