This code of ethics applies to my education and experience in journalism and mass communication and apparel merchandising. As I pursue a career in the magazine journalism field, this code of ethics will continuously remind me of my values and point me toward persistence, truth, and fairness.

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Values

• I value people as they are, and I desire to connect with them in an effort to better understand their identities.

• I value relationships. I will prioritize my friends and family while also connecting with my co-workers. I will be known as someone who is hard-working, dependable, and kind.

• I value the ability to be creative and innovative. In any position I assume, I must be able to express myself while never ceasing to learn and experiment. 

• I value my faith. While my faith is an extremely large part of my life and my value system, I will come to work with an unbiased point of view.

• I value the freedom of speech as detailed by the First Amendment and will exercise this freedom by remaining observant and sharing my opinion for the good of the people.

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Persistence

The role of a journalist is an important one, but it is not easy. I know that I will experience triumph and failure, success and rejection, clarity and confusion. Throughout my career I will diligently pursue comprehensive and accurate information. I will do whatever it takes to completely convey stories with an unbiased perspective. I will not be afraid to ask for help or answers to any questions I may have. I will speak up so that my voice may be heard. I will live up to the responsibility I have as a journalist, a co-worker, a family member, and a person. 

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Truth

Today, I believe one of a journalist's highest priorities is to act and write honestly, accurately, and with transparency. While temptation and deception may surround me, I will thoroughly investigate the details of a story and practice fact-checking. I will only write my own words or those of my sources, and I will correctly cite sources. I will avoid conflicts of interest that may cause unbiased reporting. Additionally, I will periodically set aside time to recognize my identities and biases and the ways they may prevent me from being objective. 

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Fairness

I will treat everyone with respect regardless of gender, sexual orientation, social class, job title, race, ethnicity, political values, religion, or ability. I believe that no person should be at an advantage or disadvantage for those identities they cannot control. As society continues to evolve, I will do what's necessary to learn and stay up to date. I will utilize a neutral perspective when working and writing.

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