So you wanna be a Journalist?

Fancy yourself as Lois Lane? Want to be a crack newshound hunting down the latest scoop or scandal?

Meet Keri Welham, senior features writer at The Press in Christchurch – New Zealand’s second biggest newspaper.

She speaks to GG about what being a journalist is all about…

Why did you decide you wanted to be a journalist?
I was looking for a job with variety. I also needed to find a job where personality was appreciated because I wasn't a superbrain.

Was there any other job you ever seriously considered?
I had chosen all of my school subjects towards studying law but I got into journalism straight from school.

What study and qualifications did you have to get to become a journalist?
I passed bursary, then did a one-year polytechnic course.

What other skills do you need to be a journalist?
You need to be able to approach people walking down the street and strike up a conversation with them. You also need to be able to understand quite complicated issues at short notice. You need to be outgoing and able to talk to people from all walks of life. You probably need to enjoy writing too.

What is the best thing about the job?
Variety - it's a different story every day and you're always learning
something new about the world.

What is the hardest thing about the job?
Getting people to talk to you when they don't want to.

What hours do you work?
9.30am - 6.30pm Monday to Friday

Do you find you have the time to do other things you enjoy? Is it hard to get a good work/life balance?
The news happens at varying times so sometimes you have to work at night, or earlier in the morning, or on weekends. It is probably not the job for someone who only wants to work set hours.

What advice would you have for girls out there who might be thinking of becoming a journalist?
Read lots of books, ask lots of questions and spend some time at your local newspaper to make sure it's what you really want to do.

Tips for Your Hair
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