A LETTER TO FIRST YEAR STUDENT

Congratulations, you made it to university! As you celebrate your newfound freedom and a world with no routines or supervision, allow me to spoil the fun with a dose of reality.

Whether you are pursuing Journalism or Communication Studies, you are on track to join a profession that is both envied and criticized in equal measure. We are members of the Fourth Estate, expected to serve as watchdogs over government and other institutions, inform and educate the public, and entertain.

Why is media celebrated?

Journalists interact with high-profile figures and report on major events. This is the career that will have you rubbing shoulders with top government officials and celebrities, connecting you to influential names both locally and internationally. It is a profession that may see you dining in luxurious hotels and navigating rooms you never imagined entering.

As a journalist, your unique writing style, appearance, or even your voice can elevate you to celebrity status among your audience and turn your name into a household brand.

You may appear on screens, billboards, magazines, or even have your image painted on PSV vehicles around town. You will be invited to red carpet events and press conferences in places you never thought you would set foot in.

But all this comes at a price. Look around your class. Only a quarter of your coursemates will make a name in this profession. I know that sounds harsh, but it’s the truth.

The reality check

Every year, universities across the country graduate hundreds of media students into a playing field that cannot absorb them all. Recently, we have seen major media stations lay off employees, with some on the verge of closing. Media is no longer the glamorous profession it once was. With the rise of social media and digital migration, media houses are no longer hiring as they did 15 years ago. Newspapers have shrunk, and the number of correspondents has declined.

Camera crews have been replaced by smartphones operated by solo reporters. The world is changing, so change with it. Your journey doesn’t begin in fourth year; it starts now.

Build your portfolio

Some of you were placed into media courses by the university placement program. You are not here by mistake. Many celebrated media personalities didn’t study journalism, they hold degrees in completely different fields. As you interact, you will discover that most of the faces you see on TV or voices you hear on radio never stepped into a media class. How did they get there? Talent.

As you enjoy your freedom, use the time wisely. Join a Journalism or Media Club and engage with people who share your passion. These clubs offer training and opportunities beyond the classroom, giving you a chance to practice.

Through clubs, you can start creating content and publishing work that kickstarts your career. Media clubs help you apply what you learn in class and sharpen your skills for the job market.

If you are not a fan of crowds, why not go solo? Start a blog and write about topics you are passionate about. Or launch a YouTube channel and dive into content creation. Take photos and publish them. Volunteer at your university’s radio or TV station. You could even start a podcast.

All these steps require only one investment: time. With just a smartphone, you are good to go. Be curious. Editing and production software is now free and accessible, you have no excuse.

At the end of your four years, you will not only have earned good grades but also gained experience that builds your portfolio and prepares you for employment.

Above all, have fun.

You are in the world of media and communication. Dress to impress, attend social events, and stay curious. You are in a unique profession, so embrace the connections and stay updated on events around you.

Welcome to the Fourth Estate!