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Currently studying toward a Postgraduate Diploma in Journalism, Emma is thrilled to combine her passion for politics and storytelling as a working journalist.

“I’ve always loved writing and storytelling. I’m a big believer in the power of storytelling and wanted to contribute to creating important stories through journalism,” she says.

The Youth Press Gallery offers aspiring reporters the chance to gain firsthand experience covering proceedings at the New Zealand Youth Parliament. With a background in politics from her undergraduate studies, Emma says the experience is the perfect blend of her interests.

“This is such an epic way to combine my interests in journalism and politics. I’m super excited,” she adds.

As a distance student, Emma says Massey’s flexible learning options were a major drawcard.

“I’m super grateful for the flexibility it has offered. It can be hard to juggle university and other commitments, but my lecturers and classmates are so supportive. It really feels like we’re all in it together.”

Despite studying remotely, Emma has been actively reporting on local stories, from community events to council policies, and producing radio segments for the Massey journalism programme’s weekly news programme The Rundown on Wellington Access Radio.

“It’s been a steep learning curve, but I’ve loved the challenge. Interviewing people and producing audio stories has been really cool. I'm a big audio lover.”

Reflecting on how Massey has prepared her for this new opportunity, Emma credits the hands-on nature of the course and the guidance of her lecturers.

“Reporting is a skill that needs to be honed, and I truly wouldn’t have taken this opportunity had I not been taught the basics by my amazing lecturers.”

Her advice for anyone considering studying journalism by distance?

“Do it! Take every opportunity — you don’t get better unless you try. Be prepared to motivate yourself and do the scary interviews. It doesn’t need to be perfect. Lean on your lecturers and fellow students. You got this!”

Emma is a student in Dr Teresa Heinz Housel’s course Journalism and Society. The course focuses on reporting on local and national government, and court reporting.

Dr Housel says Emma will be a great representative for the Massey journalism programme in the Youth Press Gallery.

“Emma has a strong interest in politics and local and national government. She has taken initiative to build her experience in news reporting in these areas.”