First-class graduate Lucy Roberts paved her way as a freelance journalist while studying a full-time degree
A University of Central Lancashire (UCLan) graduate secured multiple internships whilst studying for a degree and working as a freelance sports journalist.
Lucy Roberts, who this week graduated from UCLan with a First-class degree in sports journalism, successfully secured multiple internships during her studies, which has helped her kick-start a career as a freelance journalist.
Among the opportunities awarded to the 21-year-old was a one-week placement at St Helens Rugby League Club, a world-recognised Super League team.
‘’On my first day, I travelled to Newcastle’s St James’ Park for the Magic Weekend press day with the press officer and player Mark Percival, which was an amazing experience and one I’ll never forget.
“I also helped out at manager Kristian Woolf's press conference ahead of Saints' clash with rivals Wigan Warriors and interviewed Jack Welsby for Saints TV.”
"I always had an interest in sport, but I knew I was hopeless at playing it. So, I decided I wanted to write about it instead"
— New graduate Lucy Roberts
She said: “I always had an interest in sport, but I knew I was hopeless at playing it. So, I decided I wanted to write about it instead.”
The former Turton Sixth Form College student also gained another one-week internship as a reporter for Greatest Hits Radio York and North Yorkshire, which is part of Bauer Media. From this, she was offered a role with them as a freelance reporter.
After finishing her University exams, Lucy completed a two-week placement with Big Issue North, giving her valuable insight into writing for a weekly magazine.
“It was a placement I wanted ever since I started at UCLan,” she said. “I was so proud that I eventually managed to do it and enjoyed it even more than I thought I would.”
The sports-enthusiast has also written an article on Anthony Johnson, Chester FC manager, which was featured nationally in The Sun and The Mirror newspapers.
"I’d 100% recommend the sports journalism course – if you put the work in, you’ll definitely have a great time and reap the rewards"
— Freelance sports journalist Lucy Roberts
While studying full-time, she also worked as a writer for digital news hubs FemaleFirst and Tennis365.
During her degree, Lucy enjoyed the variety of the course: “Not only was I writing about sport, but I was talking about it on the radio, filming it and producing TV broadcasts about it. The support from my lecturers was amazing - they were always there to help and listen to me.
“I’d 100% recommend the sports journalism course – if you put the work in, you’ll definitely have a great time and reap the rewards.”
She added: “Being a freelancer can be scary because I don't know what the future holds, but it makes it exciting and gives me the chance to keep adding to my CV.”
Lucy has worked hard to gain experience and hone her writing skills and now works as a freelance sports journalist for Bauer Media, working for the likes of Rock FM, Hits Manchester and Radio City.
In addition, she will soon take up a different role managing the social media and website for Murraywood Construction.
Written by Humayra Patel
