Journalist and former writer for newspaper educates Delaware Tech Georgetown campus students.

By Piper Edge

Reporter Gwen Guerke spoke to Delaware Tech’s digital storytelling class about her experience as a journalist on April 10, 2019. Guerke was then interviewed by these students in efforts to further their knowledge of the journalist field.

Guerke had not attended school with sights to be a journalist, in fact she was an english major in college. Guerke said that when her friend offered her a position at the Milford Chronicle, she figured she would “try her luck.”

A brief history of journalism.

Guerke is filmed by Delaware Tech communication student. (Photo by Piper Edge)

Due to the economic recession of 2008, Guerke left newspaper briefly for marketing, but then returned working in what she referred to as “corporate communications.”

Guerke remained a journalist for the next 35 years and embraced all of the technological advances over time. She began her career at the Milford Chronicle using entirely typewriters and film with only a one person to proofread. Now, as Guerke says, “In today's world it’s not all paper.” Now there are much more roles to be filled in a production team and most of the news society receives today is digitally through their phones or computers.

The six struggles of journalism.

When asked by a student how Guerke feels about society's technological changes in relations to journalism, Guerke said that it has turned the profession into a “double-edged sword.” She said that because news must be pushed out to society fast, it leaves a lot of room for untrustworthy and overall fake news to spread.

How Journalist are battling fake news.

Guerke said that many people don’t know how much work actually goes into professional journalism and broadcasting and therefor take it for granted.

“Society does not value communication skills anymore” Guerke said. “Everyone has a smartphone they can use.”

Guerke answers students questions relevant to Journalism. (Photo by Piper Edge)

Despite the constant moving and following of corporate protocol Guerke faces in her profession, she still believes that she learns something new everyday and loves interacting with the people she works with and interviews.

Guerke told the students that big newspaper companies are struggling and journalism itself may be at risk in the future however, Guerke had something to say to the students that have a dream to work in journalism.

“First, get more education and learn more skills. It’s a competitive market. Then you will get a job.” Guerke said.