Mentoring the next generation of gadget bloggers
Late last year Peter and I began a mentorship program with some students of the Torah Academy of Bergen County; Eli, Chaim, and later Charlie and Tzvi got together to begin writing an editing a gadget blog aimed at teenagers casually interested in technology, dubbed the TeenTechBlog. These kids have definitely made a lot of progress over the past six months. Starting a site and following it through isn’t as easy as it looks, and they’ve have been continually upping their game despite their demanding school schedule.
I think the question I’m most often asked by people not already in the industry is, “How do I break into writing about technology?” The answer is pretty simple: start writing, keep writing (even when the initial luster has worn off, even if you’re not collecting droves of readers and scads of review units), and with any luck you’ll hone your skill and catch your break — not unlike the path the crew at TeenTechBlog are already on.
Three cheers for helping these kids out, way to give back a bit. And not afraid to train up the competition! :0)
Comment by Vance — Monday, June 2, 2008 @ 8:33 am
Though short, this is an inspiring post. I’ve started a few blogs writing about technology but could never figure out how to get that break - it just seems frustrating when you write for a year and don’t get many readers. It’s doubly hard when you don’t get breaking news releases, or responses back from PR folks when you ask them for information because you’re not a “real” news source.
Knowing that these kids who have school all day still have the dedication to ply this trade makes me think that maybe I could do it eventually, too.
Comment by John B. — Monday, June 2, 2008 @ 8:40 am
It’s really difficult to get noticed as an individual blogger — focus on doing things that others aren’t. Writing the news probably isn’t a good place to get your start, since very few people will read tech news outside the big pubs. Focus on thoughts, analysis, and covering new ground.
Comment by Ryan Block — Monday, June 2, 2008 @ 8:47 am
Ryan -I think this is totally great of you and Peter.
Kudos.
Adam
Comment by Adam Berger — Wednesday, June 4, 2008 @ 11:26 am
Hey thats my alma mater. Nicely done. You guys are both trailblazers and still provide the helping hand for those who follow.
Comment by Ari — Thursday, June 5, 2008 @ 11:47 am
What a great idea! Back in the day, I got my start by doing a “kids page” for a local weekly newspaper, and learned a lot. Kudos to you and Pete for helping create a 21st Century version of this for these kids!
Comment by Marc Perton — Friday, June 6, 2008 @ 6:35 am