Work experience gave me an eye opening introduction to journalism world, in terms of how content is made and produced. I had done work experience in school, like most others do, but producing journalistic content that was available for everybody to read, that was something I’d never done before.

I first contacted Shauna, my line manager and founder of the company Social Heroes, last year. I researched the company before I sent the email to make sure I knew what I was talking about, so I could at least sound professional. Shauna quickly replied with a very encouraging email, asking me to send in an application-like sample piece of work based on the content Social Heroes produce. Immediately, I found a topic that interested me, did some research, and then continued to write the article. Looking back at this, I felt like a proper journalist whilst working on this introductory piece of work. I had searched for the work placement myself, contacted the correct people and had done some article research – and now I was writing the article.

The whole work experience was an utterly enjoyable process. Throughout the experience, I felt totally at home in terms of working as a journalist/content producer, and having to follow the orders of Shauna, after all I did have to write about what was relevant.

My work experience also allowed me to hone my key employability skills. I had to work both independently as well as work as cog in a much bigger machine. The experience meant that I got to practice working to a deadline, knowing that if I didn’t, the machine I was part of wouldn’t work as efficiently. I also had the chance to show I could use my initiative by producing content differently, by using graphs or infographics. I also had to use my initiative by not being afraid to ask for help if I needed it, or even asking if there was anything else I could do.

Most importantly though, work experience showed me that journalism and writing is definitely a career I would like to progress and thrive in throughout my life. It gave me opportunities to flex my writing muscles and also my research brain.