I loved my brief stint as a member of the press. Although I was just an editorial assistant, I was treated like royalty. Free food, free books and access to great events. I even got to fly to Switzerland, business class, to tour a chocolate factory. While my experience may have been unusual (I hear most entry-level writers and interns spend their time photocopying), being a member of the press certainly has its advantages.
I recently read about a food and travel internship being offered at ModernLuxury in Los Angeles that sounds like a great opportunity to try this press lifestyle out. It looks like you would be doing much more than making coffee. The job description is as follows (via FoodieUniverse):
“America’s leading publisher of luxury lifestyle magazines is offering an internship for a food-savvy writer (or eloquent gourmand) to work alongside one of America’s top food critics and travel editors. This is an excellent chance to learn the ropes of restaurant criticism and travel writing and to gain valuable experience at a national publishing company. Based on performance, the intern might have the opportunity to write bylined articles for one or more of the company’s award-winning glossy magazines. This is a nonpaid internship lasting 3 to 6 months, but, for the right candidate, could lead to paid assignments upon completion of the term.
Absolute Requirements
- Keen understanding of fine dining, restaurants, and food
- Excellent writing skills (writing test required)
- Excellent editing skills (must pass difficult editing test)
- Excellent communication/interpersonal skills
- Must be able to think quickly and multitask in a fast-paced, deadline-oriented atmosphere
- Must be available to work in our L.A. office 2 days per week (some telecommuting possible)
- Minimum 3 months committment, preferably 6 months
- Reliable transportation and personal laptop computer with WiFi or broadband connectivity. Mac a plus.
- Familiarity with Word and Excel a must; Quark, Pagemaker and Photoshop a plus.
Responsibilities:
- Editing and fact-checking articles for publication
- Filing, organizing, and general clerical duties
- Assisting the editor with work-related errands and projects, organizing photo shoots, etc.
- Food and travel assignments, based on performance and drive.
Qualified applicants only should send a resume and cover letter, explaining why you are the right person for this internship, along with two journalistic writing samples to askbrad@modernluxury.com or by fax to 323.930.9401.
NO PHONE CALLS, PLEASE.”
Good luck!
So are you entering?
That sounds so cool! In India food writing in magazines is more of a hit or miss. Articles are handed in by traveling hausfraus on their yearly vacation and paid months later. Very few gourmands around.
I know a great place you could stay in LA, plus I’m sure we could arrange for some very reliable transportation!
i think excellent eating skills should also be a requirement.
Debbie is not the only one who knows of great places to stay in L.A. I know of a place that offers lots of amenities that would meet your every need.