As a journalism student, learning about the Society of Professional Journalists’ Code of Ethics has been eye-opening and inspiring. These four core principles — Seek truth and report it, minimize harm, act independently, and be accountable and transparent — are more than just guidelines; they’re the foundation of trustworthy journalism. Understanding the responsibility that comes with reporting the truth has made me realize how powerful and influential a journalist’s role can be. I’m especially struck by the balance between being truthful and minimizing harm — it’s not just about getting the story first but getting it right and handling it with care. These ethics will guide you, not only in the classroom, but also in every piece you write, every source you interview, and every decision you make as you work toward becoming a responsible and credible journalist.
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