Journalism - CHINA Project Information for Journalism in China

Our Journalism Placements in China

Journalism volunteers in China work in various English-language newspapers and magazines in Shanghai. These placements all offer a very exciting and incredibly educational experience because volunteers work in well-established, important publications which are read by thousands. Among the different placements there is a wide variety of subjects to write about. However, volunteers are warned that they must not report or offer an opinion on ANY of China's political news or any other area deemed to be a sensitive nature to the Chinese Government. For anyone who intends to pursue a career in journalism in the West, this experience allows for an appreciation of freedom of speech that would otherwise be taken for granted.

At all placements, volunteers are expected to act professionally. They must be punctual, smartly dressed, and work a five-day week of 8 hours per day. The better your attitude, the more opportunities you will be awarded.

A Placement at a Lifestyle Magazine

Many volunteers work for lifestyle magazines, which allow you to learn and experience Shanghai while working! Over the course of the placement, there is plenty of opportunity to hone your journalism skills or try them out for the first time. Volunteers have the chance to review bars, clubs and restaurants as well as research new topics and articles. Working on lifestyle magazines not only provides a perfect opportunity to improve your writing skills but it also allows you to see the entire production of a magazine at work from pre production to post production. Not to mention that it offers a unique window into Shanghai life and culture and all its facets.

As with any magazine, work is varied and interesting and no two days are likely to be the same. A typical week could involve reviewing one of Shanghai's hottest and hippest new bars and then returning to the office to complete the write up, as well as proof reading and editing articles written by others, and even adding your own ideas on the design and layout of the magazine. In your position as a native English speaker you will be called on to provide sound editorial judgement and make important editorial decisions that will effect the direction of the magazine.

A Placement at a Newspaper

Volunteers work for important newspapers such as the Shanghai Daily, which play important roles within the city. A typical day working for a newspaper will be busy! It might involve working together with Chinese colleagues on stories, interviews, attending press conferences and providing that all important fresh outsiders perspective on the city of Shanghai. You could also be called upon to edit a few pieces and add the final touches to the newspaper. All this with the added pressure of tight deadlines!!!

The role of the volunteer within their placement will be tailored according to their experience and their interests. In all cases, the volunteer will learn a huge amount about journalism and China, while increasing the impact of their CV or portfolio, and with that their future job prospects.