Luke Green

Tell us a bit about yourself.

I’ve lived in my hometown of Grimsby for my whole life, wanting to be a journalist for as long as I can remember. My interests include writing, reading and in my younger years, karate. 

What have you been doing since finishing your studies? What are you doing in terms of your career? 

Since finishing, I’ve taken on a job at my local paper, Grimsby Telegraph, and have been working as a junior reporter for a little over two years. In June, I will be taking a seniors exam and will look to make the move up to editor or shift into teaching my profession.

What company are you working for, what is your role, and what does it involve?

Reach PLC, Junior Reporter. I report on all sorts of news in Grimsby, Cleethorpes and Scunthorpe. Overall, we cover Northern Lincolnshire, but these are our main patches. I often go out to crime scenes or to court to report on breaking news. On top of that, I write features on different places and people within the area for weekend pieces and also carry out Facebook Lives at times. I research my own stories, but also get tip offs from various sources who inform us about what’s happening in the local area.

What experiences at Leeds do you think have particularly helped with your career?

The help we received from our tutors about how to use software and how to source stories was arguably the best bits of advice we ever received. As well, the law training was second to none and has been invaluable to me ever since I started my role. 

Why did you choose to study your particular course? Why did you choose the University of Leeds?

I chose to study journalism because I’ve always wanted to work in the news and write for a newspaper. As soon as I came to Leeds I knew it was the right choice. The tutors, the campus, it all felt right.

What aspects of the course did you enjoy the most?

My favourite parts of the course included the law training (when we visited the courts) and also the News Days. They were perfect for helping us make a start in the industry and understand exactly what a real day in journalism is like.

Did you work closely with a particular tutor or member of the University’s academic staff? Tell us about that experience. 

Ian Bucknell was by far the most important tutor throughout my whole three years. I could never fault him and he was so important to me finishing the course, he truly is one in a million.

What activities outside of your studies were you involved in?

I was part of the athletics club and ran the 100m for the team. On top of that, I often visited the Old Bar and many other popular bars in the area with my friends for the pub quiz.

What would you say to students thinking about studying your course?

Don’t think twice. Jump in both feet first and just enjoy your time in Leeds. You’ll never have that much freedom again or be somewhere that has such a great balance between study and leisure. Everything you need to know you’ll learn.

What does Leeds as a city have to offer students?

Anything anyone wants is there in some way. Whether you’re a sports bug, love a film or enjoy a bit of shopping. The campus is so close to the city centre that it’s perfect for anyone who loves to socialise.