Ciaran Kelly graduated from DBS with a Diploma in Sports Journalism. He told us why he chose the course, how he found it and what it’s like working in his chosen field.
Why did you choose this course?
I chose the course because I've always had an interest in sports and writing. It was a course that always caught my attention but one that I always put on the back burner. I wanted to educate myself on the day to day duties that working as a sports journalist entails. The structure of the course allowed me to fulfill this without having a major impact on work.
How has the course benefited you in your profession?
I now have a better understanding of the job and realise there's more to the job than meets the eye. As a journalist you face a lot of stress from editors in terms of deadlines and fines, it's a 24/7 job in terms of trying to get 'that story' before your peers, a vocation really. I'm now more educated on how you write an article, and what English to use e.g. try not to use repetitive words, try to keep the reader engaged. I try to incorporate stats and facts into my writing. It has benefited me greatly, I have had six articles published with the county paper (Meath Chronicle) and feel I'm on the road to a potential new career if I stay motivated.
Are you currently working in this or a related area?
Since the course has finished I reached out to the Meath Chronicle and they have been brilliant to me. The sports editor Conall Collier has been very accommodating in terms of trying to get me experience and getting my pieces published. He has brought me to games to show me the ropes and for me to learn from the skills he has picked up throughout the years.
Did you enjoy the course?
I loved every minute of the course. To be in a class with a group of people who have that same love and interest for something was great. The tutor Mark McCadden was excellent, he educated us all and was very accommodating, while being 'one of the lads' at the same time. There was never a dull moment, great interaction between everyone and the class flew.
What did you feel was the best thing about studying in DBS?
The professionalism of the lecturers and staff. Always looking to help out and make you feel welcome, everyone was very accommodating. There is a great vibrancy in the college and it's in the heart of the city which is an added bonus.
For information on the Diploma in Sports and Journalism course at DBS see here.