As my second semester drew to a close, I found myself at a crossroad, filled with anxiety about my upcoming internship.
It wasn’t just about securing a spot, it was about finding a place that offered genuine mentoring, sincere coaching, and frequent training to truly prepare me for my media career.
In my search for clarity, I recalled the first training I attended as a Post Graduate Print Journalism student in Nigeria Institute of Journalism (NIJ), thanks to my Lecturer who facilitated a course in Fact-checking and Data-driven Journalism and secured a slot for me to attend the event.
That experience opened my eyes to the importance of networking and learning from industry professionals. Yet, as I stood uncertain about my path, I realized how broad Journalism is, and I needed more than just an experience in a Magazine or Newspaper firm.
I craved a comprehensive understanding of various journalism disciplines- from newspaper and magazine production to Broadcasting, Fact-checking, review and Book publishing.
After much contemplation, I reached out to the Executive Director of Media Career Development Network, whose passion for mentoring budding journalists resonated with me.
The decision transformed my journey!
In my first week, I attended a media training hosted by the Wole Soyinka Center for Investigative Journalism, and my report was published!
We had various insightful training on Digital security and learnt about book reviews the second week at #MCDN
In fact I got a byline on an affiliated platform, giving me a chance to share my voice as a book reviewer.
Check out the Inspiring book I reviewed 👇
https://journalistsforchrist.org/index.php/2024/08/31/finding-your-path-in-journalism/
What’s incredible is that every intern is being encouraged to learn and grow at their own pace while connecting us with seasoned practitioners on the field.
No regimented process or fast rule put in place, it’s just you knowing what your goals are, and the team members will help you align your passion.
I was so amazed that my wish to visit a printing press for a short period in order to have an idea of how magazine publication looks, was peacefully granted.
I was given some free days to learn in a separate firm and resume back when I’m done.
Honestly, I almost broke down, juggling between Ayobo, Berger and Ikeja, because I was trying to learn during internship. 🥰
Despite the stress, I see the strings of passion pulling me over, saying- “You can still stretch and fetch, as you explore more in this field!”
I’m still learning and gaining hands-on experience during this period of internship with the Editor-in-chief of #LightRay Media, Lady Ejiro Umukoro as my Virtual Internship Coach, Executive Director of Media Career Development Network, Mr Lekan Otufodunrin as my Physical Coach and the triune God as my Ultimate Coach in this career.
Joining the Editorial Board of the Christian Women Mirror of the DCLM alongside this journey, I’m sure the process can only get better.
Higher is calling and I need to keep learning, recalling what the Boss Lady said to me- “Shine your eyes as usual. Learn like a sponge! All the best”
Super grateful as internship in #MCDN has provided me and my fellow intern’s a suitable environment where we can align our skill and passion, boost self confidence, expand networks without competition while extending to us all, the right hand of fellowship so we can all stay on track in our media career goals.
Perhaps you’re still searching for a suitable location during media internship, you can reach out to #MCDN, and have a foretaste of an impactful transformational media journey that awaits you!
READ ALSO: Our interns are ‘learning and producing content’
