For the third year running, 10 final year Journalism and Sports Journalism students at LJMU have been paired with industry mentors as part of an exciting collaboration with the John Schofield Trust.
The scheme sees students given mentors already working in the industry to help guide and support them over a 12-month period before they graduate and take their first steps towards entering into the industry.
Among this year’s mentors are Miguel Delaney, The Independent’s chief football writer, Tara McDermott at BBC Current Affairs, and the Liverpool Post’s Abi Whistance.
The successful students were given the opportunity for a special Q and A with another mentor, Stephanie Oliver, the North of England editor at Sky News, during which she talked about the importance of resilience and kindness and compassion in her work.
Journalism senior lecturer, Polly Sharpe, said: “We are delighted to see the continuation of our partnership with the John Schofield Trust. We passionately believe the industry should be open to everyone, regardless of background.
“Working with the trust has allowed our students to benefit hugely from the support and guidance of their mentors as they navigate their first steps into becoming a journalist.”
Trust director, Howard Littler, added: “I always enjoy working with LJMU students who bring a particular passion and brilliance to their work.
“Individual mentoring can unlock opportunities that were not previously available, and give vital support and confidence to new journalists finding their feet in a tough sector.”