There is no one way to become a journalist

Catriona Aitken, digital journalist, BBC Wales News and NCTJ ambassador stresses that there is no one way to become a journalist to young people looking to break into the industry and talks about her experiences with the NCTJ in a recent social video and blog.

Read her full blog below:

When you’re waiting for exam results, or have just received that long-awaited envelope, what the future holds can feel really daunting.

I remember being there, knowing I had an interest in the news and writing, but not being quite sure what that meant for the future.

I went off to study international relations at the University of St Andrews, and it was while being a student that I was able to consolidate that interest in journalism. I secured various work experience placements with local and regional newspapers and got involved in student media – working my way up to features editor of my student paper.

It was that portfolio that set me in good stead when I started looking at NCTJ courses. I was drawn to an accredited course because I wanted my further study to be very practical and I like learning on the job, and I ended up having a wonderful year at Cardiff University.

From there, I got my first job at local papers before starting at the BBC four years ago, where I now write and sub-edit online news as well as trying out radio, TV and social media content. Every day is different, which I love.

I work with a huge team of talented colleagues and all our paths into the newsroom were slightly different — there is no one way.

So if you’re looking at your results and wondering what your next steps might be, feel free to reach out to the NCTJ ambassadors or browse accredited courses.

Most importantly, well done, and good luck!

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