When I started as editor of The Newsroom, I wrote about the importance of doing what you love.
As my time at Macleay draws to a close I’ve been reflecting on that notion again, as the prospect of finally starting my career looms ahead, both bright and petrifying. The thought of being out on my own in the real world is really daunting, and the fear of not finding a job is starting to niggle at my mind.
But with that said, I know Macleay has given us all the tools we need to be successful. We are trained to be multiskilled journalists, competent and capable in a range of journalistic mediums. We have all completed internships and been exposed to working newsrooms and publications. We’ve had the pleasure (some may say otherwise) of learning teeline shorthand, a vital tool for journalists. We’ve also had the privilege to learn from industry leaders, a truly valuable experience.
Journalism can never be silent: That is its greatest virtue and its greatest fault. It must speak, and speak immediately, while the echoes of wonder, the claims of triumph and while the signs of horror are still in the air.
– Henry Anatole Grunwald
But perhaps the best learning experience we’ve had has been here, in The Newsroom.
I’m a strong believer in the idea that the best way to learn something is by actually doing it. Sometimes the classroom just doesn’t cut it, so having exposure to how a newsroom runs and operates has been invaluable. We were all assigned jobs and were told to take them seriously, treating them as we would a paid position. We were required to pitch, write and edit our own stories. There were six section heads who worked hard to manage their respective teams, just as a real section editor would do.
I was overseeing all of this. My time being editor of The Newsroom has been an incredible journey. There have been lots of highs and a couple of lows as well. It’s been busy, fast-paced, challenging and rewarding. I’ve learnt a lot, and have grown both as an aspiring journalist and as a person.
Because I’ve known throughout my time at Macleay that I have been working towards my goal of becoming a journalist, I’ve loved every minute. And as much as I look forward to starting my career, I’m really sad to be leaving something I’ve enjoyed so much, and that I’ve got so much from.
I’d like to pay homage to my wonderful team this trimester, with whom I’ve come to share some great memories. You’ve each brought your own individual quirks and talents to The Newsroom, and I’ve loved working with all of you. Keep chasing what it is you love and there is no doubt you will find success.
So au revoir, and good luck to you all. I look forward to seeing you out in the world of journalism very soon. – Sacha Barbour
Top photo: press photographers jostle for position at a field briefing during the Korean War.
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