Falling from grace

Do you still dream of your perfect job, while you slave away in the one that you feel is eroding your braincells day by day? Well, welcome to my life. I’m only 26, and still I feel like I’m missing my opportunity at ever being taken seriously in my ‘profession’ of journalism.

My love and passion for journalism started when I was just ten, and my Grade 5 teacher Mr Kelly allowed the class to enter a competition to create a newspaper. We were the youngest entrants, and it was tough (as tough as it can be for a ten-year-old!), but it was those early days of deadlines and pressure that made me realise, this was the career for me. My desires were nurtured through high school with my second mentor, Mr Horner. He made me believe that I had the intelligence and writing ability to be and do whatever I want.

I got a job before I finished university in a somewhat bizarre situation. The station manager heard my voice on the phone and instantly offered me a job, on the other side of the country. The job was just as odd as the offer, but nevertheless, got me involved in my dream career and out of my regular existence.

And not much could disappoint. A room full of cadets, no guidance, and strange techniques, it didn’t matter. I was in parliament, reading the news (live!) and forging my credibility. 18 months into my career and I realised I needed to finish my degree, so back to university I went (after a years hiatus) and got back on the radio and a fresh passion for the news.

But again, the degree was done, and my feet were itchy. It was time to get out amongst the world and find out more about all those things I report about and get to know them face-to-face. So travelling I went. I saw ancient temples, lived in some of the poorest communities I’ve ever seen. Went to live sex shows (purely for research!) and drank in some amazing bars and ate fried spiders in Cambodia! My knowledge of history was tested and so too was my desire for a warm shower and a comfortable bed, but it was all about increasing my worldly knowledge.

Now I’m back to square one and the pressure of finding, again, the dream job, is nibbling at my heels. I’m constantly reminded by my family that I am too talented to not get back into journalism, but trust me, it’s not from lack of trying!

So here it is, my blog. My aim to get back on the horse and show them what I’ve got. And I hope that anyone who appreciates my work or would like to tell me where I’m going wrong, I’m open for all your critique. So let the floodgates open and my latest chapter begin. Bring it on!