Journalism graduate Irene Cafagna landed a high profile job opportunity after graduating and credits the experience she received at London Met with helping her achieve her "dream role."
Date: 27 November 2017
Journalism BA graduate Irene Cafagna graduated from London Met in 2012. She now works in a communications role for the European Parliament in Brussels.
“Studying in the UK was my dream and it came true at London Met where I improved myself both as a student and as a person,” said Irene.
“I had one of the best times of my life while I was studying at London Metropolitan University. I met many new friends, some of which I am still in touch with, and enjoyed my years as a student to the fullest.
After graduating, Irene decided to apply for the European Parliament’s Schuman Traineeship, and was accepted. Her role includes writing and editing articles for the Italian edition of the European Parliament website and translating infographics from English to Italian.
“I was looking for new opportunities abroad and searched for journalism options on the internet. That is how I found out about the Schuman Traineeship at the European Parliament, with the specific option for journalism graduates.
“In the selection process, I was also asked to provide some of my articles published on officially registered journalistic publications so I can say that previous work experience in publishing was definitely crucial in order to be accepted.
“My favourite aspect of my current role is the multicultural and active environment I work in. There is never a day of boredom in the European Parliament and the people you work and interact with are from all over Europe, which makes it even more exiting.
“You keep challenging yourself every day and you have opportunities to meet important people and influencers you would have never thought possible.”
Irene likes the fact that London Met’s Journalism lecturers are experienced professionals, with many of them having worked for the BBC: “The best aspect of my course was that all teachers have had stunning careers and experiences in the field.
“They were always very helpful giving essential and useful suggestions and trying to make us focus on the very practical aspects of working as a journalist. This is what you need most when approaching the real job market after graduation.”
During her time at London Met, Irene was a news writer for the BA Journalism student news website, the Holloway Express.
London Met’s Journalism BA (Hons) course offers the opportunity to cover breaking news in the University’s newsroom, participate in exciting news days, develop a range of writing skills for different media outlets, and learn video, audio and mobile techniques for this rapidly changing industry.
The British Academy has, today, published a report pinpointing the value that an Arts, Humanity or Social Sciences (AHSS) degree can offer you. Using a wide range of examples of graduates from around the globe, the report sets out the value that an AHSS degree can bring you.
The full report can be read on the British Academy website. Join the conversation on social media using the hashtag #celebrateskills.
