#GoodbyeTNS - Getting actual tech journalism experience was like striking gold

As The National Student closes its doors at the end of the week, current Technology & Gaming Editor George Simister tells us what the platform means to him.

 

I had never realised fully how much The National Student means to me.

That was until I found out it was closing down. Whilst I have only contributed to The National Student since September 2018, a short time in its 17-year history, it has been a massive part of me realising my potential and becoming a journalist.

As I just started my second year at university, I wanted to start gaining as much experience as possible outside my course. My ambition was, and still is, to become a technology journalist, and reporting on things such as the latest phones, autonomous vehicles and so on. 

• Article continues below...
• More stories you may like...
• #GoodbyeTNS - How lucky am I to have something that makes saying goodbye this hard
• #GoodbyeTNS - You're my greatest accident
• #GoodbyeTNS - A note from your former Editor

'My first review (a wireless charger)' Image Credit: George Simister

I found out about The National Student after sitting next to my good friend Joe Rindl in a lecture. As explained to him that I want to gain specific experience writing about all things technology, Joe explained that I should consider applying for The National Student contributors’ programme. The fact that I could get actual tech journalism experience was like striking gold. Being able to write about my passion is what makes The National Student so special to me.

My first article was about the Amazon Alexa powered microwave. And I remember how cool it felt to see an article I had written on a legit website. The following November, I was privileged enough to become the Assistant Technology & Gaming Editor. This opportunity enabled me to further develop as a journalist and also helps others with their writing. And in April, I was made the main editor for Technology & Gaming, giving me an extra boost to produce even more content with the help of my contributors.

'From the Honor 20 Series Phone Launch I attended' Image Credit: George Simister

The National Student provided me with an abundance of opportunities - especially considering I have only been a contributor for a year. I have had two phones sent to me by the manufacturer for review, attended a phone launch, been sent a wireless charger, tested software - some of which I did not expect to be doing so early on in my career.

TNS, it’s been a blast. All I can do is thank you for everything you’ve done and all the doors your experience will help me get through in the future.