As I researched, I realised Sheffield’s journalism degree was the strongest in the country, and I quickly set my heart on it

Journalism at Sheffield was the course for me

For most of secondary school, I was convinced I’d go to drama school. It was only when my A-Level teachers suggested I might want something that would challenge me more academically that I began exploring university options, just in case I found something I liked. I knew I didn’t want to study a straight English or Media degree, having already spent years immersed in both. When I discovered Sheffield’s Journalism Studies course, everything fell into place.

While I’ve always been curious, the degree combined what I loved about English and Media while allowing me to carry forward the skills I’d developed through theatre - public speaking, live performance, quick thinking and confidence under pressure. As I researched further, I realised Sheffield’s journalism degree was the strongest in the country, and I quickly set my heart on it.

The open day confirmed everything. Seeing the standard of students’ work and hearing about the course’s industry links reassured me it was the right choice. Graduating with an NCTJ qualification was the cherry on top and is something I am very grateful for now when applying for jobs.

Without the strength of my training in Sheffield, I wouldn’t have pushed myself to get some work experience at Sky News Australia

Honestly, there are many reasons why I love my degree. From investigative journalism to news projects, producing work with genuine value, and the potential to be published, is incredibly motivating. There are also fantastic opportunities to gain newsroom experience, both locally and nationally.

I’ve particularly appreciated the flexibility of the course. You don’t have to decide at 18 whether to take a placement year or study abroad, you choose in your second year. At a stage of life where there’s pressure to have everything mapped out, that freedom makes a real difference. My year abroad in Melbourne, Australia was a standout experience. Not only was I able to study new subjects, but the life experiences I gained was just as important as the academic learning. Without the strength of my training in Sheffield, I wouldn’t have pushed myself to get some work experience at Sky News Australia while I was out there.

Above all, it’s the people who make the course special. We are lucky to have a lot of contact hours and I’ve been able to build strong relationships with tutors, never feeling like just another face in a lecture hall. They genuinely invest in their students, offering guidance, encouragement, and honest feedback that pushes you to improve and grow in confidence. Without the tutors, the course wouldn’t be what it is and I truly believe they have shaped my experience. 

The degree is challenging, but that’s what makes it so rewarding.

There’s a strong practical focus alongside the academic work, and my writing has developed enormously as a result. My editorial judgement is sharper, and I approach stories with far more confidence and critical awareness than when I started.

Alongside my pre-existing skills with Adobe Premiere Pro, I’ve learned to use industry-standard software such as InDesign and Burli, creating radio packages, designing newspapers and magazines, and producing multimedia content. Developing the confidence to pitch ideas has been one of the most valuable parts of the course. Having the space to practice with tutor support has made me far more assured in presenting and defending my ideas independently to real news organisations.

I’m keen to build a career that allows me to use all my skills

This course has confirmed that journalism is the right path for me and I am beginning my search for a job once I graduate! The department works hard to make professional advice and industry insight accessible to students, which has been invaluable. I enjoy working across print, digital and broadcast, and I’m keen to build a career that allows me to use all my skills, rather than specialising too early.

The course is demanding, and it isn’t for everyone, but the communication, technical, and critical thinking skills you develop prepare you well not just for journalism, but for a fast-moving, digital world. I feel confident that the breadth and flexibility of what I’ve learned will set me up strongly for whatever direction my career takes throughout life.

What I’ve loved most about the University of Sheffield is how much there is to experience, both on campus and across the city itself.

Sheffield is full of character. The city has such a strong independent spirit, with so many cafés, restaurants and events. Having the Peak District right on your doorstep is such a privilege. Being able to finish a week of lectures in the city and then spend a day walking in the countryside with friends is so refreshing.

The biggest part of my university life has been the dance society. I joined in my first year and have been competing and choreographing ever since. The friendships, the long rehearsals, and the shared goals have shaped my entire university experience. There’s nothing quite like stepping onto a competition stage knowing how much work you’ve all put in across the season. Those moments of collective achievement are unforgettable. Being part of that team has truly made my time at Sheffield, and it’s something I know I’ll miss enormously when I leave.