Photo/Claire Holt

Andrew Meldrum '77

Southern Africa Correspondent,
The Guardian and The Observer

My education at the Journalism School gave me an appreciation of the principles and ethics of journalism that has grown in importance to me in the 30 years since I graduated.

My year at Columbia was exciting, challenging and stimulating, as I learned how to report and write news stories, features, commentaries and magazine articles. I received much more than an excellent grounding in the fundamentals of good journalism. It is the school's emphasis on the ethics and values of good journalism that has been the most important. Throughout my career I have been faced with many difficult questions - both small and large – and I have been able to make decisions with confidence, thanks to the grounding I received at the J-School.

I became friends with instructors and fellow students of immense talent and drive. Their support and friendship has been very important throughout my career.
One academic year goes by very quickly at Columbia, but I have found that it has had a lasting impact on my career, especially on my outlook through many challenges.

The encouragement I received at Columbia spurred me on to pursue my dream of becoming a foreign correspondent. When I went to newly independent Zimbabwe in 1980, my J-School education came with me and helped me to get the best out of the reporting opportunities.

About the School

Andrew Meldrum '77