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'); var jsonContent = new Array(textycount); jsonContent[textycount] = [{"pk": 23444, "model": "cms.comment", "fields": {"comment": "Hi Jess, no, you don't need a degree. There are journalism pre-entry courses that want A-levels, plus some FE colleges offer journalism at post-16, often mixed with media studies. If you want to study, check out what's on offer at your local colleges. And start writing via a blog, for websites or your local paper. If you can show commitment to a career, I expect colleges would look favourably on an application. Some local papers take trainees directly at age 18. Start asking around.\r
Good luck, Ed ", "name": "Ed Oldfield", "commenter": 21409, "avatar": "", "created_date": "2010-02-09 03:48:06", "texty": 6967}}, {"pk": 23364, "model": "cms.comment", "fields": {"comment": "Hi i am 18yrs old and left school at sixteen with only GCSE's. I have always wanted to be a journalist but have been told there is no way into it without a degree. Is this true? and if so what should i do, i cannot go back to college as i was expelled from my school and i doubt any colleges would accept me...looking forward to hearing from you...", "name": "Jess", "commenter": 22073, "avatar": "", "created_date": "2010-02-02 07:26:51", "texty": 6967}}, {"pk": 23122, "model": "cms.comment", "fields": {"comment": "Hi Mina, \r
Subjects are not so crucial at GCSE, but good spelling, grammar and presentation are important. Wide general knowledge is useful, so watch and read the news on TV, online and in print, local and national. Follow what you are good at and enjoy your studies!", "name": "Ed Oldfield", "commenter": 21409, "avatar": "", "created_date": "2010-01-15 15:20:04", "texty": 6967}}, {"pk": 23120, "model": "cms.comment", "fields": {"comment": "hii im a thirtenn yr old nd i would like to bee a journilist but what GCSES do i have 2 take because i hav to choose them thsnkz x", "name": "mina", "commenter": 21920, "avatar": "", "created_date": "2010-01-15 13:04:49", "texty": 6967}}, {"pk": 22615, "model": "cms.comment", "fields": {"comment": "Hi George,\r
You asked about grants to study internationally. The US-based International Centre for Journalists offers details of scholarships to study in the US. See http://www.icfj.org/programs.html.\r
The International Journalists' Network has lots of information about international study. See http://www.ijnet.org/. Let me know how you get on.", "name": "Ed Oldfield", "commenter": 21409, "avatar": "", "created_date": "2009-11-25 14:46:29", "texty": 6967}}, {"pk": 22613, "model": "cms.comment", "fields": {"comment": "Hi Sophie,\r
My answer is simple - get involved and get writing! Start a blog, it's free and easy at sites like Google's Blogger. There are many websites out there looking for unapid correspondents. \r
Write about what you know about, join Twitter, find an audience, even if it's just friends and family to start with. Contact your local newspaper and find out how to contribute news, reviews, sports reports. Get published where you can. Seek out advice from your editors to improve. Seeing your work published will boost your confidence. My best advice - go for it! Good luck. ", "name": "Ed Oldfield", "commenter": 21409, "avatar": "", "created_date": "2009-11-25 14:38:01", "texty": 6967}}, {"pk": 22609, "model": "cms.comment", "fields": {"comment": "Hi\r
Im going to university next year to study journalism but i want to become a more confident writer as i am worried that i am not good enough for the course. \r
Could you give me any advise on how to improve my writing ability and to become more confident?\r
Sophie Hives-Wood", "name": "Sophie Hives-Wood", "commenter": 21559, "avatar": "", "created_date": "2009-11-25 07:24:34", "texty": 6967}}, {"pk": 22598, "model": "cms.comment", "fields": {"comment": "I am a Diploma student of Journalism in Kenya.Looking for scholarship to train Internationally.How can I be helped?\r
Regards,\r
George.\r
+254-0720307388.", "name": "George Ochieng", "commenter": 21552, "avatar": "", "created_date": "2009-11-22 02:03:31", "texty": 6967}}, {"pk": 22539, "model": "cms.comment", "fields": {"comment": "According to Hannah Waldram, trainee journalists need to be taught how to be entrepreneurs alongside journalistic skills. Read more at http://hrwaldram.wordpress.com/2009/10/29/what-journalism-students-need-to-know-new-skills-for-a-new-model/", "name": "Ed Oldfield", "commenter": 21409, "avatar": "", "created_date": "2009-11-03 02:12:50", "texty": 6967}}, {"pk": 22440, "model": "cms.comment", "fields": {"comment": "Hi James,\r
\r
I would suggest you consider one of the fast track courses (see courses page) which will equip you with the basic skills, at a cost, but quicker than formal study. You don't need a degree, just a good grasp of language, writing flair and general knowledge. More important is attitude. They'll also be able to advise your best next step. \r
\r
Target sites/publications you want to work for, be prepared to do some unpaid work experience, and get your work published in print or online. \r
\r
Sport is hard to break straight into. You could start by reporting local sport for local papers/websites, unpaid. At least your words will get published and you can ask for advice, maybe even get some work experience in the office. Be prepared for hard graft and low or no pay at first. Remember, every reader counts, don't dismiss the importance of local media, there is plenty of talent and opportunity outside London. \r
\r
Set your sights on where you want to be and with determination, contacts and some luck you can do it. Good luck, Ed\r
", "name": "Ed Oldfield", "commenter": 21409, "avatar": "", "created_date": "2009-10-12 03:27:29", "texty": 6967}}, {"pk": 22439, "model": "cms.comment", "fields": {"comment": "Hi Ed\r
\r
I am desperate to get into Journalism.\r
\r
My 'career' within the financial services sector has gone down the pan with the world economy. I am 35, have always been heavily interested in journalism and current affairs, but for now regretable reasons i have never pursued my dream career. I am now at a crossroads in my life and career where if i don't do it now, i will never do it.\r
\r
I do not have a degree or any journalistic qualifications or experience - simply boundless enthusiasm to learn and get into a fresh, challenging new world. I have always been interested in current affairs and am a keen sportsman with a rather sad encyclopedic knowledge! - A Sports Journalist would be my dream job.\r
\r
Enough talk - the bottom line is, can you give me any advice and/or information about my best route(s) to getting into Journalism - training, courses, qualifications, freelance work - i'm prepared to travel/re-locate anywhere in the UK for any of the above potentially (gutted to have just missed the BBC scheme - is there anything else similar in existence?)\r
\r
Any help hugely appreciated\r
\r
regards\r
\r
James", "name": "James Fryer", "commenter": 21446, "avatar": "", "created_date": "2009-10-10 14:12:21", "texty": 6967}}, {"pk": 22415, "model": "cms.comment", "fields": {"comment": "Anyone fancy training to be a foreign correspondent? A not-for-profit organisation called TOL is holding a course for journalists and students in Prague, Czech Republic, from January 3-11, 2010. Find out more by emailing joann Plockova at plockovaj@tol.org or go to http://journalism-courses.tol.org.", "name": "Ed Oldfield", "commenter": 21409, "avatar": "", "created_date": "2009-10-01 11:37:49", "texty": 6967}}, {"pk": 22385, "model": "cms.comment", "fields": {"comment": "The BBC is recruiting now for its Journalism Training Scheme. There are 15 places available, the deadline for applications is October 7. Find out more here http://www.bbc.co.uk/jobs/jts/", "name": "Ed Oldfield", "commenter": 21409, "avatar": "", "created_date": "2009-09-24 12:18:30", "texty": 6967}}, {"pk": 22382, "model": "cms.comment", "fields": {"comment": "Dear Ed Oldfield \r
\r
Please add the names of the universities in India, where Journalism, PR, Mass Communication etc are thought. otherwise it will be a baised", "name": "Shah javid", "commenter": 21408, "avatar": "", "created_date": "2009-09-23 02:00:57", "texty": 6967}}, {"pk": 21626, "model": "cms.comment", "fields": {"comment": "Hi Ed,

