Journalism Scholarship allows ‘freedom to follow the story’

Journalism student, Isabella Womack, was awarded the Journalism Progression Scholarship last year. Here she tells us about her experiences so far.

The Journalism Scholarship supports 3rd year students studying BA (Hons) Journalism at the University of Brighton with a grant of £5,000, generously donated by Janey Walker and Hamish Mykura. Izzy received the scholarship for the 2023-24 academic year to support her Critical Investigation project looking at the rise of voluntary celibacy among young women.

How did it feel to win the scholarship?

“I was absolutely thrilled and honoured when I found out I had won the scholarship, it was truly an amazing feeling.”

How has your experience been so far?

“I have used the funding for transportation to interviews, books and events related to my critical investigation.

“The best feeling is the freedom the scholarship gives me. There’s nothing holding my investigation back. I have a feeling of no limits and it honestly feels great.”

What difference is the scholarship making to you?

“Not only does the scholarship gives me more options and opportunities but we are living through a cost of living crisis and with the scholarship I feel like I am free to follow the story in its entirety. Whereas before I would have opted to conduct my interviews over Teams, now I can get more personal interviews by speaking to people in person.

“I have also been able to purchase books for my critical investigation. Historical context is particularly important with my investigation and having as many resources as possible was important for me. Winning the scholarship fortunately gave me these options.”

What advice would you give to students who are thinking of applying for funding?

“Firstly, I would say think about relating your critical investigation to your interests. That way you will be ten times more passionate about your project.

“Also, make sure you know what your intended publication is – whether it is a political magazine, a particular newspaper or an online website. Get to know the audience and think about whether they would be interested in your critical investigation.

“Finally, I would make sure to pick a subject matter that has many possibilities, angles or people involved. You want a critical investigation that will keep the audience engaged throughout.”

Find out more

Current second year Journalism students can find out more about the Journalism Progression Scholarship and apply here. Applications for 2024-25 are open from 15 April until 19 May 2024.

Scholarships are made available via donations made to our Student Potential Fund; if you would like to find out how you can help support students like Izzy, then please visit our website.