The BBC, Al Jazeera and The Guardian.
These are just three of the major London-based newsrooms that 23 Monash students saw inside over the winter break, as part of the undergraduate elective unit ATS3795 Global Correspondent.
Led by Associate Professor Fay Anderson and Senior Lecturer Stephanie Brookes, the tour encompassed newsrooms as well as a range of cultural sites — offering a unique angle on British society and how the media and culture impact the lives of Britons, particularly those living in London.
Here, some of the Monash students reflect on the highlight of their 10 days in the British capital.
A look in at Lord's: Rahul Deepak Kumar
One of my favourite moments was the opportunity to visit Lord's Cricket Ground. As a cricket tragic, I was constantly engaged by the tour of one of the most iconic global sporting venues. However, I most enjoyed the visit to the ground’s media centre and the talk with Marylebone Cricket Club Head of Communications Thomas Rowland. His insights into the importance of storytelling in sport and the role of sport in British society were fascinating. Overall, this experience was invaluable and inspired me to continue engaging with the sports media sector.
Insights into ABC foreign correspondence: Lizzy Bingham
A real highlight to me, as someone interested in political reporting, was getting the privilege to visit the ABC’s foreign correspondents in London. The incredible journalists we got to meet were so generous with their time and knowledge, and it was fantastic to get their insights into the industry and foreign correspondence. It was eye-opening to learn about the responsibilities and challenges of reporting from foreign countries, and fun to hear the travel stories of the journalists. My time at the newsroom really inspired me for my future in reporting and made me excited for all the new experiences the job can bring.
Delivering the news at Channel 4: Yasmin Bouzas
As a lover of public speaking and news reporting, my most memorable visit during my time in London was Channel 4. I have always admired the role of major news channels in breaking stories to the public. It was fascinating to see the several aspects that go into producing the news, from visiting the production rooms and observing the news desks. What stood out to me most was how a channel brings together so many elements of multimedia, notably writing, scripting, reporting, technical work, and behind-the-scenes production which all work seamlessly to deliver news to audiences.
Summer nights in London: Tsambika Kozirakis
After our jam-packed days, we all still found time to make some wholesome memories with our new friends on the trip. A definite highlight for me was on one of the first nights of the trip. It was sunny and warm and a group of us met on Primrose Hill to watch the sunset over the skyline of London, this beautiful city that we would be calling home for the next ten days. It was perfect, a core memory some may even call it. We were all still getting to know one another but I can speak for many when I say, that night was the beginning of many friendships. This then set the scene for the most memorable study tour to date.
Lured to the West End for "Lion King": Olivia Knipe
For a last-minute Saturday activity, I had booked tickets to the very nostalgic "The Lion King" to watch in the West End. Surrounded by families, I felt all of the emotions alongside the 7-year-old sitting beside me. I was crying during the opening scene, while she got scared seeing Scar. In a very sentimental afternoon, I walked home down the streets of London, talking it all in, singing in my head. The West End of London showcases a new show at every corner, creating a high cultural influence of theatre and performance in the city hub, drawing in locals and tourists worldwide.
A live broadcast at Bloomberg: Claire Maxwell
Visiting Bloomberg's London headquarters was a standout moment for me as an aspiring financial reporter. We had the invaluable opportunity to learn about the famous Bloomberg Terminal and gain insight into the technical operations behind Bloomberg News. It was eye-opening to see how quickly the news cycle shifts and how essential adaptability is in a constantly evolving political landscape. We spoke with Bloomberg reporters who generously shared their expertise, giving us a deeper understanding of the profession. Touring the impressive newsroom, with its breathtaking views, and witnessing a live broadcast (even appearing briefly in the background!) made the experience even more memorable.
ATS3795 Global Correspondent runs every two years and offers fascinating insights into how some of the world's best-known news media outlets operate and report on events big and small.