Here’s hoping I’m back as a full member

“No matter how dire the situation is, he or she, in spirit at least, is not alone.” These stirring words spoken by Alan Johnston as he addressed the ADM made me realise the importance of the NUJ, writes Louise Steggals.

As a student weeks away from graduation, I have spent the last three years having a picture of a noble profession painted for me. So it was fantastic to hear the people who are the backbone of the industry reveal their deep-rooted passion for journalism as they discussed the protection of journalists’ rights and the improvement of working conditions.

The student conference that took place the day before the main meeting was an opportunity to meet fellow journalism students and provided a clear insight into how the NUJ works and the support it can give us.

It was good to have the tutor Caroline Holmes and her team to bolster our confidence in our trade by making sure we understood what it can mean to be part of the NUJ.

I hope I get to return as a full union member and look forward to meeting as colleagues those who have been my advisors.

The Journalist is published by the National Union of Journalists