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Beginning a career in journalism?

  • 20-07-2011 1:09pm
    #1
    pineapple*soul
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 85 ✭✭


    Hey guys, wonder if you could help me out with some advice?

    I'm 27 and have a first class honours degree in English from UCD. That's the closest I have to relevant qualifications or experience for a journalism career, but it's something I really want to get into now.

    I know it's late at 27 to be getting into these things but I really don't mind starting at the bottom. Is there any advice you would give to someone in my position? I currently work a part time job that pays the rent which I can't give up - do you think a local paper would be willing to take on a part time work experience guy?

    Which papers and who in them should I be applying to?

    I really have no idea where to begin.

    Thanks!


Comments

  • #2
    ordinary_girl
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 850 ✭✭✭ordinary_girl


    Set up a blog, try to write for a post for it everyday as this is what some editors may look for and ask for - proof that you can supply consistently good copy and that you write frequently.

    You need to build up a portfolio of articles you've had published, however blog posts can also be included in a portfolio as it's still all been written by you. Do you have a niche? Music? Sci fi? etc. If you do find webzines that focus on these topics and start writing for them.

    It wouldn't hurt to ask the local newspaper if you could be a part time work experience guy, if you do get it then it's a great way to build up your contacts (which is pretty much essential in journalism) and it'd look good on your CV.

    When applying apply to either the editor or the deputy editor. And always find out their names - show your journalistic research skills. Good luck!


  • #3
    Keano!
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 1,030 ✭✭✭Keano!


    Blog and email articles to smaller papers for publication


  • #4
    Jammyc
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 1,979 ✭✭✭Jammyc


    The BBC run internships and trainee schemes so that might be worth looking into.

    EDIT: Here's the actual Journalism Trainee Scheme run by them.


  • #5
    mytwocents
    Closed Accounts Posts: 40 ✭mytwocents


    Also I know in the past The Irish Times had a graduate programme,you could check if they're doing one this year. Your first class honours degree in English will be impressive.

    Also I agree with people suggesting you set up a blog.


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