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College Quote by Joe Klein

“When I started in the press there were really ink-stained wretches. Not everybody went to college. Now, everybody at the New York Times and the Washington Post and Salon and Slate, most of them have Ivy League educations.” quote by Joe Klein
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“When I started in the press there were really ink-stained wretches. Not everybody went to college. Now, everybody at the New York Times and the Washington Post and Salon and Slate, most of them have Ivy League educations.”

Joe Klein

About This Quote

Journalism has shifted from a trade learned on the job to a profession dominated by elite academic credentials.

In simple terms: Journalism now favors Ivy League graduates over practical experience.

Key Takeaway

Recognize the value of diverse backgrounds in media.

Themes

media education elitism career paths

Mood

critical reflective

Type

observational analytical

When to use this quote

  • newsrooms
  • hiring practices
  • career advice
  • media criticism

Key Concepts

credentialism social mobility professionalization

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does academic prestige affect news quality?
  • What can be done to value experience more?
A Different Perspective

Overemphasis on degrees may overlook talent and real‑world skills.

3.2 out of 5 (4 ratings)

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