Once I saw the list of participating magazines, I knew I wanted to be paired with Parents because 1. Chandra Turner is my idol and 2. toys were mentioned in the job description. Lucky for me, it all worked out! And yes, I play with the best toys of 2017.

 

Although this might sound cliché, I never have a “normal day” at the office. I’m the only editorial intern, and so I report to several editors from different departments. One day, I could be researching food trends on Instagram, and the next I could be pitching cover lines for the September issue. Still, I try to maintain a morning routine.

 

When I arrive to the office, I compile a list of daily news events and recent studies about mothers and young children. After my supervisor approves the list, I send it to the rest of the editors. I really enjoy this task because it gives me the opportunity to learn more about the magazine and its target audience. Plus, it sometimes inspires story ideas!  

 

The rest of the day, I take desk sides, attend run-throughs and follow up on assignments. My favorite assignment so far involved a lot of planning. For two days, we asked kids to visit the Meredith office and test toys. In preparation for the event, I helped research, track and assemble hundreds of toys. If you haven’t already, check out the Facebook Live video on the magazine’s page. We basically transformed the studio into a Toys “R” Us store.

 

On slower days, I listen to the magazine’s podcast, Pregnancy Confidential, which features stories and advice from senior editors. They cover everything from morning sickness to gender reveals. After each episode, I walk away with a new, interesting fact. (Apparently, at week 14, a baby is the size of a racquetball.)

 

In just a few more weeks, I’ll be heading back to Syracuse University where I study magazine journalism and political science. Although I’m excited to return, I’m more excited to graduate this December. The ASME program has definitely prepared me for life after basketball games and three-day weekends.