Q: Thank you for providing such a resourceful web site!

I have a question about rejecting a job offer.

I graduated from j-school in May. Had a summer internship out of state and got hired at my internship paper. Earlier this month, my j-school adviser gave my info to a newspaper in another state for a similar job but for the sports section.

I don't want to interview for the job because:
A) I moved across the country for this internship/job and can't afford to move again.
B) I don't know much about sports so that disqualifies me.

As a recent grad and starting out journalist, I'm floored I had this opportunity, but honestly, I don't have a great grasp of sports. How do I write back and say I don't want to interview because I'm perfectly fine where I am? Is that rude?

Thanks,

Unsure

A: You're in the clear.

You did not pursue this opportunity and you have valid grounds for graciously declining the invitation to apply. (It doesn't sound as though you have an actual offer.)

Just say: "Thanks so much for your interest. That's exciting, and I'm glad my professor put in a good word for me. However, I am still new at this job and don't think that sports plays to my strengths. I hope we can keep in touch for future opportunities, but I feel I still have a lot to learn on this job."

That should cover it.