Congratulations to UQ Journalism student Chloe Bell, who has been named as a finalist for the prestigious Student Journalist of the Year award at the Kennedy Awards.
Known as the Australian media's night of nights, the Kennedys are celebrated for their inclusiveness, independence, and commitment to nurturing the next generation of the nation's top journalists. UQ lecturer Dr Caroline Graham has also been recognised, earning a finalist spot for Indigenous Affairs Reporting with her impactful work, NT Schools in Crisis.
We wish Chloe and Dr Graham the best of luck at the awards to be held Friday 16 August 2024.
In recognition of these outstanding achievements, we spoke with Chloe about her experiences studying journalism at UQ and her aspirations for the future.
What made you want to study journalism at UQ, and how have you found your studies?
I have always loved writing and storytelling and am a pretty curious person. I actually moved up from Victoria following Year 12 both for the sunny climate and the reputation of UQ's Journalism Program.
Access to the Media and Production Support team (MaPS), hiring of industry standard equipment, leading experts for tutors and lectuters, and networking through the JACs society have been exceptional opportunities through my studies thus far.
I have really benefitted from the way the UQ program throws students straight in the deep end - researching, writing and interviewing for self-directed stories from the very first semester.
Could you share more about the stories you submitted that led to being named a finalist?
I was required to submit a portfolio of three pieces of work I have produced as part of my course in the last 18 months . I submitted two written pieces - one for the first year Investigative Journalism subject titled 'People Before Planes' which explored the human impact of the redesigning of airspace across Brisbane back in 2020; and one for a third year subject I took last semester, Data Journalism, which used wastewater data on drug use across Australia to investigate the disparities between regional and metro drug use. The third was for second year Broadcast Journalism, where I interviewed, filmed and edited a five minute video documentary on a Brisbane Doctor who has devoted his working life to provide medical care to the homeless and imprisoned, free of charge.
What are your career aspirations moving forward?
I am still trying to work out my niche as I have lots of diverse interests and passions in different areas, but I think that is the beauty of journalism. It changes quite regularly depending on the subjects I take each semester. At the moment, I am keen to get into political or court reporting. I'm excited to complete some more internships to get a bit more of a feel for different mediums - whether that be TV, radio or digital/written platforms.
What advice would you give to future students interested in studying journalism?
I would say make the most of your tutors and lecturers! At UQ you're so lucky to have so many industry professionals with years of experience or still practicing journalism who will be more than happy to be a reference on a resume, assist with industry contacts, read over a story or give advice. Theory is great but never underestimate the value in practical experience. The sooner you can start interning, writing and wrapping your head around cameras, mics and equipment - the better!
