Hello any potential readers out there who have been vaguely interested in my blog and my apologies for what has been a very long break from my posts. This is just a brief notice that I will be submitting weekly posts once again listing the varying media opportunities out there for those of which are interested in any internships and work experience in journalism, publishing, etc, etc. Without wanting to sound braggy at all, I also wanted to share some of my internships I've been so lucky to secure this year and some tips on how to get them.
So around the time of my last post, I managed to secure an internship at Press Association which I found to be such an great opportunity and would recommend to anyone looking into the field of journalism. I worked on the features desk but obviously Press Association also have their news desk and their company works and writes for varying magazines and other media outlets so you find yourself in quite an energy-packed and busy place. For me, I got to write pieces for some big name magazines which is always useful to have on my CV as well as the more dull admin work which you expect. I was offered a month there but could only do two weeks due to exams coming up but even in that time, I got to do a lot in it and came away really happy that I got to get that opportunity.
I understand that it is not easy getting an internship there as it goes to a lot of students in journalism degree but I inquired about work experience, sent my CV and cover letter and was offered a placement so don't be undeterred. The people are lovely, kind and welcoming which is always a big plus and you feel part of a team - something I find lacking in a place like the Times where it is apparent for those five days that you are not wanted there.
After exams and graduating - see, I had a busy year so blame my lack of blogging on the trials and tribulations of having to leave university and come to terms with being an adult - I spent the summer doing some waiting until my two other internships that I managed to secure over half a year ago and was reluctant to give up. In that time, by fluke to be honest, I was half-halfheartedly (as I doubted I could get one assuming that all places would be taken already) searching around for any available internships at a publishing house that summer and got one at Granta Publications for a month. This is simply because an intern dropped out last minute and they were searching for someone to take their place. Now as an English Literature graduate, my work there was an absolute dream.
In an editorial position at a book publishers, my work included reading and assessing manuscripts which is basically reading books which I certainly have three years experience in. Finally, a position that makes sense! I got to work in other departments, draft press releases and work in the post room - a lot of work which has given me so much to put down on my CV and I am so ever grateful for. The people were, again, lovely, however, Granta does have a history of editors leaving and the empty chairs suggest a daunting future for anyone attempting to get into publishing. Another plus from the amount of work you are given, Granta pays £75 a week for expenses and that was a relief for myself as zero-hours waiting meant my bank balance was at a state that meant I was choosing to ignore it. It doesn't help that Granta was situated in Shepherd's Bush where I spent many a lunch time at Westfields feeling sorry for myself. However, back to the internship, you are given a lot of support, experience and necessary insight into how publishing works and I would advise anyone interested do apply.
So my next two internships are at the Observer and Simon and Schuster - so yeah, I have been so very lucky to have given gotten internships at these big names. I will be giving a review of the two and I will also be writing up a post on publishing houses and other media companies who offer paid internships which I think everyone would agree is important. I'm not completely sure how I got these internships although with these two it was so very long ago so the bigger the name, the further in advance you have to apply. Also, don't always wait for websites to list out opportunities. Look up UK lists of publishing houses, newspapers, etc. Apply straight to their website to the relevant department you wish to intern in, maybe show in your email a little knowledge you have of them and explain why you would be an asset to them. Sometimes, your email may just come at the right moment. Of course, competition is fierce, there are not enough internships let alone jobs going round in this sector, and we are expected to work for free which can be frustrating and for many people not even an option. But, the upside - and I do want to conclude glass half full - there are always opportunities and, so long as you keep trying and applying, you will get one.
As always, thanks for reading!
No comments:
Post a Comment