BCU Media students and alumni share their top tips for success in journalism and media careers, including networking, adaptability and real-world experience.
Across BCU's Media and Journalism courses, students and alumni are gaining industry recognition for their work, from national journalism awards to high-profile newsroom roles. In this blog, uncover some of the most valuable tips from BCU's most successful Media students.
Adaptability opens doors
Kirsty Card, who studied BA (Hons) Journalism at BCU, was nominated for three industry awards. Her advice centres on flexibility:
“Be able to adapt to different styles of writing and don’t be afraid to embrace tools that can help you.”
Kirsty’s award-nominated work combined personal storytelling with data journalism and open-source research. She explains that adapting to different newsroom styles has been just as important:
“Reporting for The Daily Star was a very different experience to working at the Express & Star, where I am now, learning to switch styles really mattered.”
Think creatively and be persistent
Saskia Masaun, who graduated from the BA (Hons) Journalism course in 2022 and was nominated in three categories, learned the value of creative thinking while working at BBC West Midlands:
“Always think outside the box.”
When covering a major breaking story, Saskia gathered audience reaction using social media and street interviews, creating content that aired the very next morning.
“Don’t wait for editors, come up with your own ideas and don’t be scared to share them.”
Use core reporting skills
Traditional journalism techniques still matter. Luke Powell, a BA (Hons) Sports Journalism graduate and Newcomer of the Year nominee, stresses the importance of direct contact:
“Pick up the phone, and just ask.”
Luke credits many of his strongest stories to conversations with councillors and community figures, as well as careful use of public documents and local social media groups.
Get involved, get feedback, get seen
Other BCU students highlighted habits that helped them stand out:
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Eryn Macaulay encourages students to research widely, stay active in their communities and build networks early.
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Kienna Dennis emphasises resilience and openness to critique.
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Isabel Matthews found that sharing her achievements publicly helped her gain recognition.
Focus on impact, not just recognition
Journalist Dylan Hayward reminds students that awards are not the end goal:
“Never forget who you serve: the readers who deserve to know what’s happening on their streets.”
While recognition can be motivating, Dylan believes success is measured by the difference your work makes.
Learn by doing
George Willoughby, who studied an MA in Data Journalism at BCU and is now a British Journalism Awards nominee, credits hands-on learning for his career progression:
“The real learning is through practical experience.”
By embedding data and coding skills into everyday work, George built the foundations for investigative projects that later helped him secure a role at The Times.
Key takeaways
From adaptability and initiative to creativity and persistence, BCU Media students consistently highlight one message, the best way to learn is by doing. Whether you’re considering a Media and Journalism course or already studying at BCU, these insights show how skills developed at university can translate into industry recognition and meaningful careers.