Earning a double degree in journalism and business management hasn’t merely been a milestone in my life; it has been a thrilling journey that has shaped who I am today. Graduating in 2007, I faced skepticism from naysayers who doubted my prospects. Yet, with persistence and determination, I managed to secure a full-time cadetship at a newspaper right out of the gate. How did I achieve this, you ask? I firmly believe that three key factors paved my path to success.
The Value of Work Experience
During my university years, I made a conscious decision to maximize my work experience opportunities. While my peers were soaking up the sun at the beach or reveling in movie outings, I was immersing myself in the vibrant chaos of a newsroom. My degree mandated a minimum of one internship; however, I was determined to go above and beyond and undertook additional placements.
Admittedly, entering the newsroom was often intimidating. At times, I felt like a fish out of water. Nevertheless, the real-world experiences I gained were invaluable. By the time I donned my cap and gown and entered the job market, I was not just another fresh graduate; I had bylines in multiple publications and a robust portfolio to showcase to prospective employers.
In my first (and only) job interview, the chief of staff surprised me by not even asking about my university grades. Instead, he keenly focused on my published work. That extensive work experience I gathered proved to be a game changer. It significantly illuminated the path toward my first role in journalism.
The Power of Perseverance
Residing on the Gold Coast in Australia, I had aspirations of working for the Gold Coast Bulletin, the region’s only daily newspaper. Back then, there was an enticing scholarship program available for high school seniors—a prestigious opportunity that would offer a guaranteed journalist position upon completion of university. I applied fervently but, regrettably, did not secure that coveted spot.
Disheartening as it was, the experience didn’t extinguish my ambition. They say there are multiple pathways to the same destination—and I had faith in that adage. After spending four years in university, I reapplied for a position at the Gold Coast Bulletin in 2007 with renewed resolve.
I vividly recall calling the chief of staff to ask if there were any job openings. His response was a polite no, but I didn’t let that deter my enthusiasm. I proceeded to drop off my resume and portfolio anyway, thinking it couldn’t hurt. To my surprise, I received a call later that afternoon, inviting me for an interview.
To my delight, the chief of staff offered me a position on the copy desk—a role primarily focused on answering phones and writing about children’s sporting achievements. It may not have been the glamorous start I envisioned, but it opened doors I was grateful to walk through, showcasing the importance of perseverance.
Embracing the Journey
Although my role on the copy desk was a stepping stone rather than my ultimate goal, I relished being in the newsroom. I understood that every great journey requires a starting point. I also recognized that if I didn’t secure a position at the Gold Coast Bulletin, I would have to consider relocating to kickstart my career in journalism. Flexibility and realistic expectations are critical for any graduate embarking on similar trails.
My time at the Gold Coast Bulletin spanned three fulfilling years, after which I explored the world, taking on various odd jobs during my travels. In 2014, I returned to the industry as a print journalist in Melbourne. The journey reached another exciting milestone in 2015 when I launched my own copywriting business. Today, I thrive as a freelance writer, crafting parenting, travel, and lifestyle articles for diverse publications—all from the comfort of my home office. I can genuinely say that I love what I do.
As I reflect on my career, I often share this wisdom with my kids: always reach for the stars, no matter how ambitious your dreams may seem. I took my own advice, and it has led me to achieve more than I ever imagined. What about you? What dreams do you hold closely, and what steps are you willing to take to reach them?
Each twist and turn in my journey, including the challenges and the triumphs, has shaped me into the individual I am today. In the ever-evolving field of journalism, persistence is your ally, and every small victory counts towards your ultimate success.
Edited By Ali Musa
Axadle Times International – Monitoring.
