PDF (Final author copy) 132181 - FAC - ...pdf | Request a copy Full text restricted

Abstract

In the context of rapidly changing newsrooms and a constriction in entry-level positions for graduates, the Europe and Australia in the World (WORLDREP) programme seeks to prepare students by pairing freelance journalism with overseas training and exchange. However, the entrepreneurial focus of the course must be weighed against the challenges and idiosyncratic hiring criteria that graduates face on their return home. This article discusses interviews with former Tasmanian participants to compare what the students felt they acquired during the course with perceived barriers and challenges post-graduation. We find that the programme’s freelance focus cultivates a range of applied skills, an extensive publication portfolio and professional confidence. However, interviewees also reported that a lack of local newsroom contacts – traditionally provided through newsroom internships – constitutes a hurdle on their return home. This prompts a discussion about how to complement exchange programmes with local networking and professional development initiatives that can ground what students have learnt overseas in local journalism practice.

Item Type:	Article
Authors/Creators:	Dodd, B and Konkes, C and Reid, D and Lester, L
Keywords:	journalism education, entrepreneurial journalism, habitus, freelance journalism, social capital, Australian journalism, the journalistic field
Journal or Publication Title:	Australian Journalism Review
Publisher:	Intellect Ltd
ISSN:	0810-2686
DOI / ID Number:	10.1386/ajr.41.1.85_1
Copyright Information:	© 2019 Intellect Ltd Article.
Related URLs:	Google Scholar: Konkes, C UTAS Profile: Konkes, C Google Scholar: Reid, D UTAS Profile: Reid, D Google Scholar: Lester, L UTAS Profile: Lester, L
Item Statistics:	View statistics for this item

Actions (login required)

Item Control Page