Q. Recently, I ended an eight-year stay as a Canadian national television sports reporter, and now I'm pursuing my passion for sports/entertainment writing. I'm wondering how I can get a sports/entertainment writing position at a major market newspaper or magazine in the U.S.
 

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I have extensive experience writing for U.S. and Canadian entertainment and sports Web sites, and now I want to step up to a higher level. I've been in the media industry since 1997. I have plenty of experience writing, reporting, editing and interviewing athletes and celebrities. 
 
I've been told that my vast experience gives me an edge over other potential writers. Is that true?  How can I work as an entertainment/sports reporter for a U.S.-based magazine or newspaper?
 
Also, how does it work if I'm not a U.S. citizen?
 
Thank you for your time.
 
Take care,

Southbound

A. The key question and the sticking point is whether you want to be on staff with a U.S. company or just be a freelance contributor.

Joe Grimm

If you want to be an employee, you'll need to get a work visa, which requires you to find a company that will sponsor your application. It will cost the company some money -- a couple thousand dollars in fees and some legal work -- and the application ultimately has to win approval. This makes some companies avoid the process.

If you want to be a regular contributor as a freelancer, you'll probably be able to make an easier go of it. Your wide range of work is a plus, and you'll need that because the application requirements are a minus.

My next stop would be to consult with an immigration attorney who has helped other Canadians make the same move.

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Coming Wednesday: This ambitious graduate recognizes she may have a lack of experience and wonders whether to break in as a freelancer or an editorial assistant.

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