Journalism Personal Statement Example 5

Askoxford.com defines a journalist as 'a person who writes for newspapers and magazines or prepares news or features to be broadcast on radio or television'. This to me is a hollow definition, being a journalist is much more than just writing for a newspaper or magazine. Being a journalist is to go into the world and find stories which will educate, inform,evaluate, uncover, expose and trigger people's interests and emotions. The passion and enthusiasm to go out into the world and find stories sometimes from nothing, and turn them into a publication is much more than just writing. My passion within journalism is much more than just writing the articles, I take great interest in researching the target audience and profile, by using primary research such as interviews and questionnaires I can create more accurate and interesting articles which will use quotes and are easily referenced. Utilizing all the information from my research I can trigger different emotions in people and make people think differently. Being a journalist means being socially, legally and ethically aware, I also have to keep in mind the Press Complaints Commission when writing any of my articles.

Since studying for my BTEC National Diploma at college I have had the chance to study a variety of different units which have given me an insight into the structure of various media industries. After working on different units I found my passion was in units that I had to write articles for, my best unit so far was Writing and Editing Copy. This unit gave me a chance to write a number of articles for different publications and audiences. This unit enabled me to utilize my skills to the fullest. I also enjoyed Photography because I learnt the semiotics of a photograph can express a story with just one look and how much more powerful an article can become with a photograph. The course has been a vital step to further education giving me the confidence, determination and discipline to become a journalist.

As a mature student I have already experienced "the real world" and although I have worked in jobs that I was only in to earn money, they have given me valuable skills that I can take with me on my journey to becoming a journalist. I worked in a packing company and worked my way up to a production supervisor. In this role I had to run a group of people to meet targets and deadlines, brief my colleagues and help out where required. I have also worked in the role of assistant manager at a night club, this has given me excellent communication skills as I often have to talk to a diverse group of people, which will help me while researching my articles. In my first year of college I was also nominated to represent my class, I had to be the voice of the class and to help solve any problems my peers had. From all of my jobs I have gained some skills that I can take on and utilize in my career as a journalist. I can work to targets and deadlines with ease. From all of my jobs it is clear to see that I can take on the roll of leadership well and solve problems not only for myself but for others as well.

I have a keen interest in reading nonfiction books. My favorite nonfiction books being the Harry Potter series, as it adds a new dimension of imagination. I also like to keep up to date with the news, watching various news programs and reading newspapers. My favorite news paper to read is The Sun, I also like to read The Guardian. I enjoy listening to a diverse range of music from indie to electro.
I am highly motivated toward a career in journalism, and I believe I have the skills, qualities and passion needed in order to cope with the demands of your course. Doing a degree in journalism would be a stepping stone to my future career and I am looking forward to doing a degree which will enable me to achieve this.