Final Blogpost: Reflections on Professional Journalism

Exploring different forms of Journalism

During this course on professional communication, I had the opportunity to explore different kinds of journalism and media practices through multiple field trips. These experiences provided not only a practical insight into how media institutions operate but also a deeper understanding of the role of professional communication in society.

One of the most interesting lessons I learned is that journalism is far more diverse than the conventional image I knew beforehand: reporters writing articles. Meeting with a representative for the Munich Science Communication Lab (MSCL), I discovered a form of journalistic work that bridges science, research, and public communication. MSCL focuses on Planetary Health, exploring the interconnectedness of environmental systems and human well-being, and aims to make complex scientific research accessible to broad audiences. What impressed me most was the interdisciplinary collaboration, where MSCL connects scientists, communicators, and partner organizations to ensure that information is not only accurate but also socially meaningful. This highlighted how journalism can serve society by translating knowledge into actionable insights, fostering dialogue, and promoting public understanding.

Observing Public and Traditional media

The visit to Bayerischer Rundfunk (BR) provided another perspective. Here, I witnessed the scale, professionalism, and coordination required for live broadcasting. Seeing radio plays produced with real actors and props emphasized the dedication to authenticity and storytelling. I also reflected on the challenges public media faces: maintaining independence while serving the public, balancing tradition with innovation, and adapting to digitalization and audience expectations. BR’s funding model, based on public service fees, allows it to operate without political influence, which reinforced for me the importance of trust and neutrality in journalism.

In contrast, visiting Süddeutsche Zeitung offered insight into a traditional print newspaper navigating the digital era. I observed the intricate balance between producing high-quality content, responding to global events, and adapting to a “diverse” audience. While print readership is largely older, digital platforms enable the newspaper to reach younger demographics. Yet, the high subscription costs raised questions about accessibility and social equity. This experience made me critically consider how journalism can remain both sustainable and inclusive, ensuring that high-quality information is available to all, not only a privileged few.

Learning through hands-on practice

The field trips to Media School Bayern highlighted education, innovation, and hands-on learning in journalism. There the students produced live radio and multimedia content, gaining practical experience in a supportive, non-commercial environment. This contrasted with my earlier almost purely theoretical academic studies and underscored the importance of experiential learning for developing confidence and professional skills.

Unfortunately I could not join the field trip to Media Lab Bayern. But after doing some research, and listening to my classmates’ reflections, I got the impression that they also emphasize creativity and innovation, demonstrating how media institutions and startups can collaborate, leverage technology, and experiment with new formats.

Academic and Personal takeaways

An important part of the course was also focusing on our own writing. I really enjoyed writing the opinion piece, where I could express something I feel passionate about. I also appreciated writing in a descriptive way in the reportage, in contrast to the otherwise strict academic writing-style I’m used to. I’ve always enjoyed writing, and this reminded me of the variety of texts and styles one can work with in communication. Writing the reportage allowed me to slow down, pay attention to detail, and bring stories to life in a way that engages the reader. It also made me more aware of the choices journalists and communicators make when deciding how to present information. I realized that professional writing isn’t just about conveying facts, it can also be about crafting a narrative, expressing a viewpoint, and connecting with an audience. This aspect of the course strengthened both my confidence and my appreciation for the many ways writing can be used in media.

Academically, this course deepened my understanding of journalism as both a profession and a social institution itself. I learned about the structures, workflows, and target groups of various media organizations, as well as the challenges they face in a rapidly evolving media landscape. Personally, the field trips inspired me to reflect on my own skills, ambitions, and the kind of journalist or communicator I want to become.

These field trips have shown me that journalism is a dynamic, multifaceted practice. It encompasses traditional reporting, science communication, education, and technological innovation – all with the goal of informing, engaging, and empowering society.

A vision for the future of Journalism

Reflecting on these experiences, I see a clear vision for the future of journalism: one that integrates technological innovation with public service values. Digital platforms, AI tools, and collaborative media labs will expand possibilities for storytelling, audience engagement, and societal impact. However, it will remain crucial to balance accessibility, credibility, and ethical responsibility. Journalism must continue to serve diverse audiences while fostering critical thinking and informed decision-making.

Future journalism will require constant adaptability, and I think it’s crucial to have a problem-solving and forward-thinking mindset working within this field. I envision a media landscape where collaboration, creativity, and ethical responsibility guide innovation, ensuring that journalism remains relevant, accessible, and impactful for future generations.