Josh Aronson graduated from MA International Journalism for Digital Media at the age of 39. Studying a Master’s degree at the University of Salford as a mature student gave him the skills to take his journalism career to the next level.
Today, Josh works as Jewish World and Diaspora Correspondent for Maariv, one of Israel’s leading newspapers, where he champions inclusion in the industry, a cause that is close to his heart as an autistic journalist.
What made you choose the University of Salford, and what stands out most about your time as a student?
I chose the University of Salford to elevate my journalism career to the next level. Since graduating, I have applied all the skills I have gained at Salford to advance both my journalistic integrity and my commitment to activism. My proudest moment was when my post-graduate lead invited me to deliver a guest lecture to his undergraduate students, as he was impressed with the quality of my work.
What do you do now, and what do you enjoy most about it?
I currently serve as the Jewish World and Diaspora Correspondent for Maariv, one of Israel’s leading newspapers, and act as a representative on several high-level boards, including President Isaac Herzog’s ‘Voice of the People’ initiative. My work sits at the intersection of international journalism and global community leadership, specifically focusing on Jewish engagement and disability advocacy.
What I enjoy most is the ability to be a voice for ‘people with determination.’ Being on the autistic spectrum myself, I find immense fulfilment in using my professional platform to shift global perspectives on inclusion. Whether that’s through policy changes in aviation accessibility or honouring forgotten history. I love the challenge of balancing high-pressure breaking news with meaningful activism that creates a more inclusive world.
What’s a moment you’ve felt proud of since leaving Salford?
My proudest professional moment occurred during the recent terrorist attack at the Heaton Park synagogue. Despite living directly across from the site and being personally evacuated, I immediately transitioned into reporting mode. Following the event, hosts from several major networks remarked on the high level of professionalism maintained while reporting from the heart of a crisis affecting my own community.
How did your time at Salford help shape where you are now?
My time at Salford took me from local advocate to an international correspondent. The MA in International Journalism provided me with the technical training and ethical grounding necessary to report for major outlets.
The environment at Salford empowered me to embrace my identity as a journalist on the autistic spectrum. Being recognised by my tutors for my professional standard, highlighted by the invitation to lecture undergraduates, gave me confidence. It taught me how to channel my unique perspective into a professional asset, allowing me to bridge the gap between journalism and meaningful community activism.
If you could share one message or piece of advice with current Salford students and recent graduates, what would it be?
My advice is to seek discomfort. Growth happens when you step outside your comfort zone and challenge your own boundaries. You must realise that everyone has a unique voice that deserves to be heard, and your perspective is your greatest asset. No matter the obstacles, you can accomplish whatever you set your mind to by simply pushing forward. Persistence is often the only thing standing between a dream and a career.
Is there anything else you’d like to share about your experience at Salford or since graduating?
My journey since Salford has proven that a disability is not a barrier, but a unique lens through which to view the world. Balancing my role at Maariv with global leadership positions, like serving on President Herzog’s ‘Voice of the People’ council, has allowed me to champion the inclusive term ‘people with determination.’ I am incredibly grateful that Salford provided a platform for me to refine my professional voice, enabling me to advocate for accessible transportation and meaningful Holocaust commemoration on an international scale.
I hope my story encourages others to realise that their unique backgrounds are exactly what the media industry needs.
Thank you to Josh for sharing his story! If you’d like to share your Salford story, we’d love to hear from you – get in touch at alumni@salford.ac.uk.