‘Apeejay Institute of Communication opened the doors to the journalism industry for me’

In an engaging interview, Swagatam Roy, a Assistant Producer at The Newsx , shares insights into the daily grind of the newsroom, the transformative journey at Apeejay Institute of Mass Communication (AIMC), and aspirations for the future. This conversation sheds light on the dedication required to excel in the media industry and offers valuable advice for current and prospective students of journalism.

And how was the journey at AIMC?

 My journey at AIMC can be summed up in one phrase: reality check. I vividly remember my first day, entering the studio with my parents and meeting the faculty members. I was confident about my knowledge of news and journalism, but when one of the faculty members asked me a few questions on current affairs, I realised how much I had to learn. This was the first of many reality checks. AIMC opened the doors to the journalism industry for us, providing opportunities to work with major media organizations. However, the success in this field ultimately depends on how hard we work once we are in the industry. The institution teaches you to be resilient and adaptable, crucial traits for any journalist.

So the Professors at AIMC guided you well?

The teachers at AIMC were exceptional. It’s rare to find institutions where teachers are so invested in your progress. They constantly monitored our work and pushed us to improve. AIMC’s curriculum is designed to be comprehensive. The first semester focuses on teaching the essentials, while the second semester allows students to apply their skills independently, with teachers overseeing and guiding us. We produced news packages, short films, and even experimented with micro-films. The multimedia studio provided hands-on experience with anchoring, multi-camera productions, and running news bulletins. This immersive learning environment was instrumental in shaping our skills and confidence.

So where do you see yourself in the next 5 years?

 In the next five years, I aim to establish myself as a multimedia producer with renowned organizations. My ultimate goal is to become an anchor. I believe the diverse experiences and skills I’m gaining now will pave the way for these ambitions. The media landscape is constantly evolving, and I am excited to grow along with it, taking on new challenges and opportunities.

 And finally what advice would you like to offer to current students?

My advice to current students is to embrace the rigorous training at AIMC. Understand that while the institution provides excellent training, the onus is on you to make the most of it. Don’t expect to be spoon-fed; instead, be proactive and dedicated. AIMC will open the doors to the industry, but it’s your hard work and readiness that will determine your success. Build a supportive network, stay curious, and always strive to improve. The journey is challenging but incredibly rewarding if you are prepared to put in the effort.