Ö÷²¥´óÐã

It may sound like a cliché, but every day I pinch myself when I realise I’m part of this industry.

I’ve wanted to work in journalism since I was studying for my GCSEs almost eight years ago. But my love of media started when I was six years old, recording my own radio shows on a cassette player. My guinea pig wasn’t the most engaging contributor, but we all have to start somewhere.

The last eight months have flown by. I’ve had some amazing experiences - from interviewing Irish singer Gavin James to meeting Ö÷²¥´óÐã director general Tony Hall. I was also part of the digital team who documented the Children in Need canoe challenge for social media.

I’m given the opportunity to come up with ideas and create content for the Ö÷²¥´óÐã Three Counties social media pages, which is one of many buzzes I get from this job.

Seeing videos I’ve created on a Ö÷²¥´óÐã forum, telling people’s stories in a way that’s sharable and reaches so many people, gives me a sense of pride I can’t describe in words. And my confidence in myself and my ability grows when I receive positive feedback for my work.

A few years ago my confidence had taken a dent. I had to leave my journalism course at a local university for personal reasons and had given up hope of working in the industry.

What I hadn’t realised is that there are always other paths to take.

This apprenticeship has allowed me to train with professionals from across the Ö÷²¥´óÐã. I’m also studying for an NCTJ (National Council for the Training of Journalists) qualification, giving me the theoretical knowledge I need (basically how not to get sued!) alongside the practical skills I’m learning.

Every day is different. Whether I’m filming a video for Facebook or supporting a live broadcast, l experience something new - which is unlike any job I’ve had in the past.

My colleagues and the people at Ö÷²¥´óÐã Academy will continue to help make me into the best journalist I can be. They inspire me every day.

This is one of the best experiences I have ever had. I’d recommend it to anyone who wants to be in the media industry.