Katie Gallagher: ‘I always wanted to go into media in some shape or form.’

What is the worst job you’ve done? 

Before getting into journalism I worked for/with my parents in restaurants and cafes growing up. While there were some clashes in the kitchen, I won’t go get myself burned telling any tales. 

I’ve actually always enjoyed work and the buzz of working with people, so I’m definitely missing that now working from home. 

What did you want to be when you were growing up? 

I always wanted to go into media in some shape or form. In my teens I was drawn to the idea of TV or radio, but after some work experience in the Donegal Democrat I soon fell in love with writing. 

And I suppose I should have guessed Showbiz is where I’d end up judging by the amount of magazines I collected (hoarded) as a teen. 

Social media platform of choice? 

Instagram is my go to all day everyday. I’m a visual person and I feel it’s a nice platform in general in terms of content and attitude. 

I find Twitter a little bit more intimidating. 

Fave memory of 2020 (if there is one!)

Like so many other people, I ended up back at home with my family during the pandemic, and spent probably the longest time back in Donegal than I have since I left for college. 

Despite the sadness and madness going on around me, I really look back on the time as a lovely period in my life, binging Downton Abbey with my family and getting to spend the whole summer out playing football and hurling with my wee nine-year-old brother.

Most overused word or phrase

Does ‘wee’ count if I’m from Donegal? 

As someone who has to listen back to my own voice when transcribing interviews everyday I also always catch myself randomly overusing certain words depending on the month.

Recently that word is ‘absolutely’...I cringe every time. 

What do you consider your greatest achievement to date? 

I was nominated for Young Journalist of the Year and Showbiz Journalist of the Year last year and despite not winning either, it was a lovely lift to have been named amongst some of the best in the business. 

Hidden talent? 

I can crack an egg with one hand...is that a talent?! Either way, I'll showcase my trick to anyone that will stand long enough to watch.

What is your guiltiest pleasure? 

I don’t feel one bit guilty about it, but I’m a huge Disney fan and listen to the soundtrack on Spotify every single day. 

Name the film you’d watch again tonight? 

Dirty Dancing. 

Biggest life lesson to date? 

Life is short and time is very precious. Never take anything or anyone for granted. 

It could all change at any minute. 

The boss is buying you a drink, what are you having? 

After this long without cocktails, it would have to be a Long Island Iced Tea, or Pornstar Martini. I wouldn’t say no to a pint of Guinness in a pub though all the same. 

If you could go back in time, where would you go? 

Ohh, so many. But I think the 80s was a time to be alive. (And no I wasn’t alive then...I’m a baby). 

But big hair, great music and dance! That’s an era I want to experience.  

What is top of your bucket list? 

To live in New York! I went just before the pandemic hit last year and would love to spend a few years there.  

Describe your 2020 using emoji only: 🤯

To the audience: Buy a newspaper, read trusted websites, we have plenty to choose from, and of course stay safe.