I stumbled upon catch 22 when getting a foot into the journalism door seemed less and less likely. Within the media sphere, my qualifications and experience meant I didn't have a leg to stand on, let alone the foot to wedge in the tiny door that rarely opens. Little progress, and the constant demands of living expenses meant that time and energy was being diverted away from my personal interests and aspirations. Never-ending job searches and applications with no response became as normal as the need to eat and breath. The difference being is that this provided no substance.
When there seemed to be no more routes of attack, a fellow youth worker informed me of the Catch 22 Academy that provided a gateway for people in similar circumstances. Being lucky enough to gain place on the 12 week academy course I have embarked on a journey that aims to provide me with the skills, knowledge and experience to begin a career in journalism.
Halfway through the course, I'm ready for a form of 'before and after' self analysis. I had preconceptions on the world of journalism and where I was placed within it. This position has evolved. Being taught by experienced professionals has provided practical skills and knowledge. I am becoming more aware of press etiquette and good practice, developing confidence to perform interviews and create my own magazine feature. The activity of practical learning is key. Getting out in the field and putting skills and initiative to good use doesn't always lead to a successful news piece but there is a positive outcome. You are challenged as an individual learning from mistakes and building on successes. The course is interactive as a group, it is a mixed bunch that makes up the cohort of students, each with some degree of specialism or interest, giving the weekly news round-up some healthy debates.
So to date I can conclude that I've become more aware of what I need to do to get where I want to go, I'm being provided with the tools and workshop, it's now up to me to create the product.
