Getting into student journalism

First of all, huge congratulations as you start your university life. It might sound like an overused cliché, but Bristol is truly a vibrant city blessed with world-class universities. As you read this, you may have already figured out the best nightclubs, bars and cafes.

Bristol is a fertile loam for journalism with several esteemed publications. The student publications of the city are also unmatched with cutting-edge content – which is why you should give at least one of them a try and see how you get on.

Never ever underestimate the power of student journalism. For certain issues, you will have better access than any national broadsheet. You are closer to the epicentre of action – whether it is UCU strikes, pro-Palestine protests, or the state of facilities. It is a hugely rewarding job and the hours you put in are certainly not in vain. People matter, issues matter.

I have no secret knowledge to impart except a few lessons I have learned the hard way after writing around 240 articles for the independent University of Bristol publication, Epigram.

“The student publications of the city are also unmatched with cutting-edge content – which is why you should give at least one of them a try and see how you get on,” says Milan Perera – photo: Meg Houghton-Gilmour

Firstly, and I cannot stress this enough, it is all about people, people and people. Your job is not to turn over press releases but to probe, question and empathise with people. Build up a rapport with various groups. Make your phone book swell with new contacts. Whether it is activist groups, political PR gurus or art collectives, try to get a first-hand account rather than from another news source.

As journalists, we use language to convey our stories. It provides us with the building blocks for our craft. Read voraciously, especially non-fiction. I would recommend taking a glance at the works of  AA Gill, Christopher Hitchens, Norman Mailer, Gore Vidal and Yuval Noah Harari. Their work is both intellectually stimulating and challenging.

Form opinions but always be willing to have a dialogue with those with opposing points of view. Despite pursuing your convictions with passion, you should have the willingness to listen to others. By talking through various perspectives, you will come to a better understanding.

When you are starting out as a student journalist, you might not have too many ideas to work with. If you’re at UoB or UWE, Epigram and Hub have arts and culture sections that could provide a great way for you to try your hand at gig, film, or theatre reviews. Do try to immerse yourself in art and culture. Whether it is a stand-up or an opera, soak it all up. I can assure you that this goes a long way. Be unashamed of being a gig chaser. These artists might not be popular, yet, but see them perform live and express your thoughts. Build up your own voice.

Writing for a university paper is a hugely rewarding experience and an excellent way to meet other budding journalists – photo: Milan Perera

Once you build up your voice you can try other types of journalism, like feature writing or news. The skill set is the same with slight variations. Be relentless in your questioning and do not take ready-made, PR-glossed answers as you represent what others have said. You have a responsibility. But always be fair. Provide people with a right of reply even when you are writing what first appears to be an open and shut case.

Another important thing to reiterate is to accept setbacks and disappointments along the way. There is no correlation between the number of hours you put in and the number of awards and job opportunities that follow you.

Student journalists Susie Long and Meadow Watteret attending to the Bristol24/7’s stall at Freshers Fair of Bristol University – photo: Milan Perera

You might feel you were overlooked for certain roles even though you are eminently qualified. You might keep revisiting the award that slipped through your fingers. These can be crushing experiences but life goes on. Keep working. I can assure you that your dedication to the craft will receive its due recognition and open up new avenues – perhaps even a career in journalism.

As I write this, I have been working for over two months with no holidays in between. My experience is not unique and it is something I share with many other colleagues. But then there is the reward of a well-written story. It is worth all the leisurely hours you have missed out on. People matter and issues matter.

Milan Perera is Bristol24/7’s Business Editor

Main photo: Milan Perera

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