Job Title / Job Description

Green Activist / Freelancer / Former Magazine Editor

I am a former magazine editor; now working on horticultural projects in NYC via grants. As a magazine editor I wrote & produced visuals for stories and columns, edited manuscripts, sought out new products related to our focus, attended industry events & trade shows, created partnerships for advertisers. As a green activist, I write grants for garden & park projects, produce the events with volunteers, participate as a member of various local boards, and work on corporate volunteer projects.

What are some related career opportunities and job titles in your company or in your career area?

Most magazines have intern programs, a great way to get a foot in the door - go after magazines that are of interest topic wise - anything to get some experience, even a local newspaper. Volunteer work in the green area is a great way to get a job - many successful people I know have started as volunteers because they love the work.

What new technology will be important?

A better-for-the-environment slant is only going to grow (no pun intended) and urban gardening is taking advantage of social networking to build interest in projects that help the environment and the community. Most corporations have a department to look after their green footprint - and new technologies are a great part of this.

What education or training did you have to prepare for this career?

Working in a busy photo studio gave me the skills to handle many different tasks at once - being flexible and having people skills along with creative thinking & problem solving translates into making you a valuable employee.

What education or training do you recommend for students today who want to enter this field?

Strong writing & research skills and the ability to look critically at the task at hand & figure out the best solutions, creatively thinking to come up with good ideas, and the ability to work well in a group - all help with a busy & varied career.

When you were in high school, did you know that you would enter this field?

I always loved to write, research, interview - and work with others in a creative way. The incredible variety of work on a magazine takes advantage of these skills - though in high school I only knew I wanted to be creative.