Nabanita
Das

Nabanita made the decision to take a sabbatical from her job at Hindustan Times in Kolkata, India, to pursue a degree in MA News Journalism at NTU. She also received a Masters scholarship, making studying the UK more affordable.

Can you tell us about your Masters project?

“My Masters project is on the media coverage of conflict and humanitarian crisis communications. Tracing the history of war journalism, my research aims to explore the effects of technology and social media on conflict journalism, and the methods of reporting humanitarian crises.”

What made you choose to study at NTU, and in the UK?

“I chose NTU because it is one of the top universities in the UK, and the Centre for Broadcasting & Journalism is one of its best departments. The MA News Journalism course also has a National Council for the Training of Journalists (NCTJ) certification, which gives me an added edge in the industry.

“When journalists from abroad came to deliver workshops at my workplace, I wondered what it would be like to see, study and work in global newsrooms. I could also feel in those sessions that I needed to upgrade my skills. The UK is home to some of the largest media houses in the world, and is the epicentre of world politics. Thus, opting to study in the UK felt like an obvious choice.”

What do you enjoy most about your course at NTU?

“The course encompasses all elements of journalism and its teaching methodology, which is great as it makes me feel more like I’m in a working newsroom, rather than studying. The teaching methods here are quite different to what I’d been exposed to in India. There’s a good balance between theoretical and practical sessions, and a bigger focus on assignments rather than closed book exams.”

What do you think about the course staff?

“The lecturers and the technical staff have been amazing. They are hands-on and always helpful.”

As an international student, what do you like about studying and living in Nottingham?

“Nottingham is a student friendly city, and the weather here is probably one of the best in the UK. The residents are welcoming and warm, and the city has good transport services, which makes travelling around easy and comfortable."

Why would you recommend your course / NTU to someone looking to study MA News Journalism?

“I’d recommend my course and NTU primarily because of the teaching staff. The lecturers and technical staff are always there to help you. They are experienced and also help you find the necessary industry contacts.”

How do you think the course, and having a postgraduate qualification, will help you to progress your career?

“I think this degree has helped me understand how a newsroom works, and it will definitely be beneficial in my career. One of my greatest achievements at NTU so far is that I’ve been able to write some great stories.”