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National papers seem to be what people aim for in the grand scheme of their journalistic careers. Whilst I’m no exception to this, there’s a lot to be said for local papers, particularly when gaining work experience.
My week-long placement on the Guardian’s culture website was a little disappointing. Upon receiving the offer, I was literally beside myself with excitement. I was warned beforehand that the placement wouldn’t strictly be a reporting internship, but I spent most of the week helping make alterations to the paper’s website. Finally I wrote a short film review on the last day. Having said that, it was really interesting getting inside the Guardian offices and observing how people work.
By comparison, my placement on the Eastbourne Herald was very hands-on. I got the post simply by phoning the editorial assistant, an approach which seems to be successful for most papers. The company has around five or six reporters for three local titles, so I was able to really help out by researching and writing a few stories, as well as carrying out several interviews. I was also taken to court with the reporters almost every day, which is really valuable experience when it comes to applying for jobs or Masters in Journalism. Shadowing reporters meant I got a fantastic insight into the profession.
Like everyone else in journalism, I’ve been lamenting the state of the regional press, so I hope there will still be job prospects at their offices in the coming years.
The Guardian is still my favourite read but the knowledge and skills you can gain with the regional press really is second to none.
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