I want to be an English news anchor, magazine editor or journalist

I am a student of Std XII (Humanities). I want to be an English news anchor, magazine editor or journalist but I am confused as to which one I should pursue. Please help me learn about the career options in Journalism and Mass Communication. I also want to know about the eligibility, entrance exams, and pay package so that I can take the right decision.
Namrata Yugavrata (17) / Assam

Though one of the most exacting and strenuous of all careers, journalism furnishes an opportunity for self-expression and the chance to affect social change. The prospect of meeting leading men and women is an added bonus of being in this field.

A Bachelors in Mass Communication is a three-year course, for which eligibility is 10+2 in any stream. Generally, institutes conduct their own entrance test followed by an interview for the selection of suitable candidates. The objective of these tests is to judge awareness of current events and the essential skills required for a conscientious journalist. Personal qualities rather than training are more important for becoming a good journalist.

An element of show business comes with the job of a news anchor — not only do you need to be comfortable in front of the camera, but you need to connect with the audience so that people want to watch you as opposed to your competition.

In the early years of one’s career, journalism does not pay the big bucks like other professions. National newspapers and popular commercial magazines pay the best, but of course, they hire very few people without experience. Initially, just slog on with the sole aim of gaining experience. Once you gain that invaluable experience, salaries begin to catch up very fast.