I think I have a totally healthy relationship with magazines. But, circa 2003, my mother would have begged to differ. I suppose the fact that her first grader was color coordinating September’s glitter eye shadow trend to the pattern on her Tamagotchi was a moderate cause for concern. Alas, we agreed to disagree, and my magazine addiction continued.  

 

By the time I was 18, I was virtually a walking encyclopedia of magazine back issues. Thus, it came as no surprise when I decided to pursue a degree in journalism and mass communication at The George Washington University’s School of Media and Public Affairs. Fast forward to present day, and I’m interning in Hearst Tower at Food Network Magazine. Six-year-old me wouldn’t believe it.

 

When I walked into the tower on day one, I was having heart palpitations. Saying I was simply nervous would be a gross understatement. I had no idea what to expect, no idea who I would be working with, and absolutely no idea what I would be doing.

 

But, long story short, everything worked out.

 

Being an intern at Food Network Magazine and Pioneer Woman Magazine not only gave me incredible editorial exposure, but it also provided me with the opportunity to work with a truly amazing team. I was treated as a member of the staff and got a 10-week taste of what working at a major print publication entails. From attending press events to transcribing interviews to pitching stories and sending approximately 500 emails for the gift guide, my day was always different (and filled with free food!).

 

My prior internships at Philadelphia Wedding, Philadelphia Magazine and Her Campus had been primarily digital. It was an invaluable learning experience to immerse myself into a print environment over the past few months. Working at Food Network Magazine taught me to write with the reader in mind and emphasized the importance of teamwork. But the reason I grew as a journalist this summer is undeniably because of the editors and supervisors in the office. They trusted and encouraged me, allowed me to take on projects and have independence; all while offering guidance. I loved the journalistic aspects of the internship, but the editors and positive environment are what made my experience unforgettable.

 

I had a fabulous summer, met some of the most amazing and talented people (ASME mentor included!), and was given the backstage pass to the production that goes into making the glossy pages I grew up seeing on the newsstand.

 

Oh, and one last thing: I still love glitter eyeshadow.