Journalism students impress during industry visit

A leading regional newspaper editor dropped in on Multimedia Journalism students earlier this month to answer questions about his career and to discuss the future of news media.

Mark Drew, Group Deputy Editor for the Express & Star and Shropshire Star, joined Level 4 Multimedia Journalism students for their weekly News Writing class and workshop on Monday 11 December. 

Journalism and Media lecturer Lynn Butler said: “Mark gave up several hours out of a busy news day, which the students really appreciated. His visit helped the students reflect on the journalism skills and knowledge they have developed in their first semester.”

She added: “Mark was really impressed by their news writing skills and story ideas which gave them a real confidence boost. They also made an important industry link – vital in a profession where networking is key.”

Having begun his career in newspaper in 1991, Mark told students at the University’s Screen School that the future of journalism was bright, with podcasting and digital media platforms opening up career paths for multi-skilled journalists entering the industry.

Mark commented: “I thoroughly enjoyed the visit and was really impressed by the facilities at the University. It was a pleasure to speak to the students, who came up with some great ideas and questions.”

Students discussed the impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on journalism, roles within a newsroom and how to build a network of contacts. They also received feedback on assignment work. Their recent stories have focused on subject areas as broad as the local Taylor Swift fandom to a crisis in recruiting football referees in the West Midlands.

Level 4 Multimedia Journalism students Holly Fawdrey and Chris Gilbert felt that Mark’s visit had inspired them to think about a broader range of roles within journalism. Holly explained: “Before the visit, I hadn't really looked into writing for a newspaper as I really like the idea of presenting. However, since the visit, I am more open to jobs in other areas of journalism.”

"Having Mark read and give feedback on my first written article was really useful,” said Kaitlyn Guy, also in the first year of her degree. “Understanding what a professional outside of the University setting thinks of my work has got me thinking about how to improve my writing for future projects. Talking about his experience within the industry helped me understand the endless web of possibilities for my future career in journalism after my degree."

Jess Potts, studying at Level 4, added: “Talking about changes in the industry due to technology advancements and mentioning AI and how that impacts the industry was interesting. The whole class was engaged throughout the session and thoroughly enjoyed learning from Mark.”