Watchdog Journalism.

I think that one of the most important roles of journalism is that of being a watchdog. It is empowering to me to think that I my job as a journalist is needed for the public--not only for informing them, but also in uncovering the truth of organizations, situations, etc. that wouldn't be realized without my work. It makes me feel obligated to find the real truth the best that I can, and to investigate into matters that haven't been looked into before I noticed them.

In 2010, a team of journalists uncovered the truth about the health hazards of asbestos. Millions of people die due to asbestos related illnesses, and many of the hazards of asbestos weren't realized until they were discovered by journalists. Click here to see the story. 

I think it's fascinating that journalists possess the power to uncover such stories as this. It excites me for my career and makes me eager to develop a more critical eye now so that I can be better when I'm actually practicing journalism down the road.