Reporter’s Log

Connie Chung was the second woman and the first Asian American to be the lead anchor for a major U.S. news program. TFK Kid Reporter Evelyn Peng met the trailblazing journalist during an appearance on The Kelly Clarkson Show, and the two later spoke about Chung’s career.

How did you get started with journalism?

I had a summer internship working for a congressman. He got me interested in writing, because he was a former newspaper man. I wrote press releases and position papers for him. What enthralled me was watching the reporters try to get answers from members of Congress who didn’t always want to give them answers. They would chase them down the marble hallways of the Capitol, trying to get information. Being on Capitol Hill was like sensing the beating pulse of a government.

In your career, did you face any discrimination, either as a woman or as an Asian American?

I have to say I did, much as I don’t want to say that. When I started, it was apparent that I was different. There were not only very few women, but also there were no Asians. I stuck out like a sore thumb.

How did you overcome it?

I just decided that I belonged there, that they couldn’t tell me that I didn’t know what I was doing.

What qualities should a good journalist have?

The desire to tell the truth. A balanced take on every story. Using facts to create solid credibility. A curious mind that wants to find out every last little morsel of information. The ability to write well is critical to any part of journalism. A desire to work hard.

Do you have any tips for me?

I think the key in interviewing is to decide what your list of questions is, but then you swing with it. Start with the first question and see where it goes. Listen to the person whom you’re interviewing, and then ask a follow-up question. If you feel like you’ve gotten enough of an answer or a satisfying answer, then you go on to the next one. Or it can easily cause you to think of a new question.

You’ve had such a storied career. What’s your secret?

I never give up. I’ve always found another mountain to climb and another goal to achieve. It has sometimes been debilitating, because I was never satisfied. But one thing I’ve learned along the way is that perfection is not a worthy goal. Nothing is perfect.

The interview was edited for length and clarity.

The TFK Kid Reporter Contest is Open!

Think you have what it takes to be a junior journalist? The TFK Kid Reporter Contest is underway! Apply by June 16 for a chance to report for our magazines and website. TFK editors will choose up to 10 students to be TFK Kid Reporters for the 2025–2026 school year. To apply online or by mail, ask a parent, guardian, or teacher for details. Learn more at timeforkids.com/kid-reporter.