Q. I am a junior college student currently looking for an internship in copy editing.
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Although I have experience writing for a number of different publications (weeklies, school papers, yearbooks, online, etc.), I can't seem to land an internship at a daily newspaper, which I know is critical.
I also understand that copy editing is not one of the most glamorous or popular fields among college journalism students and internship seekers, but I am still a bit unclear as to what dailies look for in an applicant for a copy editing internship. I have a strong knowledge of
AP style, and I know I would do quite well given the chance, but my lack of experience is killing me.
What do I need to do to land a copy editing internship?
Thank you,
Oxford, Mich.A. Your question is very timely.
For students in the know, October and November are
the key months to apply for internships. Later may be too late.
In part because of the glamor factor you mention, the supply of copy editors does not very frequently meet the demand.
Take advantage of that by stating your desire to be a copy editor at the beginning of your cover letter and by putting it as your objective on your resume. Then, demonstrate your qualifications by making sure that both the resume and cover letter are correct to the last comma and AP style rule.
Also -- and this is very important -- apply for a
Dow Jones Newspaper Fund copy editing internship. The DJNF is looking especially for people who have just completed their junior or senior year, or who are in graduate school. A DJNF internship is a solid gold credential. It would also bring you a paid editing internship, intense training and a $1,000 scholarship when you return to school in the fall.
The deadline is Nov. 1. You can practice on
tests that I have posted, dating back 10 years. I suggest you also visit the Web site of the
American Copy Editors Society for news, practice tests and the latest word on opportunities.
Grimm on internships:
"Breaking In: The JobsPage.com Guide to Newspaper Internships."
Coming Thursday: She is being courted by an outside company but thinks it is far too early for her editors to find out about that. She wants to protect herself.
