Sitemap

My first look inside a newsroom

2 min readFeb 8, 2025
The Statesman, Kolkata

When I dropped off my CV at Statesman, I didn't expect to get a call the same evening, nor did I expect to be named 'eager beaver' because no amount of work was ever enough to satisfy me. I am forever greatful to Arya sir for believing in me since day 1.

For about a month, Abirbhab sir and Debroop sir taught me the art of page making, which most people think is easy but actually involves a lot of thought. You cannot make a mistake here; it’s crucial how you place every copy.

While I watched them work and peppered them with questions, they always made sure I went home on time. I still remember the first time I went for a reporting assignment and how I never stopped asking for another. I was fortunate to have the Tarun Sir, a veteran journalist to give me reality checks and advice that I shall never find in a book.

Dola ma'am welcomed me to the features department, she introduced me to a world that's not just mere reporting but a world where I can experiment with stories and the art of storytelling.

During my second month, I was lucky enough to befriend Priyanjali di, who taught me much more about journalism and reporting. She helped me get out of my comfort zone and write articles passionately. My best friend in the office was Tamal sir, who made sure I had enough work to keep me busy.

I was fortunate to find myself in a newsroom that never stopped my learning.

My first byline
Another one
My favourite feature story
Dipali Banka
Dipali Banka

Written by Dipali Banka

Hi, I am a student journalist at the ACJ Bloomberg programme in Chennai. I love reading and writing.

No responses yet