Not a New Yorker? No problem! One girl’s story of turning her dream into reality—from her hometown!

By Jenna Birch

Like just about every other glamour girl, when I started to develop a love for fabulous fashion, I also developed a desire for the Big Apple.  Even as a twelve-year-old I knew that style lived on Fifth Avenue and worked in Midtown.  At least, that is what I’d always thought.

Growing up in Michigan, NYC wasn’t exactly right next door.  Middle school turned into high school, high school turned into college, and for me college meant finally attending my dream school, which was actually only twenty minutes from my hometown.

Hail to the victors. The leaders and best.  I bled maize and blue. So naturally when it came time to choose a college, my choice was inevitably simple.  I was going to the University of Michigan.  But sadly, my dream of writing for a fashion magazine still seemed way out of reach.

The deal is though, that kind of lit a fire under me.  I don’t back down from challenge or quit when someone tells me my goal is a little preposterous.  I slaved for years as the underappreciated and overworked editor-in-chief of my high school newspaper for a reason: To be able write what I want.  So I set out to find a writing job that didn’t mandate a native New Yorker status.

It all started right here on DFJ.  I stumbled across the site and found a listing for an internship with Front Row View, an online fashion magazine and blog based in the UK.  I submitted a sample article and crossed my fingers.  Luckily after a little waiting, I landed the gig and was able to take my first baby step into the industry.

Writing for Front Row View gave me two incredibly important puzzle pieces for trying to build a career: experience and clips.  I was able to immerse myself in the fashion world, penning trend reports and covering runway shows.  And I also started to stash away my stories in an e-portfolio that would help me secure future positions.

I continued to scour sites that posted writing job leads.  And let me tell you, this takes unparalleled persistence.  There could be a hundred listings with only one or two promising potential employers, and there is no guarantee that they will think you’re a fit for their company, site or magazine.

Don’t get discouraged.  Keep your head up.  When you feel like you’re about to lose it staring at a computer screen until your eyes start to bug out of your head, send in another resume or write another sample.  With a whole lot of hard work, an equal dose of passion and an upbeat attitude, you might just land your dream job.

I did.

The downsides: I’m not in New York City.  I’ve never seen that illusive fashion closet or sipped coffee while overlooking the Manhattan skyline.  I don’t attend events, rub elbows with celebs or conquer the NYC shopping scene after my work is done.

But that’s okay.

The upsides: I’m going to my dream school.  I get to work from home writing about a ton of topics I love.  Fashion (of course), beauty, film, music, decorating, travel—I cover it all, have an absolute ball, and I’m earning money.  There’s nothing wrong with wiping down tables or waiting on customers, but I’d rather do what I love.  I’m writing.  I’m gaining a ton of experience and honing my craft.

And really, I could not ask for anything more than that.

So here’s to you, DFJ-ers.  Here’s to your future endeavors finding the fashion gig you’ve only dreamt about.  I hope this serves as some inspiration to make your hearts and goals soar a little higher.  No matter your address, you can make it happen.  From Milan to Minnesota, fashion capitols to unknown streets.  It’s not about where you are.  It’s about knowing where you want to go.

About the Author
Jenna is a student at the University of Michigan studying English and political science.  She has many loves; Chanel, The Great Gatsby, obsessively watching tennis on TV and enjoying loads of movies, everything from indie flicks to rom-coms and blockbusters.  She also loves history—having always been fascinated by ancient civilizations and biblical studies—and is active in her Christian faith.  Jenna is a fashion columnist for AND Magazine, and still contributes to Front Row View.  She is currently pursuing other freelance opportunities with a variety of publications.  One day she would love to move to NYC and work at a seriously awesome fashion magazine.  Until then, she will settle for attending the greatest university in the world where she can hone her craft and fervently cheer on her wolverines.  While constantly writing at any chance she gets, of course.

Visit Jenna on her blog Seven Style Notes and check out some of her columns for AND Magazine.