Terror without training: First-hand experiences of student journalists covering the 2019 Christchurch mosque shootings.

This article examines the firsthand experiences of undergraduate journalism students from the New Zealand Broadcasting School (NZBS) who covered the 2019 Christchurch mosque shootings, New Zealand's deadliest mass shooting and first terror attack of its kind. With no formal trauma training, these students relied heavily on personal (soft) skills such as communication, empathy, teamwork, and adaptability to navigate the challenges of reporting on a traumatic breaking news event. The study highlights how students applied journalistic instincts and ethical considerations while balancing their well-being and professional responsibilities, often supported by peer networks. It underscores the importance of integrating trauma-specific training, including simulated exercises and health and safety planning, into journalism education to better prepare students for future coverage of traumatic events.