BCFE Journalism student shares life-changing Erasmus experience
Journalism and Content Creation student Rory McGinn relished every second of his trip to Portugal last summer to work for The Portugal News as part of the Erasmus+ program in BCFE.
“This experience gave me a unique cultural immersion in the dynamic Portuguese atmosphere, in addition to expanding my journalistic horizons. I was constantly learning and growing as I made my way through the cobblestone streets and into the heart of Portuguese journalism.
I wrote for their weekly newspaper and contributed to their website’s Irish section when I was there. This gave me a varied experience that let me talk about a variety of subjects, from local politics to cultural events. Every task forced me to improve as a writer and adjust to the unique voice and style of the paper.
Outside the busy and vibrant office, I took advantage of the chance to spend my free time travelling across the beautiful Algarve. I was fortunate to be able to rent a road bike to explore the area in my free time and a way to travel to and from the office in Lagoa.
Having a bike changed my experience by adding to the three weeks as I got to see places in the Algarve that I would’ve never been able to see and will be something I would recommend doing if you’re heading over to TPN.
In light of my experience, I have put together some priceless advice for future students starting a similar journey:
- Embrace Cultural Immersion: Acquire a basic understanding of Portuguese terms and customs to better integrate yourself with the community. Talking to the locals will improve your experience and help you make lasting relationships.
- Flexibility Is Essential: Be ready to adjust to different work settings and dynamics. Navigating the possibilities and difficulties that present themselves throughout your placement requires flexibility.
- Seize Every Chance: Show initiative and look for chances to grow your network and skill set. Initiating proactive participation, such as suggesting story ideas or offering assistance with projects, can enhance your overall experience.
- Discover Your Surrounds: Make the most of your free time by discovering Portugal’s varied landscapes and cultural sites. Seize every chance for exploration, whether it’s going on a cycle through vibrant forests or trying the local food.
All things considered, my work placement in Portugal was a life-changing opportunity that gave me a perspective of journalism that you cannot emulate in education.
I was so lucky then towards the end of my placement to be offered a part time job as a remote journalist where I now write for their sports section on the newspaper, Irish section and also collaborate with the team to create compelling news stories about on trend topics in the region.
This is an opportunity than I can not recommend enough to any media student that wants a completely unique but also incredible experience that will not just grow your professional life but your personal growth and independence.”
