I can't wait to transfer my skills to the real world!

Why did you choose to study your course and what inspired you to go into journalism?

From a very young age, I’ve always been politically active and journalism was the perfect profession to channel my frustration about world issues, to raise awareness about injustice and to narrate people’s stories in engaging ways. The University of Sheffield felt like the best place to build on furthering my knowledge about this industry. Not only because it was a world class accredited journalism department, but I appreciated how the course covered all forms of journalism from print to broadcast. 

What is the best thing about your course and why?

The flexibility in the range of options - varying from print, magazine, digital and broadcast journalism- is really invaluable in the course. This gives us the opportunity to be full rounded journalists or to build on skills that are useful for, for example, PR and marketing. These options are taught by well-respected journalists and professionals that provide additional insight into venturing to any journalist pathways we desire. 

What is the best opportunity you've had on the course? (Or what's the best project you've had the opportunity to work on as part of your course?)

I had the opportunity to work at the Press Association during the January break. I wrote stories for publications across the country locally and nationally. I also shadowed a reporter interviewing Labour Leader Sir Keir Starmer and Shadow Secretary Lisa Nandy, during possibly one of the most chaotic political times. I applied for this opportunity via the course and I was supported throughout my work placement. By the end of the week, I furthered my knowledge about the industry, learnt key skills and connected with senior journalists that will prove incredibly useful in my career journey.  

What do you plan to do once you graduate? If you don't have any immediate plans, what are your long term goals for your future career?

I am actively applying for jobs, internships and graduate schemes, as I wish to start work once I graduate. The course has really equipped me with so much knowledge and experience that I cannot wait to transfer these onto the real world! My long-term career goal is to work in broadcast, investigative or international reporting. For now, I am excited for what the future holds! 

By the end of the week, I furthered my knowledge about the industry, learnt key skills and connected with senior journalists that will prove incredibly useful in my career journey.  

Vivian Iroanya

Journalism Studies BA

How do you think your degree at Sheffield has/will prepare you for your future? 

The course really provided us with the necessary skills, training, and knowledge about the industry during teachings or real- life work experiences. I had the opportunity to intern at various publications such as Press Association, Sheffield Star, and Leadership TV. I also networked with senior journalists through the department’s career sessions. All these opportunities really prepared me for the future! 

What would you say to someone thinking about studying journalism at Sheffield?

Go for it! Coming here in Sheffield to study my favourite course was the best decision I have ever made! I learnt so much about myself in these past three years. And it’s not just the career opportunities you gain from the course, but the city itself is a vibrant student hub where you are guaranteed to make friends for life! The balance of city life coupled with the beautiful Peak District and countryside, makes Sheffield the best place to study journalism.