CL Interview with Ed2010 Founder and President Chandra Turner: Magazine Industry 101

College Lifestyles had the pleasure of interviewing the founder and president of Ed2010, Chandra Turner. Ed2010 is an informational source where magazine editor wannabes can get inside tips and advice on how to break into the industry. The website has magazine internship and job listings, advice sections, intern blogs, and even happy hours listings where magazine lovers can share editing and job information. It is an invaluable source if you are interested in entering the magazine world.

1. College Lifestyles: What sparked your interest to create Ed2010?

Chandra Turner: Well I never set out to create a huge organization like Ed2010 is today. It was just a group of friends of friends who connected over magazines and beer. I moved here from Indiana right out of college and kept hearing that to get into magazines you had to “know people.” I didn’t know anyone other than my best friend who was also from Indiana. But that changed soon enough. I met other interns and assistants and we bonded. And people started calling me and asking me about jobs and secrets to hearing about jobs. So I started an email newsletter before they were called e newsletters. Slowly that group of twelve or so who met for beer, grew into thirty which grew into hundreds. And now we have 30+ college chapters and a dozen city chapters and all these programs and events. It’s pretty incredible how it organically grew.

2. College Lifestyles: What part of Ed2010 is most utilized by undergraduates looking to break into the magazine industry?

CT: Most of Ed2010 is directed to undergrads or recent grads.

3. College Lifestyles: What plans do you have for Ed2010 in the future?

CT: We are announcing a partnership with ASME, the American Society of Magazine Editors, on a program this fall. I’m very excited about that. Because Ed is my second job, I try not to do more than one big thing a year.

4. College Lifestyles: What has been the most rewarding part of working on Ed2010?

CT: Meeting so many young talented people when they graduate, or in some cases even when they are still in school, and then watch them go on to get their dream jobs at a magazine. Now that Ed has been around for about 15 years a lot of my original Edsters have gone on to do really amazing things. It’s exciting to watch.

5. College Lifestyles: What is one piece of advice you wish you had known when you were just starting out in the magazine industry?

CT: The industry has changed so much that any advice that I would have received 15 years ago would be moot today! But I guess if I had a crystal ball that advice would be: think digitally.

6. College Lifestyles: What are some daily actions that undergrads should take if they would like to work in the magazine industry?

CT: Work on your school publication! Doesn’t matter what it is, just be on a staff somewhere. At the campus mag, website, blog, newspaper, whatever. Be a part of a team that creates content. Not just a random contributor. It’s important to working on a staff one day. I look for people in college media when I’m hiring.

7. College Lifestyles:What are the top three character traits that are important to have when working in the magazine industry?

CT: Flexibility — being able to jump right into a new skill or way of thinking. Things are always changing. 2. Ability to take criticism. This is hard for recent grads to deal with, especially those who blog and haven’t had “real” editors before. 3. Multi-talent! Knowing a little bit about everything: web writing, social networking, video editing, print editing, research, copy editing.

8. College Lifestyles: What are the top three skills that undergrads should master to prepare for a magazine internship or job?

CT: 1. Know how to write. 2. Know how to write. 3. Know how to write. Still it all comes down to being able to get your ideas across well on paper.

9. College Lifestyles: What are some other resources college students can use to improve their editing skills?

CT: Write. The best editors are good writers.

10. College Lifestyles: What is your favorite part about working in the magazine industry?

CT: It’s hard to say just one thing. There are so many things. I love that every day is different. The industry is changing so much and there’s still so much to learn. That’s exciting. I also love the nitty gritty of getting my head into a story and figuring out how it should turn out. And I love the people. I’m surrounded by so much talent. So much creativity. So many people wanting to make a difference in the world, as cheesy as it may sound. That’s what I love about journalism and about magazines.

If you are interested in a career as a magazine editor then get back to the basics. Pay attention in your journalism classes and learn to write well. Then, write, write and write some more.

Maggie Young is a junior at the University of Kansas majoring in journalism. She is a magazine editor wannabe and found this advice to be extremely helpful. Hopefully these tips can help you along on your magazine editor career path!

Presenting Yourself in an Interview: Help From Classy Drake University Co-ed’s

First impressions are everything co-eds. How you present yourself physically in an interview is just as important as your first “Hello.” We want them to remember you for the classy, and confident woman that you are. With the help of six classy Drake University co-eds they have given CL their go-to interview looks that wow the interviewers, and help them land the job.

