Sports journalism degree puts graduate back in the game
Changing his choice of university has paid off for a Staffordshire graduate who is heading to China to work at the Asian Games next month.
After starting a degree in Sports Science, Harry Bamforth realised he wasn’t enjoying it and took the leap to study BA (Hons) Sport Journalism at Staffordshire University instead.
The 23-year-old from Evesham explained: “I've always loved sport and followed sport my whole life. So, I looked at the course at Staffordshire University and started speaking to the people here and my mind was made up straight away.
“They showed me all the cameras and all the laptops and the radio studios. I was wowed and it literally took me two minutes to make up my mind.”
He added: “It was a risk because I'd already been to university. I was a bit worried about what I was going to do in my life, but it's the best risk I've ever taken.”
Taught by experienced academics, students have access to Staffordshire University’s multiplatform newsroom featuring 30 iMacs with the latest software, a three-camera studio floor and gallery, plus industry standard radio studios.
Students get to put their skills into practice during regular ‘news days’ and are encouraged to do industry work placements. During his studies, Harry did internships at Port Vale F.C., Forest Green Rovers F.C., plus Premier League club Brentford F.C. He also had chance to volunteer at the Commonwealth Games.
After gaining a first class degree, Harry will be flying out to China in September for his first graduate job covering the Asian Games.
“It's evident now when I've been job seeking that these experiences help you and if you don't have them, it can make life a bit trickier. So, make sure you get out there, you'll learn so much.” Harry commented.
“That's given me this opportunity to get a job, an actual job freelancing, at the Asian Games and I’m really excited.
“Sports journalism was my true calling in the end and I never realised that until I took the leap. I would advise anyone who's worrying about what they're going to do and whether the course is right for them at the start, you've got time so choose what's right for you. I made that decision and it's paid off!”
Hear more from Harry on Staffordshire University’s YouTube channel.
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Amy Platts
Media Communications Officer
t: 01782 292702
m: 07799 341911
e: amy.platts@staffs.ac.uk
Staffordshire University’s ambition is to become the UK’s best modern university. An institution with a strong civic mission, it has committed to being a ‘catalyst for change’ for students and businesses, positively impacting wider society and the regional economy.
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