Not bad once you get past the first semester of the second year! Lecturers need looking into though.

Enough of the focus on the Echo, the majority of students have higher aspiration than regional journalism. If we've been given the chance to think about what it's like to write for a national publication then it'll improve our regional skills when we get there, rather than having to learn all over again.

More chances to get work in print, rather than OnCampus. It's not even in the paper this week, prompting a few students (such as myself) to wonder about what it was we worked towards and stressed out over deadlines for. Surely it's easier to attempt to write for something which exists...

Perseverance is key though. A number of us considered dropping out over Christmas, with only the prospect of wasted money keeping us going. There are plenty of places which aim to be able to get all your NCTJs (including shorthand) within the space of a few months for £1,500. Therefore when you're paying £3,000 a year for a degree you should at least feel like it's money well spent rather than asking for a refund.

Speaking of which, magazines chances are aplenty. DN Magazine (for the four issues a year) is a good start, and there are plenty of websites based around the country that, whilst not paying for submissions, are good enough to actually give you a byline and publish your work in a wider realm.

Also, start a blog! It's a good way to store a portfolio online if nothing else.