Finding the Ideal Creative Writing Internship

Lawanda Johnson is a 22-year old senior at the University of Baltimore. Majoring in English with a specialization in Creative Writing, she has interned at several local newspapers and magazines. Currently she is the music columnist for Limerence Magazine and is working on her debut novel, Second Chance.

By Lawanda Johnson

Being a senior in college it’s almost mandatory to complete an internship. As an English major, it was difficult finding the right internship for what I wanted to do and learn. I wanted something that could lead to a  job I’d ideally want after graduation. When looking at other internships, I noticed assignments were limited. If the position listed was for editorial, as an intern I’d work only on editorial assignments. But I wanted more.

I researched magazines and newspapers in the Greater Baltimore area, as well as online companies who were seeking writers, bloggers, editors, or assistants. Some I applied to just were  not the right fit for me – I wanted an experience where I’d have more hands on experience. That’s when I came across an internship as a music columnist with a new online magazine, Limerence Magazine. It had many of the qualities I was looking for in an internship, so I  applied. It was a good match, because I landed it!

At Limerence, I was able to find my niche. I’m able to make my own decisions with regards to which topics I covered. I’m not just assigned a topic and then asked to write a report or article about. I do my own research and searched for artists I’m interested in and who are a great feature for Limerence Magazine.

The internship is a great fit for me. I am well-rounded and get to work an a variety of assignments. I’m able to write my column, learn some marketing skills through social media, and I am able to edit my fellow co-workers’ articles and interviews. On top of that, I’ve enhanced my communication, computer and interpersonal skills all by working at this internship.

Limerence Magazine provides a great internship environment for college students. Students definitely become versatile afterwards. All writers and staff members are able to be themselves, learn exciting lessons about the publishing world and apply those skills hands on. This to me is very important and I have gotten so much from being part of this internship.

Thanks Lawanda, this sounds like an excellent internship experience. Limerence Magazine is currently looking to add more interns to their team – creative writing, webcomics and editorial.