Aaron Besecker of the Buffalo News made an appearance at the University at Buffalo on March 10th, 2020, to have a chat with Keith McShea’s UB English 397 class. Aaron did not give us the typical presentation like a guest would usually do. Instead, he was asked questions from students, almost like a press conference with the media. A lot has been learned about Aaron Besecker
Aaron started discussing his beginnings prior to his job today. Originally, he did not take journalism at college. So, what did he go for before journalism? Before journalism, he was sociology major at UB as well. He said that he did not saw himself as being a sociologist. Eventually, he started journalism and ended up graduating in 2002, not that long ago! Five years later, he got himself a job at the Buffalo News covering mostly serious crimes, interviews, incidents, and court cases.
During his appearance at UB, he was asked how many stories did the Buffalo News want from him. He clearly stated That the Buffalo News did not need a specific number of stories just as long as they are on time.
“I got 92 stories in 90 days”, Besecker explained.
Usually, as he mentioned, that there is one item published a day. He showed the class on the website, using one of his own articles as an example, what time the article was updated, published, and the date it was officially published.
He was asked how often he is at home when it comes to reporting. He said that he does not do that anymore! What? You mean, he has done that before? Yes, he said that if he had found a story, he usually chases after it until he stopped leaving his home all the time. Nowadays, he cares about working hard while he is at work or not at work. He once mentioned that he was up until 1 a.m., at home, finishing a story and publishing it on the Buffalo News website.
Someone asked if he balances criticism on perfection.
“Don’t read the comments!” Besecker said.
He was explaining to everyone that readers criticising him or constantly point out his mistakes in an article really bothers him. After explaining why, he mentioned that he tries to be open to what they say, but instead they like to poke fun or just be obnoxious about little mistakes he makes.
“Some people are coming at it from a different perspective!”
Towards the end of his appearance, he was asked if people should pursue a job in journalism? Was he able to answer that question easily? Yes he can!
“Just go with your eyes open!” he suggested.
Even though he mentioned that there are fewer journalism jobs, he means that if you feel like journalism is a good career choice, then go right ahead and do it. There is no one stopping you from it. He also meant that just believe what is best for you and what your future lies ahead!
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