I decided to enrol in The Professional Freelance Journalism Course as I had been writing a weekly column for a local paper and wanted to further my writing skills while gaining a qualification. I work as a music teacher and I’m studying for my master’s degree, so I was looking for a flexible way of learning. The British College of Journalism offered the perfect course for me. I was able to read the tutorials at my own convenience and submit assignments when time allowed.
The content of the course was very useful. All aspects of freelance journalism were covered thoroughly with expert advice from a wide variety of professional journalists. The course not only covers the act of writing good copy but all aspects of the industry such as contacting editors, photography, PR work, etc. The course was flexible enough that the assignments could be tailored around my passion (music). This allowed me to really engage with the course.
The feedback from my tutor was always encouraging and any advice given was constructive and helpful. The personal feedback was invaluable as it helped me to tighten up my writing and come up with a variety of concise feature ideas.
Having completed the course, I am more confident in my own writing. My writing style has developed personality and I have been inspired to write every day. I feel like I am more able to develop strong ideas and pitch them to editors. My family and friends were really pleased to hear that I had graduated from the course as they know me as a musician and it came as a surprise to many of them!
During the course, I have written for the York Press and a number of music websites including www.smartbassguitar.com. Since graduating, I have approached, and been commissioned, to write a feature article for a national music magazine.
I have also been inspired to set up my own music blog which will combine feature articles, reviews and educational material for music students.
