My name is Harriet and I have been interning at Branagh PR this summer.

I have recently been selected as the News Editor of my student-run university newspaper at Royal Holloway University of London, called The Founder. I actually applied to write for them not long before I applied to be the editor, writing on the topics of Fukushima and other relevant topics at the time. 

The application process required my CV and a cover letter. Instead of writing a generic cover letter, I wanted to do something different. I felt that it was much more pertinent and in keeping with the times to record a video-style cover letter. Loom, a free online software helped me do this, with my face in a small circle whilst flicking through my various experiences and talking through them. 

The ideas I pitched in my ‘cover letter’ ranged from acknowledging the welcome challenge this role will bring alongside my university work (including dissertation!), enabling me to gain skills in multi-tasking and managing a full-on workload. 

As the News Editor, I am hoping to bring a fresh approach, such as including more articles and stories that relate to the issues of young people and the target audience of university students.

The importance of keeping the public informed will definitely not be overlooked, but I hope to open up more discussion on campus around current issues affecting my fellow students, keeping their minds busy and informed. I am also keen on releasing more content that may inspire students into searching for career options, as the possibilities are endless. 

I have always loved writing. From a young age, I wrote stories upon stories. English (and later English Literature) was my favourite subject throughout school and sixth form, it is something I excelled in as well as enjoyed the most.

It wasn’t until my work experience in year 10 and year 12 at a local newspaper that I developed a love for journalism. I was lucky enough to have many articles featured in the newspaper of the weeks I spent there. It certainly was great and a confidence boost to see my name in print!

This love for journalism has now translated into writing for my local newspaper, as well as beginning to start a blog about my gap year travels, and now embarking on my new role as the News Editor at university.

Now, working with Tim at Branagh PR, my eyes have been opened to more possibilities in the industry, in the shape of Public Relations and Communications, where I have had the opportunity to ghost write articles and blogs and do some social media research and content.

After university, I intend to apply for the BBC’s journalism apprenticeship scheme, which would enable me to get a flavour for lots of different departments, as well as shadowing and learning from the best. If this avenue doesn’t come to fruition, I am considering doing a masters in journalism, possibly in an overseas location, which will also help fuel my passion for travel.