a degree certainly helps (in fact they said you have to have a degree for this position, but sometimes experience can equal a degree)...
and despite what ppl think, it's not necessarily who you know. When I applied here I didn't know anyone and just did a damn good job with my first few freelance opportunities, and made a good impression with my passion for this lifestyle... the market is flooded with new "media" but the turnover is constant so just keep your eyes and ears open and work on camera and writing skillz cuz just like getting chicks, it's all about your skillz (numchuck skillz, etc. )
if you ever have any questions man, hit me up anytime
start in a local newspaper by writing,and local magazines and stuff,that would help out with writing skills and etc.