What it takes to be a professional journalist

Spotlight on Ben Tsujimoto

Working overnight shifts at Tops Friendly Markets, Buffalo News reporter, Ben Tsujimoto, found himself wanting more out of life. Searching for meaning and purpose, Tsujimoto discovered a freelancing job at the Buffalo News–- an opportunity that filled a void in his life, changing it forever. Reflecting on his years of success, during a press conference held on March 31, 2025, he shared sound guidance for aspiring journalists.

Firstly, Tsujimoto’s story is inspirational. From working long, slow hours in a grocery store to writing stories in a newsroom, he proves that anything is possible and that life is unpredictable. Tsujimoto’s story is one of perseverance, as he slowly worked his way up at the Buffalo news from a freelancer to the reporter he is today.

Moreover, based on his years of experience, he provided useful advice for those interested in pursuing journalism as a career as well as great suggestions for a successful career. 

“Being friendly goes a long way” exclaims Tsujimoto. One of the many of the tips Tsujimoto shared can be applied to both everyday life and any other profession. 

Considering that a great portion of journalism is being in the community, gathering information from citizens, most commonly in the form of an interview, it is essential to be friendly. The citizens are providing key information, and this interview may be conducted during a very difficult time in their life; being friendly is the very least journalists can do. 

On top of being friendly, Tsujimoto noted how research before an interview is vital. Walking into an interview fully prepared means that you have researched them and the situation before getting there. Preparing for an interview or practicing beforehand ensures for a smooth, and successful experience for the interviewee and the journalist. 

Moreover, he addressed how having nerves before an interview is common and normal. One way he overcomes his anxiety is by, “Being as personable as I can…”. Tsujimoto shared how simply showing that you are pleasant to speak with goes a long way on both ends of the interview. During each interview, he remembers that the person he is interviewing is human, just as he is, and he is only there to ask a couple of questions.

Similarly, Tsujimoto added that “Not all people tell the truth…”. Discernment when interviewing people is crucial. Many people may not intentionally lie to journalists, but “some might spin the truth or have a delusional reality” he explains.

In regards to AI, Tsujimoto mentioned that he and many other journalists use a software called Otter.ai. Otter.ai transcribes conversations and according to Tsujimoto it is very useful when conducting interviews. He believes that AI is not yet powerful enough where it can be used daily, unless being used for transcription.

Other tips he briefly mentioned were the importance of internships and how he wishes he would have done some. Lastly, how working at a smaller paper is very helpful before working at a major news outlet. 

The press conference with Ben Tsujimoto provided insight on the journalism career and gave students an opportunity to gather first hand information from a current journalist. The advice he gave can be applied further than the newsroom. Most of the information he provided included being personable, honest, prepared and professional.

This conversation proved that a career in journalism may not be the easiest to obtain, but it is worth it. Aspiring journalists should look to successful journalists Ben Tsujimoto for inspiration and valuable lessons to be successful in journalism. 

More information about Ben Tsujimoto can be found here: https://buffalonews.com/users/profile/aaron%20besecker/

                                Aaron Besecker (left), Ben Tsujimoto (middle-left), Ellen Przepasniak (middle-right), and Keith McShea (right) photographed after Press Conference on March 31, 2025.  Photo by SKYLAR BARRONS | ENG 397- Digital/Broadcast Journalism.