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Dear Samson

Thanks for your letter, which I found very interesting and
entertaining. I particularly enjoyed your fictional piece about Homer
Simpson becoming President of the United States. Not too far from the
truth, some might say.

Your ambition to become a journalist is a popular one, but not all
manage to stay the course.

The requirements of being a journalist start with a good use of the
English language, i.e producing copy which is easy to read and
informative rather than grammatical; good ability to spell correctly;
an interest in and a good knowledge of current affairs; and an ability
to be friendly and persuasive with people. Later in the educational
process training will include an ability to take shorthand notes at a
speed of at least 1000 words per minute, a good knowledge of the law,
and a good knowledge of how local and national government works.

All qualified journalists have good A-level results and most have a
university degree (not necessarily in journalism or media studies-
traditional degrees are just as good). After this they must sit a
post-graduate qualification called the National Certificate
Examination, administered by the National Council for the Training of
Journalists.

All working journalists must have integrity and a passion for
discovering the truth.

Our newspaper group has an active work experience programme, mainly
for sixth form students, undergraduates and graduates. At 13 I think
you are still too young to take part in a formal work experience
programme with us.

However, if you are determined to make a name for yourself in the
media, your local newspaper is often the best starting point.

Would you be interested in writing a regular column for us, perhaps
based on a teenager’s perspective of the world? It would require
dedication to sit down and write a piece for us, of the same length
each time, and to meet our deadlines.

Please let me know if you are interested and I will make the necessary
arrangements with you. You can contact me by return of post or by
email: gerrysammon@gmwn.co.uk

Best wishes,

Gerry Sammon
Editor
North and East Manchester Advertiser

Hi Samson

Glad to hear from you again
I think my idea for you was along the lines of you writing for us a young
person’s perspective of local and national events. If you’re keen on
national and local current affairs I’m sure that would be a really
interesting series if you can manage it.
For instance, from your perspective, a young person’s view of plans to
increase the TV licence fee above inflation; England’s chances in the World
Cup; the use of anti-social behaviour orders; the education system; the NHS;
the police, etc.
These are just some ideas you could pick up on, but you don’t have to use
these ideas. Think of something yourself by all means.
If you think you’re able to have a go, write about 300-500 words and email
it to me. If it’s ok I’ll need a photo of you (I can send a photographer to
you) and I’ll make arrangements to pay you a small fee too.
A word of advice, let your style become easy and flowing, not too academic.
Remember, you’ll be writing for a wide audience of all abilities.
Good luck, and I look forward to seeing your contribution.

Gerry Sammon
Editor
North and East Manchester Advertiser