As a photographer, Amanda Cohen has lived in New York City and worked for Conde Nast Traveler and Hearst Magazines.
But the first photo class she ever took was two years ago.
If there were ever an example of “dreams don’t work unless you do,” Cohen would be it. A self-taught photographer at the age of 17, she is now in her fifth year here at UF, pursuing a journalism degree specializing in photojournalism and minoring in women’s studies.
She wants to travel the world, and she wants to take her camera with her.
When she first got the call from Conde Nast, she was honored and humbled. She would take on a three-day per week internship in the heart of New York and photography itself. She packed her things and picked out an apartment.
Then, on a whim, she applied to Hearst as well. You never know, she thought.
Her phone rang. And before she knew it, she’d be working as an intern with the legendary publishing corporation too. “Studio D” they called it, the in-house photo studio for all of Hearst Magazines.
“It was a whirlwind,” Cohen said. “At first it was both scary and exhilarating. Soon enough it became a routine I was proud to undertake.”
As an outsider, it reads like fate. Not one but two amazing opportunities, when just yesterday she was in Gainesville, applying for them because, well, you never know.
“It was extremely challenging at times – especially balancing a Magazine and Feature Writing online class with two 8-hour a day, 5 days a week internships, and socializing – but well worth it,” Cohen said.
Now that she’s back in the Swamp – back to reality – she’s finishing up her degree. She once worked at the Independent Florida Alligator and the Fine Print, snapping shots and getting cutline info. Now she’s taking some of her last classes and mapping out her future.
“Photography is a medium for me to express life’s beauty,” Cohen said.
After this, she hopes to tackle some photojournalism projects, which will let her visually represent the “contrast between reality and fantasy.”
She sees herself trekking through India documenting the beauty and misery of its people.
Cohen said college has taught her many things, but it has given her confidence.
She offered advice for younger women: Don’t stress, and above all things, believe in yourself.
“Don’t be afraid of change – challenge yourself, and be a dream chaser,” Cohen said. “I had six majors before I decided on journalism. Take your time, and find out who you are and what you love.”