Landing a job in journalism doesn't just depend on your writing skills — it’s often about the extra experiences and preparation you bring to the table. Travel, educational specialties, volunteer (0) WORK, knowledge 1 languages or different cultures are experiences that could give you that leading edge 2 the competition. Before you apply, 3 time with the newspaper you're hoping to write for. You might find past issues in your college or journalism school library, or you 4 get a one-month subscription. Read the paper, then study it. Is it well organised? Are features and sections easy to locate? Does it carry information that is useful to someone new 5 the area? Are the stories interesting, informative and balanced? Jot 6 your impressions on the paper's strengths and weaknesses. Learn the basics about the paper: 7 major market, circulation, history 8 traditions.