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Laid off? 10 tips for accidental freelancers
If you’ve recently been laid off, I’m sorry. Losing a job is emotionally, practically and financially destabilizing — especially when your identity and sense of purpose are closely tied to your work, as they are for many writers and editors. But let me offer some hope. When I took a last-minute buyout after 15 years…
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7 tips for negotiating higher pay as a freelance journalist
Asking for more money as a freelancer isn’t something I’m particularly good at. Often, I’m just excited to get an assignment — especially if it’s one of my ideas — and publications typically present their rates as non-negotiable (“We pay $1 a word” or “The fee for this assignment is $400”). With more outlets shuttering…
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Why freelance journalists should consider hiring a personal assistant
Finding and effectively using remote personal assistants to save time Tara Haelle, Independent journalist; AHCJ Health Beat Leader for Infectious Diseases and Medical Studies By Wendy Wolfson, California Health Journalism Fellow At Health Journalism 2026, independent journalist Tara Haelle explained how a remote personal assistant (PA) enables her to be more efficient and productive.…
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How a freelancer pitched a story about sperm freezing to Popular Science
As the leader of AHCJ’s New York City chapter, I organize a variety of in-person panels, tours, book talks and workshops for our local members. I was delighted to hear recently from a regular attendee Julia Daye that, for her, they’ve also led to invaluable connections with editors and actual published stories. For example, when…
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Meet the 2026 Health Journalism Fellows
AHCJ is excited to announce the 2026 Health Journalism fellows. This group is a dynamic and diverse mix of passionate and dedicated journalists committed to illuminating the complexities of health care in today’s world. This year, more than 60 fellows will receive registration, travel support and lodging to attend Health Journalism 2026 in Minneapolis, Minn.,…
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5 things about freelance journalism I learned the hard way
Since becoming a freelance journalist three years ago, I’ve been publicly effusive about its joys. I love the freedom to work however, whenever and wherever I’d like; the ability to explore whatever interests me instead of sticking to a narrow beat; and the thrill that comes with every pitch sent and every new byline achieved. …
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