What was your first job as a journalist?
My first job was working in the office of the local radio station in my small town. I mostly scheduled commercials and it was fun.
Have you ever used a typewriter?
I've only used a typewriter when I see them in antique stores and press the keys for fun. But never for work.
How is social media changing news?
I think a lot of (younger) people use social media as their go-to news source now. This can be a good or bad thing.
Who's your favorite fictional journalist?
Sue Charlton from Crocodile Dundee (1986).
What does it mean to be a journalist?
Being a journalist means you are providing a platform for those who deserve it most and doing so in an honest, ethical and effective way.
What's the funniest news-related #hashtag you've seen?
Sadly I'm not too up to date with hashtags!
How do you prefer to be pitched on stories?
I prefer to be contacted by email at justicepetersen1313@gmail.com.
What tools and software do you use to do your job?
I use Slack, Microsoft applications, Google applications, Wordpress, and many more.
What's your favorite social network?
Pinterest.
Who do you wish followed you?
If somebody really big in the music industry followed me that would be amazing. Somebody like Bob Rock or Rick Rubin.
Why did you become a journalist?
Growing up, I used to watch a lot of Headbanger's Ball on YouTube. It made me realize I too wanted to get to interview my favorite artists.
Did you work for your high school newspaper? If so, what did you do there?
Yes, but I didn't join until I almost graduated! I mostly did the fun editorial bits like photo of the week, teacher spotlights, etc.
What story are you most proud of writing or working on?
I wrote an interview with a band called Kiss Bang. I love their music and the interview was so fun; I think in the article it showed.
What advice can you offer to aspiring journalists?
Open yourself up to multiple beats. It doesn't mean you have to leave the one you love most. And don't risk ethics for a quick story.
When's the best time to pitch you?
I honestly check my email constantly, but it's best to pitch me in the morning and early afternoon.
What's the best pitch you ever got?
For Chicago Music Guide, my once editor asked if I was interested in interviewing Nita Strauss. As a big fan, I wasn't going to say no!
What's the worst pitch you ever got?
I do get confused when, as a music journalist, I get a pitch asking if I can cover a new line of espresso machines.
What's your favorite drink?
Coffee.
When you're not at a computer, where are you most likely to be?
When I'm not at my laptop, I'm most likely to be found at home with a cup of coffee, thrifting, record shopping, or front row at a concert.
Aside from your own, what's your favorite publication to read?
I love any rock focused publication, e.g. Revolver, Kerrang!, Creem, Alternative Press, etc. Also the NYTimes, Cosmo, and Interview.
What's the most common misperception about your beat?
Many people assume that if you're a music journalist then you've interviewed major celebrities. (Close, but not quite!)
