Callum
Parke

Journalism alumni, Callum Parke, graduated in 2021 and is now a Law Reporter at PA Media. Callum talks to us about his experience on the course, what attracted him to his current role, and his career highlight so far.

Why did you choose to study at NTU and what key features influenced your decision?

"I had originally planned to complete a masters at my undergraduate university, and moving to NTU only two months before this course was due to start was a big leap for me. However, I was drawn to the course as it showed a clear path to what I wanted to do in my career. The offer of the NCTJ Diploma, which I already knew was essential if I wanted to get my foot in the door of any major publication, was a huge selling point. The course seemed well-structured, practical and well-suited to what I wanted to do and learn."

What support did you receive while studying, from tutors colleagues and/or mentors?

"The support I received even before joining NTU was immensely beneficial. My main tutor, Jonny Greatrex, was and remains fantastic, and is now someone I see as a friend and am hugely grateful for. From answering my silly questions to helping me hone my skills, both Jonny and the other tutors were brilliant. They were very knowledgeable and have bags of experience between them, whether this be Mandy teaching media law, Dave in shorthand, or Julie in social media. All of them helped me receive a rounded and detailed education in how to become a journalist, despite the obvious and varying challenges of the Covid pandemic at the time."

How would you describe your experience of studying at Nottingham Trent University?

"As someone who really enjoyed studying at a different university for my undergraduate degree, I was slightly apprehensive moving elsewhere. But despite the Covid pandemic meaning I felt I could not have a 'full' experience of being an NTU student, it was still very enjoyable. My course mates formed a strong bond as a group, which helped me enjoy my time, and I have already mentioned how much I enjoyed the course itself. Any fears I had were quickly put to rest and, while at times it was stressful, I had a very enjoyable year at NTU. I would recommend the course, and the wider university, to anyone."

Did you go on any work placements?

"I went on several short work placements during my course to help satisfy the requirement to complete 15 days on placement. These were arranged through Jonny, but also through utilising contacts I had elsewhere. These gave me valuable exposure to 'real life' journalism and allowed me to test my skills in a professional environment. I found them very beneficial in the main."

Is there anything else you would like to say that you feel might be relevant to someone thinking about enrolling on your course?

"If you want to be a journalist, this is the course for you! Everything you need to know is taught on this course. It prepares you fully for what life is like as a reporter, or in other roles in the news media."

What does your current role involve? Describe a typical day at work.

"I am one of three members of the High Court team at PA (formerly the Press Association). We cover the High Court and Supreme Court. I am based at the Royal Courts of Justice in central London, with my day spent covering a variety of hearings and rulings across the High Court. Every day is different and the job can be very varied, and at times can be very pressurised when covering the biggest stories of the day. However, this is also very rewarding, and allows me to actively utilise what I have learned in media law and shorthand in particular, as these are the bread and butter of my role."

What attracted you to this field of work?

"I have always enjoyed law, courts etc, and so I very much enjoyed the media law module I completed at NTU. I first got into court reporting in my first job at the Derby Telegraph, covering Magistrates', Crown and Coroners' Courts. I then continued to do this across a wider patch as PA's East Midlands Reporter. In the latter role, around two-thirds of my time was spent in a courtroom, and I loved it. I was most comfortable covering court, and I feel it is the place where you can most actively apply what you have been taught. I moved to my current role to specialise in the topic, and have loved every second of it since."

How have your studies contributed to your career / current successes?

"I can word it no better than I simply would not be where I am today without the Masters in Journalism course and NTU."

What have been the highlights of your career so far?

"Travelling to Dubai to cover King Charles' opening speech at COP28 for PA."

What have been the biggest challenges you’ve faced since graduating?

"Believing in my own abilities."

What are your plans for the future?

"To continue growing and developing at the High Court."

Do you have any advice to share with new graduates or other alumni?

"Do your shorthand (I know it is painful at times but trust me it helps later on). Learn your media law (contempt of court doesn't look good on anyone's CV). Immerse yourself and take whatever opportunities you can – they all help you to become a better journalist. But most importantly, find what you are passionate about and write about it. It makes the job so much easier when you care and are interested in what you are covering."