Let me know if I can help with any advice for aspiring journalists struggling to get started in London - see andrewjknight.blogspot.com for CV, advice for students and updates on how past students have cracked the market.

Some (hopefully) useful advice for beginners can be found on journalism4schools.com

All the best

Andrew", "name": "Andrew Knight", "commenter": 21188, "avatar": "", "created_date": "2009-06-25 17:37:57", "texty": 6967}}, {"pk": 19389, "model": "cms.comment", "fields": {"comment": "How have trainees fared during the credit crunch? Are there any jobs out there? Why not post here any jobs you know about. And share your experiences of job-hunting in tough times. Just add a comment to make a post.", "name": "Ed Oldfield", "commenter": 20027, "avatar": "", "created_date": "2009-03-12 02:44:39", "texty": 6967}}, {"pk": 18871, "model": "cms.comment", "fields": {"comment": "Yes, I trained for journalism in 2006 and have struggled to find a job since then on a regional newspaper and magazine. My advice to you is to learn internet based journalism including HTML, Dreamweaver, and javascript, as well as WEB 2.0. If you still are finding it difficult, then why not start your own small internet journalism venture and not only try to make some money, but also show off your skills and all you have learned. I am building up a string of websites, including, www.plenty2say.com, www.plentyonyourplate.com, and now a blogging and journalism tips website www.chris-gaynor.com.\r
\r
If you fancy writing a contribution then email me on cgeditor12@googlemail.com\r
\r
Good luck with it all...", "name": "Chris Gaynor", "commenter": 19601, "avatar": "photos/noavailable.png", "created_date": "2009-02-26 07:07:51", "texty": 6967}}, {"pk": 18202, "model": "cms.comment", "fields": {"comment": "Hi Elizabeth,

Have a look at our website: http://www.workexperiencefinder.com. We have lots of unpaid (and a few paid) internships / work experience placements at magazines, newspaper, pr agencies and publishing houses.

