Maggie Doyle

Maggie Doyle photo

Broadcast Journalist | BBC Radio Kent

Journalism Studies MA- 2006

The course I was on only had 22 students on it and that for me was the best thing. We formed a close group and most of our lectures were informal because we would end up chatting to our tutors rather than sitting just taking notes; personally, I found that a much better way of learning!

What are you doing now?

I am the Breakfast Show Presenter at BBC Radio Kent

 

What did you find most valuable about your course at Westminster? How did the skills you learnt during your degree help you to shape your career?

The practical skills in interviewing, recording and editing were invaluable tools to me when I started to work in radio. The techniques passed on from course tutors in interviewing skills and interpreting press releases were very helpful.

 

What was the best thing about being a student in London?

I loved the buzz of the big city (I had moved from Cardiff and previous to that a small town in Ireland). The wealth of opportunity in London kept the dream of working as a Broadcast Journalist alive!

 

What extra-curricular activities did you participate in that enhanced your time at the University?

I played mixed (yes, mixed!) five-a-side football on a Friday night in the sports hall. As I lived on campus it was handy for me, and heading to the Union after for a refreshing beverage was always a good (cheap) way to start a weekend in London!

 

What advice would you give to someone thinking of pursuing a similar career?

Do it. Don’t worry about job opportunities, be prepared to put yourself out there and make sacrifices! I worked all sorts of shifts, from overnights to split shifts to early starts after a late shift the night before. Take all the work you are offered.

 

Why would you recommend Westminster as a place to study?

The course I was on only had 22 students on it and that for me was the best thing. We formed a close group and most of our lectures were informal because we would end up chatting to our tutors rather than sitting just taking notes; personally, I found that a much better way of learning. It was this communicative form that I found so helpful when approaching individual tutors for help or advice. The facilities were great; I learned how to edit audio using the recording studios and practice out loud in a studio (my favourite bit!)