Charlene White – ITV News Presenter
Inspirational YOU supporter & trustee
What did you study at University?
BA (Hons) Journalism at London College of Printing (now London College of Communications)
What is an average day like?
There is no average day in news. Especially when you work across national and regional news. But it always starts with scanning through the mornings papers online, watching a lot of 24-hr news channels, writing scripts and occasionally editing footage.
What has been the highlight of your career to date?
Probably working at the New York Post in Manhattan for 3 months during summer break at university. I had articles published in the paper almost every day, and met some incredible people whilst I was there. At the time, I don’t think I truly understood the magnitude of me being accepted for a work placement there – it was only years later that I worked it out!
What tips would you give to anyone wanting to get into journalism?
Actually want to be a journalist, and not famous. There are so many people who “want” to be journalists but have no idea about current affairs. I’ve read newspapers everyday, and watched news programmes everyday since I was at school. I’m a bit of a geek when it comes to news, and unfortunately I don’t meet enough aspiring journos who have the same passion for it. The other tip would be that London isn’t the centre of news, if you want proper experience — especially in TV — be prepared to travel to other parts of the UK and work in regional TV. It’s the best training you’ll get, and TV execs respect you more if you’ve been on the road as a reporter.
Who inspires you?
My family. No matter what happens in our lives, we strive to do better.
What is your mantra?
Everything happens for a reason.
Why do you support Inspirational YOU?
I believe that inspiring the next generation is a role we should all have a hand in.
