How can i go about getting work experience in media.?

Question

I am 16 years old and in the near future i would like a job in either

radio production/ presenting

tv production/presenting

columnist for a newspaper/magazine

Do u know how I can get this type of work experience or any experience in media work at my age.

Answer 1

First things first - you need to be realistic. Of the millions of teens wanting a job in radio/production/newspaper columns...only a select few make it.

You have to be the best and you have to be driven, dedicated and willing to walk over anyone who gets in your way. You also have to see the realities of the job so do your research...ie journalists in local newspapers (where you'll start) only get about £12,000 a year...now that's shocking non?

If you want to start out well do work on your school newspaper...if they don't have one do what I did and start one and become the Editor. Bonus!

Then look to get experience on your local newspaper - you'll be making tea but every little counts...

You then need to go to uni to study either a specific production degree or a journalism degree - never media studies because employers hate it and only those unable to get onto a journalism course do media studies!

Then select your perferred sector adn stick to it like glue and work work work your **** off while all the while having a toe in the water - ie get more experience where/when ever you can...work your way up slowly and surely and you'll get there if you're among the lucky few...

I hate to be negative but you really can't take this lightly. If you want to do this give it your all or there's no point trying!

Media and slackers don't mix. There is a lot of work for very little pay - the bonuses are that  its a great job - if you can get one!!

Answer 2

Unless your school has a vocational program for TV/radio or audio/visual department that you can join, it may be difficult for you to get experience in the field at this point.  However, determination and persistence are necessary if you are going to succeed in any facet of journalism.  You can try contacting the PBS affiliate, city, county or public access stations in your area (found on local government’s website), and also commercial radio and TV stations in your area to see if they will let you volunteer.  Try to prepare some sort of academic resume, writing samples and even letters of reference from your teachers before you approach the stations.  

For print/online journalism, starting your own blog where you report on local happenings or write editorial columns about news items is a great way to showcase your writing skills and build an online portfolio.  Good luck to you.

Answer 3

I'm in that major right now in college. First, what most teachers/people in the business recommend is to work on your high school newspaper. While you may not be what your looking for, it's great experience and shows that you have learned the basics of fundamental journalism/media writing. A second option is to go to your local newspaper or broadcast stations in your city/town and see if you can get any job there even if its sorting through mail. Being around that environment teaches you a lot.

It will be harder to find a job in that area at your age. What you will probably find is side jobs that help people in those areas.

Most importantly find a college that has a good journalism program. Then talk to your journalism teachers and they are very helpful in hooking you up with important people. Hoped this helped! Good luck

Answer 4

Contact your local papers and do work experience there over the summer holidays.