English & Communication Major Interns with Pittsburgh Magazine & Westmoreland County Blind Association
By Paige Parise
As an English and communication double major, writing for the Pittsburgh Magazine seemed like the perfect opportunity.
I learned about the possibility from my friend Calli Arida (SHU 18), a former Pittsburgh Magazine intern. After a few phone interviews, I was thrilled to be offered a summer editorial internship with Jessica Sinichak, Pittsburgh Magazine’s home editor.
"I received helpful, constructive feedback from the editors that improved my writing skills."
Throughout the summer I wrote articles for the magazine’s home section. Many of my articles appeared on Nest, the home and lifestyle section of Pittsburgh Magazine’s website. I covered a wide variety of topics within the home industry, from a home renovation in Upper St. Clair to an online platform called Paintzen launching in Pittsburgh.
Two of my articles also appeared in Pittsburgh Magazine’s fall 2018 home issue. “Q&A: Advice from a Property Diva,” featured my interview with real estate agent Lauren Klein. “On Trend: Holiday House Tours, Zen Painting and the Joy of Cookies,” highlighted events and trends in the Pittsburgh home industry.
I take pride in seeing my name in the byline, and I’m grateful that I was given the responsibility to write articles for publication. The Pittsburgh Magazine staff trusts and respects the interns. I received helpful, constructive feedback from the editors that improved my writing skills. I couldn’t have asked for a better experience to apply my knowledge and learn from professionals.
When I wasn’t in Pittsburgh this summer, I worked at the Westmoreland County Blind Association. (I had interned there in the spring.) I continued to assist with fundraising and communications, promoting a golf outing and creating a summer newsletter.
I’m continuing to build up my experience during my senior year. I’m an intern with the Seton Hill marketing department and co-editor-in-chief of Seton Hill’s student news publication, the Setonian. I'm also a drumline captain with the Griffin Marching Band. With graduation approaching in May, I’m grateful for all of the valuable learning experiences that have helped prepare me for a career as a writer.