Zoe Holland

Foreign Desk Editor, NBC News, London
Bachelor of Communication Studies in Journalism with a minor in Radio

Since being at NBC News in London, she has been a part of some incredible news events she never dreamt of covering, says journalism graduate Zoe Holland.

“I help lead the coverage of international breaking news for NBC News by gathering news and making sure we have the most up-to-date, accurate lines. The news desk is the heart of any news operation, and we’re the first point of contact when it comes to breaking news. It can be pretty manic at times but that’s what I love about it.

“Since being here, I’ve been a part of the newsgathering and coverage for the Israel-Hamas war, the Turkey earthquake, and Pope Francis’ death and the Conclave. I’ve also had the opportunity to do live producer coverage for Wimbledon 2024 and for the UK-hosted Ukraine talks. These are things I would have never dreamt of doing, coming from little old Aotearoa.”

The right foundation
Zoe says her studies at AUT prepared her well for the career she has today.

“Because AUT is so hands on I felt very prepared when I started my first full-time job after graduating. Although COVID meant that my last year looked a bit different, I was able to experience what it was like to run and work at a newspaper at Te Waha Nui. You do learn a lot in lectures, but this was an opportunity that prepared me for the industry like no other. When it came to working in my first real newsroom, I was a lot less nervous because of this experience!

“I liked the ‘try before you buy’ approach in the Bachelor of Communication Studies. Compared to a lot of degrees, this programme gave us the chance to try out different subjects before settling on a major. Originally, I went into the degree thinking I’d end up in radio, but during my first year I had an opportunity to take a journalism class which is when I knew this is where I would want to end up.”

Making connections through AUT’s Māori students’ association, Tītahi ki Tua (TKT), was another highlight of her time at university.

“When I first started, I knew pretty much no one in my degree, let alone at the university, but Tītahi ki Tua was where I met some of my closest friends, including some who happened to be studying the same degree. Through this group I was able to embrace te ao Māori and have some incredible support, which really helped me get through university.”

Advice for other students
Zoe, who graduated from AUT in 2020, has some great advice for other students.

“Say yes to the opportunities that may come your way while you’re at AUT – you never know where they may lead you or who you will meet!”

She certainly knows what she is talking about.

“Through my degree I was able to pick up some summer casual work at the New Zealand Herald and Newstalk ZB, and this ultimately led to a part-time job at the New Zealand Herald in my last year of university and a full-time position once I had finished.”