Meet MA Journalism student Ella Katz

We recently caught up with Ella Katz, an MA Journalism student at London College of Communication. Originally from Melbourne, Ella shared her journey to London and what inspired her to pursue a postgraduate course in journalism.

Hello Ella! What made you decide to study in London and at UAL?

I knew I was interested in studying for an MA in Journalism, but looking around for courses in Australia, there didn’t seem enough scope for me to take a creative approach in my studies. I’m interested in arts journalism, specifically writing about music, art and fashion. UAL is really the only university that offers an arts journalism course, so it was an easy choice!

I did a Liberal Arts undergraduate degree a couple of years ago and came out of it feeling lost, so I wanted to find a university that was less traditionally academic and that could give me practical, hands-on skills.

What attracted you to study Journalism?

It’s a predictable answer, but I’ve always loved writing and storytelling. I’m inspired by the intimacy of print publications, and the way feature writing combines research and creativity. For a long time, it felt too scary to pursue this as a career – after all everyone is quick to tell you that print is dead and journalism is a dying art (not true). I eventually realised that I would kick myself if I never properly gave it a go, so here we are.

How did you find the process applying from Australia to study at UAL?

It felt intimidating at first, because there is just so much to organise as an international student. But the more I looked into it, I found there was so much support available to me. There’s a dedicated UAL representative in Australia (shout out to Gavin) who I emailed a lot with different questions about applications, scholarships, visas, rentals — and he was so helpful.

How have you found the student community?

Truly lovely. There’s a really strong sense of community on my course. I have made some friendships here that I hope to keep for life. Especially meeting other international students who have made a similar transition and are at similar stages of their lives, as well as some lovely Brits who have taken us under their wings. They’ve all made my transition so much easier.

How has the transition been from Melbourne to London? 

The transition has been mixed — it’s been exciting, overwhelming and at times, lonely. But it’s also been an opportunity to take a beat and re-evaluate things, and to craft a life in a new place from scratch. Moving at the end of Melbourne's winter and at the start of London's winter has been a bit brutal, but vitamin D tablets have been my saviour. The cost of living and the challenge of finding a job in London have made things tricky too.

But with each challenge I’ve also noticed my confidence and self-assuredness increase, and it’s made me more committed to making the most of this course. So, while it’s definitely not an easy transition to make, I wouldn’t change a thing.

What’s your favourite spot in London so far?

I live in South London, near Brixton, so I’ve loved exploring that area. Herne Hill and Brockwell Park are among my favourite spots to go to, they feel like a cosy little village to me. Peckham is up there too and has a really thriving creative scene (I’ve joined a community garden there!).

East London is of course a lot of fun too, there are so many great gigs and events around Hackney and Dalston that I’ve been loving.

What do you hope to get out of your time at UAL and in London?

I hope to leave my course with confidence in writing, editing and pitching, and a deep understanding of the type of journalism I want to create. I’m also really enjoying learning video and podcast production, and I’d love to continue to explore those formats.

I want to make the most of the creative opportunities that are in London, and to continue to make new connections with lovely people.