The entertainment industry can be a whirlwind experience for the actors, singers and other performers who are the face of it, but there is another exciting facet to the field -- entertainment journalism. Becoming an entertainment journalist can be incredibly rewarding and exciting, but it takes the right mix of hard work, education and professional connections to become successful as an entertainment reporter.

Get a Journalism Degree

A bachelor's degree is a minimum requirement for becoming an entertainment reporter. Since entertainment reporting is still a facet of journalism, a related degree is your best bet for getting into the field. Degrees focused on broadcast journalism, journalism or communications are typically the most sought after by employers. A degree in these fields will help you develop the journalistic aptitude needed to research and craft an engaging story that will captivate your future audience as an entertainment reporter.

Learn to Write Better

Writing is a necessary skill for any reporter, including those who focus on entertainment. Take every opportunity to practice your writing skills. For instance, writing for a blog or your school paper may not only help you develop your writing skills but also familiarize you with journalism writing. Knowledge of AP-style writing is critical if you're going to work in journalism, so take advantage of as many opportunities to write for a newspaper or professional publication as you can so that you're familiar with this writing style commonly used in journalism.

Get Internships

A good way to get your foot in the door of entertainment reporting is to secure as many internships as possible. Look for an internship in broadcast journalism or for a print or online publication. Apply for opportunities that put you in the mix of entertainment reporting. The more experience you acquire, the better your chances of becoming an entertainment reporter.

Make Connections

The entertainment industry depends on connections as much as it does on talent, if not more. Be sure to reach out to others in the industry and make a positive name for yourself while moving up the ranks. Connect with mentors while interning and also make sure to support others who may also be trying to break into the business. If you sow positive relationships now, you'll have an easier time cultivating the benefits of those relationships later.