It's almost too easy to setup your own web site where you can publish your articles. I'd do this as a way to get your feet wet and allow potential employeers to see your work.
I'm partial to stories that are just on the fringes of acceptable journalism. Many valid articles have been supressed or ignored by mainstream journals. Topics of national interest might include:
- Failure of the 9/11 Commission
- Why media supports the Two Party System (See Ralph Nader)
- Failure of the American Electoral System in 2000 and 2004.
- Winter Soldier Testimonials about Iraq
- The American Peace Movement
Of course, you my get your first articles of local interest and actually sell advertising to local businesses. You'd be surprised how easy it is to sell advertising on the net to companies that have a narrow target audience geographically and a narrow interest group.
You don't need fancy programs and expertise. You can use Microsoft Word and a little guidance from your ISP.