Studying journalism at university is a brilliant opportunity and gives you lift off into an amazing career, here Libby lists a few things she wishes that she’d known before she started studying.
1.Take every opportunity available to you
In my first year, I was quite shy and didn’t feel that I was skilled enough to take some work experience opportunities. One of the best things I ever did was help a local BBC radio station with their election coverage in my second year. If someone offers you a chance to work in a journalism environment, snap it up! You never know when you’re next going to be able to do that, getting work experience is hard.
Even working for the local paper or radio station looks impressive on your CV.
2. Don’t let knock backs put you off!
Work experience rejections, people not getting back to you and failed stories are all part of the package; it doesn’t mean that you won’t succeed. Every knock back is a step closer to your success; there is nothing better than when you’ve worked hard to get to where you want to be. Trust me, everything works out in the end.
3. Don’t be afraid to ask questions
Asking questions is one of the most important things when it comes to studying journalism. It’s essential that you get everything right when you go into an actual job, so even if that means asking the same question several times do it.
Quite often people feel that they need to know everything there is to know about journalism before they start university; this isn’t true. Your lecturers are there to help and have most likely been in the trade themselves, utilize them while you have them.
4. Make contacts while you’re at university
Having contacts is a must when it comes to journalism, whether you need someone to talk to for a story, work experience or even a job after you graduate. Take people’s contact details and network and it should make life as a journalist a whole heap easier.
5. Get used to talking to people
Your job will involve talking to people on a daily basis so get used to this. You’ll have to be able to put a smile on your face to get inside scoops and interview people for stories. My best advice would be to get out there when you start university and practice by meeting new people.
6. Enjoy the experience
This a time where you can experiment with your journalism, make mistakes and have fun. Working with your peers at university is a once in a lifetime opportunity, so make the most of it! There is nothing more enjoyable than the satisfaction that you’re learning to do something you’re passionate about.
Whether you’re studying sport, print or another type of Journalism, University is the best place to learn, grow and practice ready for a job.
