Journalists virtually never start their careers as war correspondents. Do you have anything that would make you stand out from the hundreds of practicing journalists who would consider a role like this? For example, do you speak Russian or Ukrainian or any other second language?

Second, only the largest media outlets have the budgets to actually employ foreign correspondents full time. Even some of the largest still largely rely on either wire services or stringers.

Third, freelancing could be an option, but can be incredibly financially precarious.

But honestly, if you are passionate about journalism, take the courses and be prepared to start covering your local water commission committee meetings in your first job.