“Subtle nail polish and low-key makeup are musts! I think the outfit depends on the job you’re applying for, but should be conservative and classy no matter what. Make them remember you, not your cleavage or crop-top T-shirt.” – Clara H., Drake University Senior

“Before heading off to an interview, I always do a little wardrobe homework. If it’s a job in the business world, a suit is always a sharp and good bet. I usually like to add some sort of subtlety-patterned top under my suit coat to give it a little punch. If it’s a job in a more creative setting, a cute skirt/top or dress and boyfriend blazer combo is my go-to. Natural makeup, moderate heels and no super-flashy jewelry complete any professional look.” – Rachel L., Drake University Junior

Example of a skirt you may wear to an interview paired with a dressy top.

“I try to be conservative, but also distinctive. A neutral colored pencil skirt and a lightweight dressy top. For the top I may go with a bright color or feminine print, but nothing too flashy, with some cute heels that compliment it. My hair is neatly pulled back and light on the make-up.” – Jordan R., Drake University Alumna

“I like to wear a pencil skirt and a button down top paired with my nude heels. I try to avoid loud costume jewelry and opt for a demure piece like pearls. My hair is styled so its out of my face and my make-up light and natural.” – Amy G., Drake University Junior

Example of a jacket paired with a pencil skirt complimented by a lightweight blouse. Classy, and not too flashy.

“I like to wear a black suit with a bright colored top underneath; something simple and classy – but unique. My makeup is natural, and my hair is out of my face. Also, not too much jewelry or too high of heels.” – Cassie B., Drake University Junior

“The outfit totally depends on the interview. Looking like you already fit into the aesthetic of your (hopefully) new workplace is key. If you’re unsure of what’s appropriate then always go dressier. A pencil skirt is perfect, but if you prefer pants then try a pair of straight-leg black trousers paired with a silk blouse and plain color cardigan. I keep to muted, feminine shades like lilac or peach. I also put on a pair of small, silver hoops and an oversized watch. My hair, pulled back into a loose, low bun with side swept bangs is modern, pretty and no-fuss.” – Emma C., Drake University Junior

While the fashion is always a must for an interview, the poised and confident co-ed that you are will shine through!

Lindsay Dressen is an intern at College Lifestyles (TM), and is a junior magazine journalism major at Drake University minoring in sociology. She is a movie buff that loves to be with her friends and family, and enjoys working out, ethnic food and indie music!

Searching for an Internship–the Classy Way!

As exams are coming up, the last thing on your mind is worrying about an internship. However, now is a great time to begin looking because many jobs are posted and you’ll stand out for being the one applying, despite the looming deadlines of finals.

1. So you want to do an internship?

Things to think about

Think about the broad industry that you want to work in and what kind of tasks you want to undertake. Want to do some writing? Look for magazine or blog work. If you’re looking to get better at social media (and put the endless hours you’ve spend on facebook to good use) check out internships with start-up companies that need help getting the word out about their business!

Scheduling

Decide how much time you have to dedicate to the potential internship. Don’t apply for positions that require you to come in to the office 3-5 days a week if your class schedule won’t allow it. Virtual internships can be really great if you are in a small town (or just want to work at night!).

2. Preparing your internship packets/ applications.-writing your resume

Writing your resume

Start by listing all of the jobs or volunteer positions that you’ve had and what you did in each position. Are there transferable skills that could be useful at your potential internships? Highlight these!

Pay attention to details

Spell check your resume multiple times. Read it out loud to make sure there are no obvious grammatical errors. If you have time, have a trusted professor (or the career center) look over it for you. There’s nothing worse that realizing after you sent a resume off that you misspelled something!

Submit everything on time

Deadlines are very important! Sending things in on time, or early, shows that you value the time of your potential employer and that you are a reliable person.

3. You’ve landed an interview! Now what?

Interview preparation

Research the company and know what they stand for! Look at the mission statement and see how you fit into the company’s long-term goals.

Follow up

Always send a thank-you note! It will make a big impression and show that you really want the position and value the employer’s time.

Resources for Finding Internships:

http://www.internqueen.com

http://www.youtern.com

http://www.internships.com

Alexandra Patterson is a junior at Kenyon College. She has had five virtual internships during the past semester and is looking forward to many more internship experiences!

A Classy First Step on the Job Hunt (Part 1)

Linked In is a professional networking site that allows you to get your resume out there in a fairly easy way. I know it seems really early to start looking for jobs—especially if you’re in your first year of college or still applying to colleges—but the truth is you can’t start too early! By getting your profile started now, you won’t have to rack your brain trying to remember all the really amazing stuff you did! Between sororities, student government, volunteering and internships it can get really confusing. Let LinkedIn be your go to place after you complete a resume building activity!

