Creative Freedom and Unique Opportunities | Elaysha Smith’s Journalism Journey at Roehampton

When I decided to pursue a degree in Journalism, it was because of my passion for learning and uncovering stories that matter. I’ve always enjoyed shedding light on overlooked issues and digging for deeper truths. I chose Roehampton because the modules aligned perfectly with my goals, and the university’s accommodating nature assured me I’d feel comfortable and supported here.

The Creative Freedom

What I love most about studying Journalism at Roehampton is the creative freedom it offers. It’s a field that allows me to explore my ideas and approach storytelling in unique ways. This freedom has been incredibly empowering and has helped me develop my voice as a journalist.

To excel in my course, I’ve relied on software like Adobe After Effects and Microsoft Word. These tools are integral to modern journalism, and mastering them has been an important part of my learning journey.

Skills That Matter

Journalism demands resilience and adaptability. Rejection is an inevitable part of the process—whether it’s from potential interviewees or story leads that don’t pan out. Staying flexible and pushing forward are essential traits for success in this field.

Memorable Opportunities

One of the most rewarding aspects of my degree has been the incredible projects and interviews I’ve undertaken. Some of my favourite experiences include using my role as a student journalist to interview influencers I admire and creating a safe space for interviewees to share their stories. These moments have been incredibly fulfilling. I’ve had the chance to speak with professional athletes, medical professionals, and YouTubers, learning their stories and bringing them to light.

Life at Roehampton

Two things about Roehampton have stood out to me: the state-of-the-art radio studios and the extensive industry experience of my lecturers. My lecturers, particularly Sean and Juan, have shared countless insights from their professional careers. Their guidance and willingness to answer all questions—even the “silly” ones—have been invaluable.

As a commuting student, I’ve used the Roehampton bus, which has been a helpful resource. On campus, I frequently visit the library and the radio studio, especially in my role as Vice President of the Radio Society. My favourite spot? Grove House and The Lake—it’s a stunning area that provides a sense of calm and helps ease academic nerves.

Career Support

Roehampton has been instrumental in helping me move closer to my career goals. One highlight was being accepted onto the Royal Television Society Scheme, where I connected with leading industry professionals. It’s opportunities like these that make a huge difference in a competitive field like journalism.

Studying Journalism often requires flexibility and availability, which can sometimes clash with part-time work. However, it has allowed me to embrace spontaneous opportunities and attend various events, enriching my learning experience.

Looking ahead, my dream is to enter the documentary field, focusing on research and development. I’m excited about the potential to delve into meaningful stories and contribute to thought-provoking projects.

Advice for Future Students

If you’re considering studying Journalism at Roehampton, my advice is simple: Do your research. Look into the modules and ensure they align with your interests and career aspirations. If they do, you’ll find Roehampton to be a supportive and inspiring place to grow as a journalist.

To find out more about this course please visit our website.

The University of Roehampton changes lives by helping our students to develop the confidence, knowledge and values they need for a successful and fulfilling life. We produce world-class research that helps us understand the world and change it for the better.

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