My Experience at The Times Summer Academy

In the summer of 2023, I had the pleasure of attending the inaugural Times Summer Academy hosted by News Associates. After completing an application process consisting of three questions and a short waiting time, I was notified that I would be making the trip down to London to attend a week full of journalistic experience and insight.

The 2023 attendees

From gaining a deeper understanding of journalism ethics, freedom of information requests, to story sourcing and selection, this week covered everything an aspiring journalist may want to know. Not forgetting to mention the talks from The Times Editor-in-Chief Tony Gallagher and some of the other senior journalists working currently at The Times, giving invaluable advice I will certainly be taking into my job applications. All of this was topped off by a view of London's city skyline from the height of the boardroom.

It was lovely to make some connections with aspiring journalists, all from different backgrounds and with some unique perspectives to bring to the table. The experience was not all work and no play; the people here were truly lovely.

For anyone wanting to get a foot in the door regarding what a career in journalism may look like and how to get started, I would highly recommend applying for this experience in the years to come.