Introduction

My Name is:  Shruthi Rajendran

BMM College: Jai Hind College

BMM Specialisation: Journalism (Batch of 2010)

Currently Working at: Gulf News Broadcasting (UAE) – News Presenter for Josh FM

Shruti R

Shruti’s Take

Q. Does being a BMMite give you an edge over others in the field of media?

A. It certainly does. I did my Masters immediately after BMM and everything I learnt in theory while studying BMM helped me do the practical bit of the Masters. Even as I did odd freelance jobs as a student, I was still ahead of people who had done non-media related courses.

Q. Do the subjects in BMM help you know the reality of the job? Is there any place for theory in the creative world?

A. Learning the theory is what enables you to apply it in the practical world. BMM subjects aren’t like algebraic formulas where you’re almost certain you’re never going to use it. Simple things like even knowing the correct terms in TV and Radio helps when you go out there. Creativity is great but if you don’t have the discipline to channel it then it’s all just a waste.

Q. BMM or BMM from a particular college? Does it make a difference?

A. I’d like to think so. The brand name matters. But in the end it boils down to how much scope you have to express your ideas, how far you can think outside the box, and how much of it can you apply when you’re put in the situation. You need to learn the minute details for the exam but the facts that you retain which you can use in the real world makes the difference – irrespective of the college.

Q. Internships during colleges – are they relevant in the long run?

A. YES. Absolutely. No experience is irrelevant. Even something as silly as a local newsletter or a community radio is great experience because it shows you have some knowledge of the work. I know it is difficult to manage odd hours of BMM and internships but the vacations are a brilliant time to get whatever experience you can get your hands on.

Q. Work Experience or Higher Studies? What’s your pick? Why?

A. I chose the path of higher studies – as mentioned before – but I also worked while I was doing my MA. I used to help out at a local radio station in England with uploading content on their website from 6 am to 9 am then head off to Uni for my lectures at 10. It was something basic as content but it helped me make contacts, gave me the feel of working in an actual radio station, and even helped me build my skills as a reporter. But the education bit helped as well – it was easier to get work experience opportunities because I had mentioned I was doing my Masters. In the end getting a job was fairly simple – I had a world load of experience and a Masters degree in Broadcast Journalism.

Tips for BMMBoxers

BMM is… a great building block

Your favourite subjects in BMM: Editing – nothing has helped me more after I graduated

5 Must-Follow Tips for BMMites:

• Experiment – it is the best time to try new things
• Create a style or identity for yourself – make sure that style is reflected in everything you do. You will be instantly recognised
• Learn as many softwares as you can while you’re doing your bachelors. People will be amazed
• Have fun – once you get sucked into the adult life – as much fun as media is – you can not make mistakes as often and you will definitely be held responsible for them
• If you have a certain field or specialisation that you’re particularly interested in – don’t give up until you get into that and don’t settle for the next best. You’ll end up doing the thing you started as part-time while you could pursue your dreams, for the rest of your life. Don’t give up

Current BMM students can connect with you on:

On twitter @ShruthiR11 or on email @shruthi.rg11@gmail.com