Joining LinkedIn is easy—just go to http://www.linkedin.com and follow the prompts. Once you get your basic profile set up, come back here for some profile tips!

1)     Update your display name to reflect the full, professional name on your business cards, website and social media accounts.
Why: Consistency is key when establishing your personal brand.

2)     Change your professional headline.
-Click on the Profile tab in the header bar.
- Just under your name, there should be a professional headline. Click on the link to the right that says “edit”.
- Write a professional headline that reflects your current position and your company’s name.
Why: Searchability is key. You want to be found when someone searches for your name or your company!

3)     Change your public profile URL
- Go to Settings, on the left hand column there will be a link marked “Public Profile”
- Once you click this link you will have the option to choose a new url. Pick something that includes your full name, perhaps adding a middle initial if your name is no longer available
Why: Changing your public profile url to something more recognizable will allow others to search for you more easily. Your name probably already pulls up a few results in Google—why not make one of them your professional profile?

4)     Write a great summary.
- Edit your “summary”
- Be sure to use industry key words in your summary.
Why: One of the great features of LinkedIn is the ability to search for experts in a given field. When you put words that recruiters will be looking for in you profile, you have a greater chance of being found.

5)     Make sure that you aren’t just rehashing your resume.
- Your LinkedIn should be an extension of your resume, not simply an online version of it. You can post examples of projects you created, give the links to websites you were featured on, etc. Why: LinkedIn offers much more flexibility than the traditional resume so use it!

For more career tips go see Kathryn’s article How to Make a Career Fair Work for You and check back next week for tips 6-10 on setting up your profile!

Alexandra Patterson is an intern with College Lifestyles ™. She was introduced to LinkedIn by her college counselor and hasn’t looked back. Her favorite thing to do on LinkedIn is join discussions relevant to her desired field—there are plenty of wonderful professionals who would love to give advice to those just starting their careers!

How To Make A Career Fair Work For You!

So you’ve finally settled into your classes, and you think you’re all set, right? Wrong! Everyone’s telling you that it’s already time to look ahead to getting that summer internship or full time job after (gasp!) graduation and you’re stressing out! Where do you start? Well after reading Karen’s article about preparing for the job search, look for a career fair in your area. Many schools (like mine) have one a few weeks into the fall semester, and that’s a perfect way to get some networking and get started with your search. Now here are a few tips to make any career fair you attend the most successful it can be:

1. Know What You Want

Are you looking for an internship? Are you just looking for networking and connections? Or are you like me, and slowly accepting that graduation is a mere 8 months away and panicking because you need a job in one of the worst economies ever? Well, first, don’t panic, because it’ll all work out just fine, and second, knowing what you want will make the career fair more successful for you. If you’re looking for an internship, you’ll know beforehand the companies that are looking for interns, and you can target them. Plus, you’ll know better how to tailor your resume to what you want, which leads us to step 2…

2. Print Out Plenty of Copies of Your Resume

This one’s pretty straight-forward. Plan to hand out resumes to about 75% of the companies you visit (others will only want you to submit them online), and have one readily available when you walk up to each booth. You should have your resume as up to date as possible, and you’ll want to know what’s on it since employers will most likely ask you questions about it.  If you have business cards, also be sure to have plenty to go around, these can be great for when you’re looking more for networking than for a job, as it only gives an employer your contact information.

3. Research the Companies Ahead of Time

Companies will be impressed if you already have an idea of what they’re all about.  Recruiters get tired of explaining what their companies do 50 million times in one day, so it’s refreshing when someone comes prepared. It also shows that you are willing to take initiative on the job, and will be more likely to be hired.  And you shouldn’t just quote their website back to them. Trust me, they know it. Instead, think outside the box. Let them know that you’ve seriously considered their company. Tell them your (positive!) impressions: What did you like? What do you most enjoy about their company? What about their company makes you think you’d fit in?  This has the added bonus of showing off your critical thinking skills! You’ll look so smart! And the information doesn’t just have to come from their website, look around! I read an article in Vanity Fair about a company who happened to be at my career fair, and after bringing this up, the recruiter was so impressed. She saw that I was attentive, well-read, and she knew what I valued in her company. And guess what? I was offered an interview!  So use what you know about the companies!

Also, your job at a career fair is to show why a company is woefully lacking without you. Knowing what they do helps you to figure out where you’d fit in there, and why they absolutely must give you an interview!

