Ask Fashion Girl

Dear Hopeless #2,

Getting a fashion magazine job is a challenge and there is major competition for openings, but don't let that discourage you! Use competition to your advantage and let it inspire you to gain all of the experience you can while in college. Especially since you are a freshman, you have a myriad of opportunities ahead of you to use the resources at your college. Work on your school's newspaper and try to be involved in every possible aspect of its production, from writing and editing to photography and layout design. This will help you decide what path you want your career to follow, whether its reporting, editing, photography, design/graphics, advertising, or writing. A great way to develop your writing skills and integrate your love of fashion is to start your own fashion advice column or series of fashion news articles.

An exciting fashion magazine position to consider is that of a stylist. Stylists are responsible for styling the magazine photo shoots, including pulling clothes, accessories, props, and other items together to create innovative themes. The position also entails working with fashion designers and companies to build relationships between them and the magazine.

As an English major, you will be taking plenty of grammar and writing courses. You should also consider completing some fashion-oriented classes like apparel construction and merchandising. Fashion magazines thrive on the latest, hottest styles so be sure to stay current with fashion trends and keep up with designers.

Finally, your best bet is to intern specifically for a fashion magazine. Many magazine editors are eager to recruit journalism students and you will gain invaluable experience to fill your resume, as well as making those connections you will need later. Apply early, even one year ahead, for a summer internship. A great resource for internship leads is your school's career planning department. Also, look inside fashion magazines for the credits page, usually located right after the table of contents. There you will find names, phone numbers, and addresses for submitting work and inquiring about available internships at the magazine. Stay passionate, surround yourself with fashion and focus on your goal!

Have fun shopping!