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Phil Jones - Media Academic

Phil Jones: How to Make it in the World of Media

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With over 30 year of experience in broadcasting and journalism, UA92 Media Academic Phil Jones has covered major events such as the Olympics, World Cup and the Commonwealth Games. He’s shared his thoughts on making it in the media industry, and how UA92 prepares students for the working world, kickstarting their career. 

“In our careers, we all work from individual palettes when it comes to questioning. There are added layers of complexity. Answers may need a little more procuring. Different strokes for different folks.

As a broadcaster and journalist of more than 30 years, perhaps known best for questioning the great and the good in spells at CNN and the BBC, I am often asked to name the one biggest celebrity I have ever interviewed. That usually involves me coming up with a list and letting the questioner decide because I’m just never quite sure who deserves top billing. I maybe start with President Bill Clinton or Prince Harry, then throw in – in no particular order – Pele, Usain Bolt, Sir Terry Wogan, Roger Federer and Dame Julie Walters. It is name dropping of the most shameless order. But then, I was asked the question in the first place. The next most popular question: how do I make it in media? Simple enough once again, but in need of greater
contemplation and far more delicate strokes to provide a portrait of a pathway.

Firstly, what’s your unique selling point? What makes you stand out from the crowd? Trust me, the media market is crowded. Be proactive. Be bold. Get noticed to get ahead. Secondly, what range of skills do you bring? This is where UA92 flies to the fore. Journalistic writing or design, filming or editing, photography or social media, we have you covered – always with an eye on industry, always mindful of developing your character to thrive beyond the learning. Starting out, local inspiration was lacking for this Salford lad. No MediaCity on the doorstep in those days… nor an inviting, inventive hub like UA92. I had to paint the first strokes of my media career with minimal encouragement. My intent in joining UA92 was to ensure that never had to be the case for our media and journalism creatives.”

The World of Media at UA92

“Every day we produce and consume messages through different forms of media. These messages have the power to influence how we think, shape our relationships with others, and make sense of everyday events and experiences.

Studying at UA92, you will learn about the production, consumption and effects of contemporary media and master current digital technologies in order to create engaging media content.

Whether you choose to study Sports Journalism, Sports Media and Communications or Digital Content Production, you’ll be hands-on from the start. With access to a wide-range of industry-standard technologies including a professional media studio, audio-visual equipment and post-production facilities, you will learn about the latest developments, trends and debates in this sector to prepare for a career in the creative industries.

As well as lots of creative and practical opportunities, you’ll also develop your critical understanding of key theoretical concepts within the context of contemporary media industries and digital communications; such as narrative structures, legal and ethical constraints and research techniques.

What’s more, you’ll begin to open doors to the real-world of work. You’ll have exclusive access to guest lectures and masterclasses conducted by industry professionals, opportunities to work on live briefs and the chance to interview some big names. All whilst continually exploring your future career plan with support from your academic tutors.

Joining us might just be your first stroke of genius on your own career blank canvas.”

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