Dearbhail O'Sullivan
HPSS Graduate 2001
Life as a Researcher/Producer with 103 FM in Bandon Co Cork affords Dearbhla , a 2001 graduate in History, Politics and Social Studies little opportunity to draw a breath. "Compiling material, both local and international for a four hour long current affairs show is very challenging, which means there's never a dull moment in my day!" She sees her role in very clear terms. "As a public service working on behalf of the local community, we highlight issues on air and afford our listeners the opportunity to air their views".
Dearbhail's interest in the media predated her decision to study History Politics and Social Studies at the University of Limerick. When researching various university courses she was intent on choosing a degree programme that would allow her examine contemporary society from a number of perspectives, while hopefully preparing her for a career in radio or TV. The varied nature of the HPSS programme was the main attraction for her and she saw it as a possible way forward in her career
Apart from the mix of subjects within the degree she was also very attracted by the idea of being able to spend her off-campus year gaining both relevant work experience and studying in an international setting. She saw this as both a means of giving herself the necessary skills for the workplace and gaining an appreciation of living abroad. During her work placements Dearbhail was employed in Ireland as an administrator in a training college, attended university in the US and worked as an intern with a congressman in his constituency office on Capitol Hill. Now, as a researcher/producer she uses the skills she developed on her work placements "Liasing with the press has stood to me when dealing with politicians today!"
She finds the pace of work in broadcasting one of its most challenging features. "Media moves at a very fast pace. The good points are also the bad points in that respect! Tracking down stories and breaking news before our competitors leads to a heart stopping day at times" but on work placement she developed some skills to cope with this when she worked "in a busy political environment during the time of the Presidential election, on Al Gore's campaign trail."
"My degree has definitely stood to me in obtaining this position but getting into the media takes more than a degree. Get involved in writing for the college paper or presenting programmes on the campus radio, and then send your CV to every local radio in the country.