From a journalism student at Coventry University to a career in digital content and PR
After graduating with a Journalism BA (Hons) degree in 2024, Phoebe began her career in journalism before moving into her current role as a Digital Content and PR Officer at Coventry City Council.
“I was proud that my hard work paid off, and my family were too,” she says, reflecting on securing her first full-time role after graduating.
Why study journalism at university?
Phoebe chose journalism because of her passion for storytelling and working with people. At university, that interest turned into something more focused. Through practical modules, real-world learning and work experience opportunities at Coventry University and other organisations, she began to build both her confidence and her direction.
What skills can you gain from a journalism degree?
One of the biggest advantages of Phoebe’s time at university was the mix of practical and transferable skills she developed.
“Learning how to edit and write for different platforms has definitely been an important skill for me,” she says.
She still uses tools like Adobe Premiere Pro today, alongside the writing and communication skills she built during her course. But it wasn’t just technical ability. Coventry University also helped her grow in confidence and awareness.
“I gained the confidence to speak to people I wouldn’t usually speak to,” she says, recalling experiences like contacting press offices and arranging interviews.
Gaining work experience during university
Phoebe made the most of opportunities beyond the classroom, gaining experience with organisations such as BBC CWR and ITN, as well as working as a Radio Presenter for Coventry University’s Students‘ Union. These experiences helped her build confidence and understand how the industry works before graduating.
Phoebe’s first job after university: working in broadcast journalism
After graduating, Phoebe secured a role as a Production Journalist with ITV News Central.
Her role involved working on live stories, going out on location, interviewing members of the public, editing footage and helping coordinate content for broadcast.
It was a fast-paced environment that built directly on her university experience.
How journalism skills can transfer into a career in communications
After a year in journalism, Phoebe moved into a communications role with Coventry City Council.
“I didn’t know what to expect in communications,” she says, “but I’ve realised how transferable journalism skills are.”
She now uses those same skills, such as filming, editing and writing, to create content for different audiences across the city. One of her proudest moments so far has been seeing her work connect with people.
“Some of my social media content has gone viral, with thousands of views, hundreds of likes and comments.”
How Coventry University prepares you for the workplace
Phoebe’s experience shows how Coventry University can prepare you for life after graduation.
From video editing to writing and communication, the skills she developed on her course and beyond have been essential in both journalism and communications roles.
Coventry University also helped her develop a broader perspective on the world.
“It made me more aware of the world around me and enabled me to give underrepresented people a voice,” she says. “That’s valuable both in the newsroom and now with the council, as we’re representing a multicultural city.”
Advice for students thinking about careers after university
Phoebe encourages students to make the most of every opportunity while studying.
“Get stuck into different work experience placements and see what you enjoy.”
She also highlights the importance of listening to lecturers and staying open to learning.
“Ask questions and soak everything in.”
Life after university: building confidence and your future career
Phoebe’s journey shows that life after university is about more than just your first job. It’s about building confidence, developing skills and finding your path.
From the newsroom to communications, she has continued to grow and adapt using what she learned at Coventry University to shape her career.
“Confidence is key,” she says. “Be confident in yourself because you know you are capable.”
Her story is a reminder that with the right experience, support and mindset, you can step into the world of work feeling ready to make an impact.
