Hiya readers,
OK, right, I *think* I've just finished week 15. What have I been doing since my last post? Have I been in some NCTJ induced coma that has stopped me from blogging about my exploits? Not quite. Instead of not blogging completely, I've sort of made the choice to leave it aside (for admittedly, a long time) and instead I've been focussing on interviewing, building my portfolio, exams and having a merry ole time with coursemates on the occassional night out (which is usually rounded off by a large McNugget meal from the Mecca that is McDonalds).
Since my last post though, I can say that I've grown so much in confidence as a journalist. Last time, I was talking about time management and my new role as a Bootle Community Reporter for the Liverpool Echo. The fact that I was struggling to find stories. At the beginning it was slow and I had to
persevere
before I got anything newsworthy. It involved exploring my local area and phoning places like schools, shopping centres, charities for anything that was going on at the time. I even went down to interview my local MP, Joe Benton. More for the experience than anything, I quizzed him about his role and issues affecting the area. I was quite nervous but he turned out to be really nice. I left my contact details with him, so hopefully he will get in touch with any stories he may want covering. And not forgetting to make the most out of social media, like Facebook and Twitter. I've had stories published in the Merseymart and Bootle Star supplements, which include a local fitness company running outdoor exercise classes in a Bootle based park. As well as an interview with a band, Tres, who had made it to the regional finals (now grand finals!) of Open Mic UK. I've been proud of the work that I've managed to produce as my skills have developed over the past few months. And I can't stress how important it to use your initiative when on such placements, as that is really important for you as a journo and for future employers to see that you are capable of producing high quality stories that you have sourced yourself. Always be enthusiastic and don't give up, even if you feel disheartened, because eventually it will be worth it.
I had my first two exams in November. Shorthand at 60wpm (LOLZ) and Media Law. I can admit, I didn't feel comfortable with shorthand at all. I knew it wasn't going to go well. I think I'd built this negative attitude based on experiences of it I had in the past. Afterwards I felt pretty fustrated and upset with myself, but then thought I needed to give it another go. I spoke to my tutor and decided that I had to try and get something, even if it was to show that I knew the theory. So I took my 40wpm this week and smashed it. Yes, it is pretty slow but I think I'm going to work to 60wpm now. And then, who knows? ;) Next was our law exam. Due to illness, we haven't had a law teacher in the lead up to exams. However, we were taught topics and given a booklet with past papers to help with our revision. Along with the booklet and our trusty team NCTJ group on Facebook. OMFG. DOES ANYONE KNOW THE ANSWER TO THIS QUESTION? IS IT QUALIFIED PRIVILEDGE? HAVIN' A BREAKDOWN. In the end though, managed a shiny A. Really pleased with that.
Over Christmas, I'll be revising for my remaining exams. And expect to hear more of me as I reach the final hurdles of this course. No, really, I'll be blogging more, I promise!
I'd like to wish all my readers a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
S xxx
