The Joan Donaldson CBC News Scholarship is awarded to aspiring journalists across Canada who exhibit both passion and potential within the journalism industry. Scholarship applications are submitted to select universities and colleges across Canada with undergraduate and graduate journalism programs, and each school can only select a few applicants to nominate. Once selected, applicants go through a more detailed application process with CBC, and this year, 12 aspiring journalists were selected from the applications.
It is with great excitement to announce that 2021 Contemporary Journalism graduate, Michelle McCann, was among the recipients! “I couldn't believe it when I found out I got the scholarship! I was really honoured and excited,” she says.
Michelle first came across the Joan Donaldson Scholarship during her last year in the program while researching potential internships to apply for. One of the main components of this scholarship that caught her eye was how expansive of an opportunity it offered. She explains, “I love that there are so many different paths you can take in journalism, but all of that choice is a little overwhelming. I really appreciate that with this scholarship, you get the opportunity to work in three very different areas of the CBC.”
Those three areas – digital, radio, and television – make up the 16-week program that scholarship recipients embark on. “I get to do investigative work at Marketplace, get a taste of radio with the Radio Syndication department, and, finally, I am going to Newfoundland to work with the local team,” Michelle says.
EXPERIENCE IN THE CONTEMPORARY JOURNALISM PROGRAM
As a recent graduate of the Contemporary journalism program, Michelle says one of the lessons she obtained that she continues to carry with her is the importance of remaining open to having your work critiqued, which she shares is an important part of improving as a journalist. “The program's instructors told us throughout the year to not take editing or feedback on our stories personally and they were right. I learnt a lot from their input on my work.”
In terms of how the program helps prepare students for this industry, Michelle explains, “The focus on giving you the experience and skills of a multimedia journalist has been really helpful. The program teaches you traditional reporting skills but also data journalism, video editing and photography. This made me more well-rounded as a journalist. And the fact that I knew how to sort and analyze data helped me find one of my best stories last summer when I interned for CBC Toronto's digital team.”
As for her favourite part about the program, she shares, “I really enjoyed the opportunities I had to speak with people from all walks of life for my stories. The instructors made you go out and find real sources - no interviewing friends or family! That was tough at times, especially during the lockdown in Toronto last winter, but it ultimately gave me so much experience, and I met some really interesting people.”
Her advice for those interested in a career in journalism? “Do your research before deciding to pursue a career in journalism. Being a journalist is rewarding, but it's also a stressful and demanding job. I think you need to be passionate about the field and you need a strong sense of why you want to be a journalist to succeed,” she says.
Congratulations, Michelle, on such an outstanding achievement! We wish you continued success as you begin this program and in all your future endeavours. To see the full list of scholarship recipients, including more details about Michelle and her experience in journalism, click here.
Article by: Alexandra Few
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