Futures Fund Case Study: Craig Connolly
Craig Connolly has landed his dream job after completing a placement at the BBC’s The One Show in Salford.
Thanks to the Futures Fund Professional Development Scholarship Craig was able to cover the travel costs to Salford and the accommodation expenses during his four-week placement.
After graduating from the University of Sunderland with a bachelor’s degree in Broadcast Journalism this summer, Craig was offered a job through the BBC Graduate Scheme.
He explained: “Having secured a job in the industry with the BBC at The One Show is a dream come true.”
During at his placement, Craig worked with the current affairs team researching stories, interviewing people and filming and editing packages together.
“This placement helped me to become a better journalist and perfect the skills I learned at the University,” he added.
“When I arrived the team was short staffed and I believe this worked to my advantage as I was thrown in at the deep end and instantly had pressure thrust upon me to produce current affairs film ideas.
“In my first week on the placement I was able to source and pitch two film ideas successfully to the BBC commissioning panel. To get to that stage I had to carry out the role of a broadcast journalist, calling potential contributors explaining what it was we wanted to do and getting them to agree to it.”
The 28-year-old, From Hebburn, South Tyneside said: “I must stress my gratitude to the Futures Fund committee for granting me this money as I now have a steady job in the industry.”