For those of you who haven’t heard about The Buzz, it is a student run lifestyle magazine that comes out once a semester. Michelle Gattenio, an advertising major in COM, has been the editor-in-chief since last spring. Now, The Buzz is getting ready to send its fifth issue to print and is filled with some exciting content that is unique to BU and Boston. We got to sit down with the editor-in-chief herself to hear more about the magazine and her role in the process.
How did you first get involved with The Buzz?
As a freshman, I heard about The Buzz from my COM 101 class and thought it sounded interesting. I joined the layout team that first semester and never looked back.
What makes The Buzz different from other BU publications?
Well The Buzz is unique in the fact that it is a purely student run lifestyle publication. Every aspect from research, to layout, to writing, to photography, to advertising is done by students. I’m most proud of the fact that the magazine does not get BU funding so the publication process gives the staff very real life experience, because without successful advertising/public relations and great content, there would be no magazine.
What are some of your responsibilities?
As editor-in-chief I have tons of little jobs. I schedule and run meetings, layout the calendar, approve all content/layouts, send a TON of emails, and then fill in on any other tasks that need to be done, while acting as a face for the magazine and staff.
What can we expect to see in issue 5 and when does it come out?
This semester’s issue is going to be the best one yet, considering we only get better with age. Since we decided to get rid of overarching themes on the issues, this will be a much more well-rounded Buzz than readers are used to seeing. We still kept all the sections, but gave them more freedom in choosing topics to write about, while also adding a sports/wellness section to the mix. This issue will have stories varying from a BU Man vs. Food Challenge, to perfect date spots around the city, to the local band profiles, and fashion spreads that our readers have come to expect and love in the issues.
Issue 5 goes to print in early November and will be hot off the presses ready to be sold in the GSU Link for $2 November 28th-December 2nd.
What is your favorite part about the magazine?
My favorite part is by far the day the magazines arrive in the mail, and opening the first box and actually being able to see the new issue in print in its full form. Even though I’ve seen all the photos and stories hundreds of times already, and know exactly what it will look like, there is no better feeling than actually holding the finished product and being able to share the staff’s hard work with everyone.