I must admit, for better or worse, that I am addicted to journalism.

It sounds dangerous, even unhealthy. However, I’ve come to realize that most of my time spent in front of the tube, or listening to the radio, has been an education. Whether it’s an episode of 30 Rock, a Saturday night spent solely with Hockey Night in Canada, or a “webisode” of MSNBC, I have taken a keen interest in the world around me and how its story is told through the world of broadcasting.

I believe that there will always be a place in this country, and this world, for accurate, honest newsman. I feel that those who are successful, those who are the best, have an ability to convey pure and hard news with an air of trust to the public. It’s why so many defining moments have been caught on news broadcasts, or why so many memorable sports moments go hand-in-hand with the work of announcers or commentators. I feel that broadcast journalism is an excellent way to bring truths and information into the homes of Canadians, Americans, and everyone else outside the northern majority of North America. I think it’s an exciting industry to get involved in, especially as globalization, syndication, and the use of online journalism breaks down barriers across the globe.

In turn, I have spent time researching my idols, knowing that neither Bob Costas nor Brian Williams have a university degree. I’ve leaned that Peter Jennings and Anderson Cooper rose to prominence on game shows. I know the annual salary and career background of both Lloyd Robertson and Peter Mansbridge.

I would like to reach this regional, national, or universal appeal. I spend my time reading the stories of pop culture icons, historical events, and (first and foremost) the world of sports. Hockey is my passion, but that has not halted my love for football, baseball, basketball, rugby, and soccer, or “less important” sports such as golf, tennis, and boxing. I feel proud to say that the back page is my front page.

My political science degree didn’t necessarily make me an expert in the realm of politics, history, or English, but it was a good start. As for my master’s degree in journalism, that’s another piece of paper. The only real experts in this field, I believe, are the doctors. They’re the professionals who work and succeed every day, and make us go to school so we can have a hope to someday do what they do. School has, however, enhanced my understanding of all my studies. I have also studied law, business, astronomy, and foreign languages – all with the hope of opening doors and keeping my options open.

I’ve bought books by Jack Kerouac and WB. Yeats, as well as 18 Eyewitness Travel Guides to places that I have no current plans to visit. I’ve rented both It’s a Wonderful Life and Ghosts of Girlfriends Past in the same visit to Rogers Video. I’m brimming with a desire to discover and experience, and my love for television, radio – and the art of broadcasting – is my vessel.

I feel that if I require the skills that you can teach me, I’ll have what I need to take it the rest of the way and fulfill what is, frankly, my dream. Until then, I will continue to watch Brian Williams and Matt Lauer highlights on YouTube and analyze the heroic qualities of Forrest Gump and George Bailey. I will continue to work my way through this business, all the while spending time in my favourite city, my hometown of Vancouver. All will go toward a growing educational and real-life experience.

I’m hoping that will include my time with you.