Matt
Lee

"NTU is one of the best places to learn journalism, but also a great establishment to be a part of as a student. The university consistently achieves high standards, therefore winning awards for their work, and means that the level of teaching is always improving.

"A real strength of this course is the way that they immediately begin to teach you journalistic skills and this is a huge strength. From day one as a journalism student you are encouraged to be out and about, talking to people in local communities, building a contacts book, finding news stories on social media and producing newsworthy content. Whether it be a police drugs bust on the way home from a football game (as I found out here) or an explainer on the latest coronavirus restrictions, the tutors’ encouragement to find news stories means that your news sense will always be active.

"I really felt engaged with the social media and practical journalism modules. The social media teaching could not be delivered by anyone more knowledgeable in the sector. In the module you’re taught how to find news stories using Twitter or Facebook, and even the versatility of TikTok to share news but also source information.

"When visiting other universities, the thing that stood out about journalism at NTU was the newsroom. I’ve done a few work experience placements at CoventryLive and EssexLive, and the newsroom within CBJ is easily as good as those in the ‘real world’.

"My greatest achievement would be becoming an accredited journalist to cover Nottingham Forest matches live from the City Ground. Even when coronavirus meant thousands of fans were unable to attend, I was one of a few hundred who had access to matches in order to report on proceedings. I was even involved in the press conference welcoming Chris Hughton to the club as their new manager, sitting alongside established journalists from the likes of The Times, Sky Sports and talkSPORT.

"My one piece of advice for students looking to study journalism at university is just to get involved wherever you can. Whether you end up at NTU or somewhere else, spend time away from your uni work writing for the student paper, or hosting a show with the student radio station – as well as making time to socialise and make new friends. There’s also no harm in trying to find some work experience during the holidays, or even on Saturdays if you can find a helpful employer. It will only benefit you in the long-run and give you experience to add to your CV."