4. Plan Out Questions (and Answers!)

Once you’ve researched the companies (and taken notes that you can review before hitting each booth), you should formulate some questions. This will facilitate conversation between you and the recruiter and will make you look more prepared than your counterparts. If you’re in a sorority, you’ve been down this road with recruitment, and just like you don’t want to be caught in an awkward silence with a PNM, you don’t want to do that with a recruiter! So plan some questions that will give you a sense of:

• What the company is looking for
• How you would fit into the company
• What their hiring policies are
• Whether or not it’s a place you would want to work

(after all, just like recruitment, finding a job is a process of mutual selection!).

Just like you want to find out about the company, the company’s recruiter wants to find out about you. So plan answers to common interview questions like:

• Where do you want your career to take you in 5/10/20 years?
• What sort of position are you looking for?
• What strengths/weaknesses do you have that would make you a good/bad fit for this company?
• What prior experience do you have?

Once you’ve got these planned out, your conversations will be as smooth as can be!

5. Plan Your Outfit

Plan your outfit based on the job you want. Are you looking for a fashion job, or one in a more relaxed and/or creative atmosphere? Then you can get away with a funkier outfit. If you’re looking for something more traditional, then stick with a simple skirt suit. This doesn’t mean that you can’t still show off your own personal style & personality, just do it in a smaller way with a fun (but not too flashy) necklace or bracelet. Also be sure to wear comfortable shoes since you’ll be standing for a while!

6. Bring Notes, a Pen, Confidence and a Smile!

Put the notes you wrote about the companies, your questions, your answers, and your resumes & business cards all in a portfolio. Be sure to bring extra paper and a pen to write notes about what the recruiters talk to you about. Also be sure to have room for all the papers and business cards you’ll get!

Just before you walk in, do something to boost your confidence. You can call someone (like your mom, big sis, roomie, BFF) for some encouraging words or you can listen to your favorite song, but before you talk to the first recruiter, remind yourself how awesome you are! Recruiters are going to be looking at your personality as much as your resume, so let your confident, classy self shine through! Lastly, bring a smile and a positive attitude!

7. Be Open Minded

Even if you’ve scoped out a few key companies that you really like, go talk to as many companies as possible! So it says they’re only looking for engineers? So what! Surely they need other types of people to help keep the company running. The recruiter might not be able to tell you everything about those types of positions, but they’re most likely able to direct you to someone else in the company you can send your resume to. So don’t make excuses that “no one’s offering jobs in your major.” You can always find someone to send your resume to, and even if that booth turns you down, you got practice talking to recruiters and you can move on to the next one!

Now good luck to all of you in your job searches!

Kathryn Moore is a reluctant senior at Georgia Tech majoring in Public Policy.  Since she has yet to find someone who will pay her to be Peter Pan-like and never get out of college, she’s looking for any opportunity for employment!

Preparing for the Job Search Now: Tips for the Savvy Co-Ed

It’s no secret that the economy isn’t great.  (As a recent graduate, I have first-hand knowledge of this!)  As the summer reaches the point where we’re about to get bored, there are things you can do to fill your time now, no matter what stage in your college career to adequately prepare you for getting a “big girl job.”

Here are some ideas from someone currently in the middle of her job search:

• Update your resume. Make sure your resume is up-to-date with all your academic accomplishments, campus involvement and leadership activities, and work-related and volunteer experience.  If you don’t have a lot of work-related experience, include a list of relevant skills and courses related to your intended career.  When you have a completed, updated resume, take it to your campus career center or send it to a professor or mentor to look over.  The more qualified eyes you have look it over and give you suggestions, the better!

• Read, read, read. Read everything and anything you can get your hands on about your chosen career field, current events and professionals in the field, and the job search in general so you are prepared and knowledgeable.  When you can walk into an interview prepared, you look exceptionally qualified to your future employer, and you can learn about what you will need to be successful in your future career.

• …But don’t let yourself get boring. Read for fun, too!  Asking what your favorite book is or the book you’re currently reading is an excellent interview question, and you should have something brilliant and interesting as your answer.  Check out Samantha’s Summer Reading List for some great ideas.  Additionally, stay up-to-date on current events in case it is brought up in an interview as well.  Learn everything you can about the world around you!  It makes you a more well rounded person and essentially, a more well rounded employee.

• Set up informational interviews. Informational interviews can be a great way to network and learn a lot about a career field.  Find a professional in your area and either call or email them to see if you can set up an informational interview for about a half hour.  People love to talk about themselves, so don’t be timid!  When you go in, make sure you have questions prepared for them about their job and how they got there.  This can inspire you for how to go about your future job search!  Make sure to dress professionally to make a good impression, and make sure to follow up with a thank you note.  Who knows where a simple informational interview could end up!  Informational interviews could open up many new possibilities.

