Chris Shearn leaves remarks on the school

November 3, 2016

Chris Shearn speaks at the school about his journalism career. Photo attribution to Kay Kim.

by Kay Kim, editor in chief

On Wednesday, Chris Shearn from YES Network joined the school’s publications classes for a chat.

Chris Shearn grew up in New Jersey as a Yankees fan. As a student, he showed interest in sports, especially baseball, which ultimately led him to his present career.

In the early years of his career, he worked at MSNBC. At his prior job, he served as a producer, editor, and scriptwriter.

“I was able to write scripts, edit, and touch equipments. I answered the phone for call-in shows,” Chris Shearn explained about his work experience at MSNBC.

Then, he joined the YES Network prior to its 2002 launch. Currently, he holds various positions. He is an anchor, an on-field reporter, scripter, editor, and more. According to the YES Network profiles, he is the “Yankees Batting Practice Today host, Yankees and Nets Pre- and Post-game host”. He described himself as the “everything man”.

Shearn briefly introduced himself and his career as a journalist. He then opened up the time for questions, regarding his career, personal interests, and advice.

“there are going to be people in your life who are going to tell you, you can’t do something.Instead of hiding, prove them wrong” #wjpsnews

— Janae (@JanaeK_wjps) October 26, 2016

One student question was, “How do you cover something you are not interested in.”

Chris Shearn’s response was, “Doesn’t matter if you don’t like it. It’s your job. Broaden your horizon.”

During his earlier years, Chris Shearn had to report on a soccer game. Although he was not a soccer fan, he had to cover it because it was his duty. He advised students to be well-rounded journalists because the characteristic will be attractive to employers.

Today, an important aspect of journalism is Twitter. Twitter is considered the “news and information amplifier” by UC Berkeley Graduate School of Journalism. Because of Twitter’s rising use, Chris Shearn emphasized the importance of language.

“Beyond being first, be right. Report the facts. Think before you send. Language can kill your career. Your blood, sweat, and tears can go down within 140 characters,” Chris Shearn said.