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Asian-American journalists meet in Houston

By Samira Zaidi
News Reporter

The Texas chapter of the Asian American Journalists Association met for the first time in Houston on Saturday, giving local journalists and journalism students an opportunity to hear from experienced professionals in the field.

About 25 people attended the meeting held in Melcher Hall, which included guest presentations by John Wilburn, assistant managing editor at the Houston Chronicle, and Don Kobos, assistant news editor at KTRK-TV, Houstonis ABC affiliate.

"It is always good to have leaders in journalism speak to the group," said Maricar Estrella, president of the Texas chapter of AAJA and assistant city editor at the Fort Worth Star-Telegram. "Itis good for the younger members to be able to hear these experienced journalists, who are not just Asian-Americans."

According to Estrella, recent studies have shown that many Asian-American journalists are leaving the business because they see no room for advancement.

"Our big problem is keeping them in the business," she said. "We want to get more Asian-Pacific journalists involved."

Almost half the members in AAJA are students, said Estrella, and the chapter is proposing an addition of a student representative to the executive board.

"This will help us keep in touch with studentsi needs," she said. 

Angie Joe, media specialist in the UH Office of External Communications and an AAJA member, helped arrange the venue for the meeting. 

"This was a good opportunity for us to get together in Houston," she said.

Although Joe doesnit work in a traditional newsroom, she said that Asian Americans were slowly integrating into the communications business.

Joe said the best way for an Asian-American student to get involved in journalism is to be active.

"Ask questions and find a mentor ­ someone who will offer you sound advice ­ and join organizations so you can keep up with new trends," she said.
 

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