Aiming to nurture tomorrow’s journalists

“If you are curious, you will probably be a good journalist because we follow our curiosity like cats,” American television broadcast journalist Diana Sawyer

IN just a short span of five weeks, a cohort of Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS) students from the Faculty of Language and Communication Studies (FLC) will eagerly embark on an exciting journey as interns at the New Sarawak Tribune and Suara Sarawak. 

Having had the pleasure of meeting these aspiring journalists last week, their enthusiasm and anticipation for the upcoming internship are profound. 

This promising start sets the stage for what could be a mutually enriching experience for both the students and the media organisations.

Notably, among the group were several familiar faces, individuals I had the pleasure of meeting at previous events and programmes, including workshops and talks where I was invited as a speaker at UNIMAS.

It was genuinely heartening to encounter these familiar faces, particularly those who, during our previous interactions, exhibited a keen interest in understanding the intricacies of a journalist’s life. 

I would like to believe that the insights shared in those sessions have inspired them to embrace the challenge of exploring the dynamic world of journalism.

As the students gear up for their internship, it is crucial to emphasise the transformative potential of this experience. 

An internship is not merely a checkbox on the academic journey, it is a unique opportunity to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application. 

The real-world experiences gained during this period can significantly shape one’s future career paths and perspectives. 

The mindset to adopt during this time is one geared towards continuous learning and active engagement.

In our discussions, I stressed to the students the importance of proactively interacting with seasoned professionals in the newsrooms. 

This goes beyond mere observation as it involves asking questions, seeking guidance, and immersing oneself in the intricacies of the media industry. 

Understanding the day-to-day operations, from story ideation and research to the editorial process and the dynamics of news reporting is fundamental to gaining a holistic view of the journalism landscape.

Moreover, adaptability is key in today’s rapidly evolving media landscape. 

The significance of versatility cannot be overstated especially with the increasing importance of digital platforms and multimedia storytelling. 

I urged the interns to diversify their skill sets by not confining themselves to a single aspect of journalism.

With New Sarawak Tribune operating separate print and online news desks, this group of interns is very fortunate, as our editor-in-chief aims to provide them exposure to the best of both worlds.

In today’s workforce, I believe it is essential for individuals to be equipped with the ability to multitask and be multiskilled to ensure they remain relevant instead of being a one-trick pony.

It cannot be denied that there are those who prefer to stick to doing what they are good at, but I think it is important to recognise and accept things that can add value to you positively.

After all, sometimes it is not easy for us to see or recognise the potentials that we have and the great things that we can achieve through our own perspectives.

Often, this is something that only the seniors can see – in turn, they would challenge us to take on new tasks and responsibilities, which help pave the way forward.

Moreover, building meaningful connections is another cornerstone of a successful internship. 

Networking with professionals in the field can open doors to opportunities, provide insights into potential career paths, and foster a supportive community. 

At the same time, I encouraged the students not to see themselves as mere observers but as active contributors to the newsrooms. 

Their fresh perspectives and innovative ideas can inject new life into projects and initiatives. 

By taking initiatives and demonstrating a proactive attitude, they not only enhance their own learning experience but also become valuable assets to the organisations hosting them.

In essence, the upcoming internship is a golden opportunity for these UNIMAS students to immerse themselves fully in the world of media. 

It is a chance not only to apply their academic knowledge but also to cultivate essential skills, build professional relationships, and gain a deeper understanding of the media ecosystem. 

The more they learn and absorb during this period, the better equipped they will be for a successful and impactful career in the ever-evolving field of journalism. 

As they step into this transformative phase, may they seize every opportunity, ask every question, and contribute meaningfully, laying the foundation for a promising future in the dynamic realm of journalism.

The views expressed here are those of the writer and do not necessarily represent the views of the New Sarawak Tribune.