Interns with drive, energy and passion are some of the ways newsroom editors talk about UBC Journalism students who complete practicum placements as part of their Masters of Journalism program.
Students must spend at least 12 weeks completing full-time practicums in regional, national and international media outlets in order to graduate.
“We work with legacy media companies, startups, independent producers, public affairs teams and a variety of NGOs and public affairs offices. Whatever skills and experiences our students want to reach for, we try to support,” said senior instructor Kathryn Gretsinger who has been coordinating students’ internship placements since 2010.
“The employers are incredibly thoughtful, attentive, conscientious and aware of what our students need,” she said.
Students reflect on their experiences across Canada and around the world through internship spotlights posted on the School’s social media channels.
Read what the editors have to say
Alexandra Pope, digital editor of Canadian Geographic
We are consistently impressed by the talent and drive of our UBC Journalism interns. They exhibit a passion for people and planet that makes them an energizing presence in the newsroom.
Darcy Matheson, editor of the Daily Hive Vancouver
UBC SOJ students have been a huge asset to our newsroom, bringing with them unique experiences, story ideas and perspectives. We have hired several after their internships are complete — and several remain contributors to Daily Hive.
Charlie Smith, editor of the Georgia Straight
We learn as much from the students as they learn from us. Their curiosity and work ethic has impressed me. They’re able to synthesize disparate pieces of information in ways that I never could at their age.
Melanie de Klerk, assignment editor for Global National News
Working with UBC interns over the years has been an honour. As a graduate of the program it’s been a privilege to be a part of the intern experience on the other side and to watch such capable and engaged students grow in a work environment. UBC students are always a great addition to our newsroom.
Robyn Smith, editor in chief of The Tyee
As a former intern myself, I understand how essential the internship experience is for a journalist’s learning. But in my role as editor of The Tyee, I see how essential the intern experience is for employers, too. Interns bring energy, diverse ideas, and a whole new perspective on our craft, which affects the entire newsroom in a positive way. They’re just starting to fall in love with the job, which is a strong reminder of why we do what we do.
Ashley Joannou, editor at Yukon News
UBC students are a critical component at the newspaper, particularly in the summer when we are often short staffed. UBC students are able to take on complex stories that could have been assigned to more experienced journalists. In 2018, it was a UBC student who was responsible for the most-read story of the year.
