As the fall 2016 semester begins at California State University Dominguez Hills, journalism major Javier Frayre, 22, is back in school with hopes of one day landing a dream job working in sports journalism. Meanwhile, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the projected 10-year job growth for reporters, correspondents, and broadcast news analysts shows a decline of negative 13 percent. “You got to have confidence,” says Frayre, who isn’t afraid to take on the challenge.  With journalism jobs becoming more and more elusive, he says, “The main thing I can say is just be positive.”

Growing up in the South Side of Carson, CA, Frayre is familiar with hardships and not having large financial resources. While living with both parents, he works part time with his university’s student union and is grateful for the financial aid he receives to pay for college. “My main motivating factor is my education,” says Frayre, “As long as you have that degree or diploma, no one can take that away from you.”