Movies such as Shattered Glass place reporting in a very negative light. The movie retells the true story of journalist Steven Glass, who purposefully fabricated stories and sources. Yes, some journalists have fibbed and crossed the lines between right and wrong, but not every reporter deserves such slander.

Without journalists, newscasters, reporters and photographers working to get the news published, the world would be very uninformed. Journalism is a career that helps shape our modern society; information is constantly changing, and writers make it possible for citizens to keep up with incoming information.

But with anything remotely positive comes the slew of naysayers and crazy rumors. Hardworking, dedicated journalists are sometimes taken for granted and not trusted.

Occasionally, I receive the snide comment about how journalists have a bad reputation. Naysayers insinuate most in the reporting field are venomous, relentless story-hounds who will risk life, limb and breaking laws to get a good photo or fish out the latest tale.

Serious, professional journalists are often grouped into the same category as the ruthless paparazzi. It seems to be the general consensus that writers seldom have morals and will lie, cheat and twist reality to write the perfect story.

American journalist Ellen Goodman said of writers, “In journalism, there has always been a tension between getting it first and getting it right.” I strongly believe that in the game of ethics, most writers are concerned with being successful as long their professional integrity is maintained in the process.

As a journalism major, the course I plan to follow in my career are some of the things I am most proud to discuss. Writing is my ultimate passion; journalism has always been a subject that not only interests me but fits right into my future plans. It is just a path that is second nature for me to pursue.

I want to be in this industry for the purpose of interviewing musicians and bands. I would like to be in front of a person and quote him or her directly. There will be no blurred lines concerning whether my story is a farce or not. Untruths should be thrown away, and society should embrace the talent of journalists and writers alike — not group us with the few bad seeds.