<p><span class="p-body">Cathy Garrard has spent more than two decades working as a journalist and editor in magazine publishing, but her most rewarding professional experience has been teaching. “It’s quite possibly the most rewarding professional work of my entire career.” Seven years ago, an industry colleague encouraged her to interview for an adjunct position at NYU SPS, and since then, she has been shaping the next generation of editorial professionals.</span></p>

<p><span class="p-body">Garrard originally joined NYU SPS to teach Fact-Checking for Accuracy and later developed the curriculum for Media Literacy, both of which are available to students in the <a href="/content/sps-nyu/certificates/journalism.html" target="_blank">Certificate in Journalism</a> and <a href="/content/sps-nyu/certificates/professional-copyediting-proofreading-and-fact-checking.html" target="_blank">Certificate in Professional Copyediting, Proofreading, and Fact-Checking</a> programs.</span></p>

<p><span class="p-body">Students in Garrard’s courses gain critical thinking skills and practical knowledge to navigate a world where misinformation can spread more quickly than ever. “If a media company has a fact-checking or copy-editing department, it’s a great sign that accuracy and editorial integrity are a top priority for that employer,” she notes. However, not every outlet values fact-checking, and she ensures her students understand how to differentiate between reputable organizations and those that may prioritize speed over accuracy.</span></p>

<p><span class="p-body">One of the biggest challenges facing journalists today is the role of AI in content creation. “AI tools are not ready for primetime with fact-checking,” Garrard says, noting that the technology’s limitations can lead to misinformation rather than prevent it. Her courses help students stay informed on industry changes, including policy shifts at major social media companies, which impact the way news is created and shared.</span></p> <p><span class="p-body">Garrard’s courses provide valuable takeaways beyond journalism. “You don’t need to be a journalist to benefit from good writing, editing, and interpersonal skills,” she says. Assignments focus on real-world applications, from composing professional communications to understanding different workplace personalities. Whether students are looking to enter media, pivot careers, or strengthen their critical thinking skills, the Journalism and Copyediting certificate programs offer a practical path forward.</span></p> <p><span class="p-body">Do your part in making media more accurate for all when you pursue a <a href="/content/sps-nyu/certificates/journalism.html" target="_blank">Certificate in Journalism</a> or a <a href="/content/sps-nyu/certificates/professional-copyediting-proofreading-and-fact-checking.html" target="_blank">Certificate in Professional Copyediting, Proofreading, and Fact-Checking</a> at NYU SPS.</span></p>