Students in the fourth year of the degrees in Journalism and Audiovisual Communication of the Universidad Europea del Atlántico (European University of the Atlantic, UNEATLANTICO) visited the facilities of El Diario Montañés. The aim was to learn more about the daily work in the editorial office of the dean of the press in Cantabria.
The new academic director of the Communication degrees, Ana Visiers, accompanied the students who were welcomed by Aser Falagán, teacher at UNEATLANTICO and head of the Sports section of El Diario Montañés.
During the visit, the students had the opportunity to observe first-hand how journalistic work is carried out at the newspaper. They were also able to interact with the journalists and learn first-hand about their experiences and advice on the profession.
Marcos Menocal, the newspaper’s sports editor and presenter of the program “El alargue,” pointed out that journalism is in a moment of transition due to the advance of the Internet and the demand for instant information. This is why he stated that, although paper is still important and profitable, it is necessary to adapt to new forms of communication.
Lola Gallardo, journalist and editor of El Diario Montañés, also shared her experience with the students. Gallardo is the coordinator of the digital edition of the newspaper, professor at UNEATLANTICO, and president of the Asociación de Periodistas de Cantabria (Association of Journalists of Cantabria). She has recently been appointed third vice-president of the Federation of Spanish Journalists’ Associations.
Gallardo explained that the newspaper’s website is updated daily at the beginning of the day. She also stressed that in the digital environment, decisions are made quickly, and the importance of each news item is assessed in real time.
As for the qualities she values in the people who work with her, Gallardo has emphasized curiosity, a nose for news, and hard work. She has also stated that she looks for initiative and passion for what they do in her employees. “Despite the stress and nerves involved in daily web work, the satisfaction of a job well done is very rewarding.”
In terms of advice for students, Gallardo has emphasized the importance of specializing in the area in which they wish to work, mastering digital tools and having a passion for their work.
Finally, Álvaro G. Polavieja, editor and head of social media at El Diario Montañés, shared his perspective with the students, mentioning the importance of adapting to technological changes and focusing on digital journalism. He also recommended learning about data journalism, a growing specialty.