Good luck!

WorkExperienceFinder.com - the free website for work experience placements and internships in the media and creative industries.", "name": "Matt", "commenter": 20756, "avatar": "", "created_date": "2009-02-10 04:04:35", "texty": 6967}}, {"pk": 16432, "model": "cms.comment", "fields": {"comment": "December 2008: Credit Crunch update\r
\r
The last few months have seen jobs lost right across the media, due to the economic slowdown and restructuring. But don't despair. The credit crunch has speeded up change brought about by the move to digital platforms. Most jobs that have gone are in production. Content is still needed, and so are reporters! So while jobs may be in short supply in the short-term, when the economy picks up, as it surely will due to the cyclical nature of business, there will be many more opportunities in a more focused industry. Now's a good time to train to take advantage of the upturn. Just make sure you know how to make a video and write a blog as well take a good shorthand note. Good luck. \r
", "name": "Ed Oldfield", "commenter": 20027, "avatar": "photos/noavailable.png", "created_date": "2008-12-27 13:49:19", "texty": 6967}}, {"pk": 14823, "model": "cms.comment", "fields": {"comment": "Hi Elizabeth\r
\r
Firstly, choose some magazines and newspapers you would like to work for and write or email with your CV saying when you are available. Many local newspapers will offer short-term work experience, although usually limited to people living in the area. Try this link http://www2.gorkanapr.com/jobs/journalist which posts internships as well as jobs, mostly in London. You're unlikely to get paid, although some will pay expenses. Good luck, Ed ", "name": "Ed Oldfield", "commenter": 20027, "avatar": "photos/noavailable.png", "created_date": "2008-11-21 12:49:16", "texty": 6967}}, {"pk": 14716, "model": "cms.comment", "fields": {"comment": "Mr. Oldfield,

Do you have any advice on finding internships/trainee programs in the UK? I'm an American student at St. Andrews, and have journalism experience in the states, but I would really like to find something here this summer. I'd appreciate any tips you have.

Elizabeth", "name": "Elizabeth", "commenter": 20438, "avatar": "photos/noavailable.png", "created_date": "2008-11-18 06:47:30", "texty": 6967}}, {"pk": 14290, "model": "cms.comment", "fields": {"comment": "you got 2 have nose for news.", "name": "lilian", "commenter": 20328, "avatar": "photos/noavailable.png", "created_date": "2008-10-27 07:28:12", "texty": 6967}}, {"pk": 13508, "model": "cms.comment", "fields": {"comment": "Hi Angela - Tough question. Take advice from wherever you can - parents, teachers, lecturers, careers advisers, journalists. My view is that going to uni is life-changing and opens a world of opportunity - take the chance if you can. But it also costs. Study what you are interested in and will enjoy. Three years is a long slog.\r
If you are sure you want to be a journalist, you could consider a journalism BA course with plenty of practical experience that includes preparation for NCTJ prelim exams. That is what employers are looking for. \r
Otherwise you could take a postgraduate or shorter pre-entry course after graduating in almost any subject. Again, employers are looking for personality, commitment and experience. \r
Most importantly, start writing now - start a blog, write for your parish, school or uni magazine or website, get in touch with your local newspaper and write for it, contribute music reviews to websites, write about anything you know about and enjoy. \r
The best courses and jobs are highly competitive. So be pro-active and persistent. Make the most of your opportunities. Good luck. ", "name": "Ed Oldfield", "commenter": 20027, "avatar": "photos/noavailable.png", "created_date": "2008-08-24 04:46:27", "texty": 6967}}, {"pk": 13349, "model": "cms.comment", "fields": {"comment": "is journalism just a made up un-pure subject in most uni's? shall i do journalism,then straight after uni will i be accepted to any magazine/newspaper well anything do with journalism. Or would it be much better to do a so-called 'pure-subject'..such as a BA subject that involves writing..! I'm so confused...could anyone tell me any subjects that i could possibly do in uni that will mean i have a strong possibility of becoming a journalist's.", "name": "angela", "commenter": 19961, "avatar": "photos/noavailable.png", "created_date": "2008-08-15 04:54:07", "texty": 6967}}, {"pk": 12609, "model": "cms.comment", "fields": {"comment": "Journalism is challenging, rewarding, and above all frustrating.", "name": "Chris", "commenter": 19601, "avatar": "", "created_date": "2008-07-10 11:29:37", "texty": 6967}}, {"pk": 12474, "model": "cms.comment", "fields": {"comment": "Journalism is a noble profession,although challenging especially in developing countries. But we must always strive to report accurately.", "name": "Ismaila Naban", "commenter": 19530, "avatar": "", "created_date": "2008-07-04 17:29:46", "texty": 6967}}] ; var path = 'http://texty.com/'+'media/'; maxCommentsPerPage = 20; start = 0; end = jsonContent[textycount].length; comment = ""; for (i = start; i < end; i++) { comment = comment + '
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