HC Auburn is missing one of our favorite food blogging members this semester, Claire Sullivan. But it’s not without good reason–Claire is living the dream in New York City as an editorial intern at Food Network Magazine! We stole a few minutes from her busy schedule to learn more about her role with Food Network.
Tell us about your internship role at Food Network.I’m the editorial intern, so I work primarily with the editorial department of the magazine. I spend a chunk of time doing research for upcoming stories other editors are working on. Part of my job is staying up to date with ‘food news’ for my weekly pitches to the associate editor. Lucky for me, this involves familiarizing myself with regional/national food blogs and websites during my down time. As an intern, I also run errands for various departments of the magazine. That part might sound boring, but the errands are a great way for me to learn more about the food and market departments of the magazine. Definitely worth it.
How did you go about landing such an awesome internship?!I’m both a foodie and a journalism major, so when one of my professors announced that Food Network Magazine’s managing editor would speak at J-Day, I knew wanted to be there to hear about her career path. The managing editor and Auburn alum, Maria, said she would be happy to talk to anyone after she spoke. I took the opportunity to introduce myself and expressed interest in learning more about careers in the magazine industry through internships. I submitted a cover letter and my resume, then participated in a phone interview.
When did you first develop a passion for food?Before college, I enjoyed cooking on occasion, nothing too serious. I think I became passionate about food when I moved into my first apartment my sophomore year at Auburn. I’m not a huge fan of on-campus dining so I started to rely on recipes from home, Pinterest, blogs, etc. for quick and healthy meal ideas. Since then, I’ve become fascinated with small-scale food production in Auburn. I started a blog about it this fall, and it has shown me that a passion for food can entail so much more than simply wanting to eat a delicious meal.
Have you gotten to meet any of the FN Stars?Not yet, but my fingers are crossed!
Who is your favorite FN Chef?Ina Garten, hands down. She gave up her job at the White House to pursue something she is passionate about, and I have a tremendous amount of respect for that! Her recipes are also practical… I think she does a great job of making some of her more intricate recipes accessible.
What do you miss most about Auburn so far?A few things: my friends, the weather and the tight-knit community.
What’s it like living in NYC?It’s fast-paced. The city is brimming with people and there is so much to do and see. It was definitely an adjustment from fall at Auburn and Christmas break relaxing at home, but I will say food delivery services and my knee-length down coat have eased the transition.
Do you have any advice for other collegiettes about applying for internships?Yes! Put yourself out there. Use the resources Auburn has—from professors to the career center to things like J-Day. I sent my resume to the career center like three times before I submitted it to Food Network Magazine. In terms of gaining experience, taking the initiative and being a self-starter gives you practical knowledge about what you like and don’t like. If Auburn doesn’t have a club or specific major catered to your unique interests, pursue them on your own.
Do you have a favorite recipe right now?One that I do not have an actual recipe for! During my study abroad this summer, I had the most amazing meal consisting of farro, zucchini, cashews and green onions. It resembled veggie fried rice. I have my own little recreation of it that I could eat for days on end.