As a young, aspiring journalist having just left university, the prospect of finding that crucial break into the industry is a daunting one.
In today’s political climate, it is more crucial than ever that people understand the world around them - the prospect of being able to contribute to that understanding really ignites excitement in me. I have always known that I wanted to do this job for as long as I can remember. But there’s often a worry that ‘normal people like me’ don’t get chance to, which is why applying for the Len Tingle internship was unmissable. I sent off the application and hoped for the best.
The Len Tingle internship
I first heard about the placement in memory of Len from my tutors at the University of Leeds some of which are Len’s former colleagues. They have spoken of his passion, talent and dedication to giving budding reporters support and opportunity.
I was delighted, and terrified, when I heard I had secured an interview. This would be my first experience of an interview in the media industry and was undeniably nerve-wracking. The aim was to make the process as similar to the official interview process as possible, with an interview panel and plenty of pressing questions!
Working as a journalist
I’ve had some real ‘pinch-me’ moments throughout the placement - most notably going down to Westminster and interviewing Yorkshire MP’s on College Green when Boris Johnson became Prime Minister. It really hit me that being a journalist gives you a chance to witness history being made, first hand. Throughout all of it, with every new person I meet who knew Len, it’s plain to see how much fondness everyone had for him.
I finished the internship a month ago now, and I’m now working as a freelancer at BBC Look North in Yorkshire. I can’t express my gratitude to be given a platform to learn and grow, whilst furthering my prospects of pursuing a career I love and I am extremely excited to continue on this journey.
I would encourage anybody thinking of applying for the internship in the future to go for it whole heartedly. If you’re lucky enough to be successful, then here are my top tips:
- Throw yourself completely into it- It can seem very overwhelming at times - but say yes to every opportunity thrown at you, because you don’t know where it may lead or who you might meet.
- Don’t be afraid to ask questions but use your initiative in equal measure. It’s okay not to know everything and wanting to learn is a good thing. But trust in your own abilities. In the fast-paced environment of a newsroom, ideas and efficiency are always welcome.
- Ask for criticism - and be willing to take it! You’re there to learn and listening to those around you is the best way to do so. Showing you can learn and grow from pointers and constructive criticism makes a good impression.
- Most importantly - BE YOURSELF. It’s the most cliché piece of advice out there but undoubtedly the most important. I went into this whole process with the attitude that if I was myself then things would fall into place - and they seem to be! Being authentic, personable and friendly goes further than anything else in the workplace (and makes things much more enjoyable!).
