BY CHRIS TONER

A former graphic design student has changed paths to pursue his dream of becoming a sports journalist.

Pearse McLaughlin, 24, of Glasgow, was unhappy on his former course and decided that he needed to take a year out to reconsider his options.

The Celtic fan quickly realised he had a passion for sport and decided he wanted to be a sports writer, so he began studying journalism at City of Glasgow College.

Whilst studying at college, McLaughlin gained valuable work experience by doing a match report in the Scottish Cup clash between Kilmarnock and Queens Park.

When it came to deciding which university to progress to, McLaughlin felt that some courses didn’t suit the career path he hopes to pursue, so he decided to study sports journalism at the University of the West of Scotland.

McLaughlin is keen to gain work experience on the course, namely by being able to go and cover football matches again, something he has missed being able to do during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

Upon completion of his studies, McLaughlin hopes to get a job as sports writer, whether that be with a media outlet or a football club and cover football at any level.