AIU Final Year Media & Communication Intern Excels at The Star

In today’s fast-moving digital world, students who can successfully bridge the gap between classroom knowledge and real-world application often stand out in their industries. One such inspiring example is Ms. Salma Fairus Izdihar, a final-year student of Bachelor of Media and Communication (BMC) at Albukhary International University (AIU).

Currently undertaking her industrial training internship at Malaysia’s leading English daily, The Star, Salma has already begun leaving a lasting impression with her published stories, many of which proudly carry her byline. For an intern, this is not just a milestone but also an achievement that reflects both dedication and professional readiness.

Stepping Into the Newsroom

Salma officially joined the newsdesk team on August 1, 2025, as part of her Bachelor’s degree internship requirement. What makes her journey significant is not only the prestige of interning at one of Malaysia’s most respected newspapers but also the opportunity to experience the real pressure of modern journalism.

She quickly noticed the difference between academic writing exercises and the urgency of newsroom demands. As she explained, “The assignments during my studies gave me a strong grasp of journalism fundamentals. However, in the newsroom, the deadlines are much tighter. At AIU, we had weeks to complete assignments, but here we are given as little as two hours to produce a full news article.”

This contrast between theory and practice is precisely why industrial training programmes remain vital. They prepare students to adapt, grow, and succeed when placed in real-world environments.

Covering Real Human Stories

One of the highlights of her internship so far was reporting on a scam victim—a man in his 50s who fell prey twice, first to fraudsters and then to someone impersonating a lawyer offering help.

“Meeting him face-to-face was a chilling reminder of the real people behind the headlines,” Salma shared. Stories like these not only sharpen her reporting skills but also build empathy, reminding future journalists that every article carries the weight of human experience.

This exposure to real human impact stories is an invaluable lesson for any journalist in training. It highlights the importance of balancing accuracy, compassion, and urgency under challenging deadlines.

Advice for Future Journalists

When asked about her advice for students aspiring to enter journalism, Salma emphasized the importance of resilience, motivation, and purpose.

“It’s all about how well we perform under pressure to deliver quality write-ups within tight deadlines. Have a strong motivation and be clear about why you chose this field, because only then will you be able to withstand the challenges of this fast-paced profession,” she said with a smile.

Her words serve as a guiding light for students not only at AIU but also for young people worldwide who dream of stepping into the ever-evolving world of media and communication.

How AIU Prepares Students for the Media Industry

Salma’s journey also demonstrates how Albukhary International University equips students for professional success. The Bachelor of Media and Communication (BMC) programme blends theoretical understanding with practical exercises, ensuring that graduates are industry-ready.

Through assignments, workshops, and projects, students learn the fundamentals of news writing, media ethics, digital communication, and storytelling. More importantly, the university emphasizes hands-on learning opportunities, such as internships, industry collaborations, and real-time projects that help students apply what they have learned in class.

Salma’s success is a testament to the programme’s strength in producing graduates who are not only skilled but also confident to take on the high-pressure demands of modern newsrooms.

Inspiring the Next Generation

Internships like Salma’s at The Star highlight the importance of practical training for university students. They serve as a reminder that classroom education provides the foundation, but true professional growth begins when students are placed in real-world situations.

Her story is also an inspiration for many young individuals considering careers in journalism, print media, broadcasting, and digital storytelling. It proves that with determination, strong academic training, and the courage to take on challenges, students can achieve remarkable milestones even before graduation.