• Volunteer. If you don’t have a summer job or internship, spend your time volunteering!  Find an organization in your community that you feel passionate about and find a way to contribute.  This looks great on a resume and can give you some great experience.  It’s a great way to network.  You never know who you will meet volunteering!  Additionally, if you eventually want to work for a non-profit or philanthropic organization, volunteering can give you an in that could lead to a paid position.

Taking the time now to know what you want out of your career and to solidify your goals now is so beneficial for your future!  While the job search can definitely be difficult and scary, it can also be exciting.  Getting started now and making specific goals will make entering the real world a lot less scary, believe me.  : )

Karen Woods is a recent graduate of Millikin University with a degree in Theatre and Communication and a proud member of Delta Delta Delta.  She is currently on the job hunt and wishing she had taken some of her own advice!

CAREER CLOTHES FOR CURVY COEDS

Either graduation is closing in or you are looking to get a part-time job (or even internship!) while still in college – your appearance is always a key component of landing the job.

Here I give you four pieces to add to your closet for those interview days.

This blouse from Lane Bryant is pretty yet professional. It’s dark, neutral coloring works and the ruffles and keyhole design give a pop so it’s not just a boring button down.

* I’d suggest pairing with the pencil skirt or trousers or go with the riding look in the picture and get some tan skinny pants.

The secretary dress from Torrid gives off a classic appeal with a little sexiness thrown in. I’d suggest a white cami underneath to reduce any “peak-a-boo” accidents.

*Show your personality with a red or animal print shoe!

Every girl needs a pencil skirt in her career wardrobe. This one by Torrid is knee-length for modesty and is slim to hug your curves.

*Pair with a bright top or the keyhole blouse.

These trousers by Faith/Forever 21 are my must haves! They are thin material with a classic trouser design that screams professional.

*Throw on with a satin cami and matching blazer or the keyhole blouse.

Though the clothes pictured are plus size, the concepts/tips work for all figures.

Liz is an intern with College Lifestyles (TM). She is a junior print journalism major at Point Park University and a proud sister of Alpha Sigma Tau. She is dying for a pair of the Faith 21 trousers herself!

What Do You Want To Be When You Grow Up?

1. Decide what you want out of your career. Do you want to make a lot of money and have a comfortable lifestyle? Do you want to have flexible hours if you start a family? Do you want to change the world? It’s all up to YOU!

2. Talk to your university’s career counseling/career services. They can connect you with career databases.

3. Take a personality test. You can find these online or with career services. It may sound lame, but it can help you figure out what jobs would NOT work for your individual personality. Examples include Myers-Briggs test (free). http://www.humanmetrics.com/cgi-win/JTypes2.asp

4. Ask your friends, relatives, distant cousins, etc about their jobs, enjoyment factor, etc. Can you see yourself doing same positions?

5. Go to monster.com, browse around, see if there are any jobs that appeal to you.

6. Talk to your professors. They have more insight than you think.

7. Volunteer, even if it’s not related to what you think you want to do. Volunteering is a great chance to step back from your crazy schedule and reassess what you really want to do with your life. The connections you make can set you up for a job after you graduate.

8. Perfect your resume or seek out those who can. Always helps to have someone else read it to check it for spelling errors, alignment, etc. The average recruiter spends 3.25 seconds on your resume. Best to make it count!

9. RESEARCH RESEARCH RESEARCH! This is YOUR career, not your mom’s or your best friend’s.

I have pretty been around the block and back when it comes to picking a major. Granted, I have never actually changed my major since I started college, but I have thought about it several times. These moments of doubt tempted me into the world of indecision, which lead to the research of various careers, which lead to reaffirmation that I chose the right major in the first place! It’s ok to surf the internet and see what’s out there.

The job that you get after graduation is not the job that you will have for the rest of your life. If it takes a while to find your perfect job, then so be it. Remember, life is what you make of it. This includes having a good attitude, healthy body, and great relationships with the people you love.

Majors search at Princeton Review

What Can I do with a Liberal Arts degree?

Occupational Outlook Handbook published by the US Department of Labor. Look up careers, job descriptions, salaries, and anticipated outlook

Career Onestop. Self explanatory! Tips on interviews, how to connect with recruiters, browse occupations, and more.

Christine is a Nutrition Science student at Baylor University. She loves black beans, the elliptical machine, and a little kick of caffeine.