Yasmin in New York
Say yes to your dreams!
Again, I write to you from New York City. But today is a little different, for today is the day before I start full-time work, writing about food for an American magazine. When I left for New York, I could only dream that I would get a job here, and I still can hardly believe it!
Whenever I’m asked about my work, the next question is often “And
how can I get that job?” Most people envision free meals and endless
eating. I try to quell those hopes. It is true that there is no such thing as
a free lunch. Endless eating plays havoc with the waistline, your health
and your mealtimes. However, for those who are serious about throwing
their spoon into the pot and trying to enter the food-writing game, here
are the three things that I found most useful.
Write In 2005 I was lucky enough to get the chance to write about food for Ciao, and it’s an opportunity that has opened doors across the globe. On-the-job experience with a real publication helps you understand word count, topics and deadlines like no course can. (That said, I’m still learning about deadlines...) There I met many of the wonderful people – especially the people who make food, sell food and serve food for a living. I also got the chance to share their stories, which has been truly rewarding. So, write. For whoever or whatever will take you. A good place to start is by writing a blog.
Meet people Americans have perfected the art of ‘networking’.
Basically that involves meeting as many people as possible and handing
out business cards. It may seem, and sometimes is, quite artifi cial, but
it has benefits. Sure you may meet ten people who you never want to
see again, but every now and then you happen across someone lovely
and fun to be around. When that happens you’re lucky enough to have
a new friend who can help you out in the job front.
Say yes It’s well documented that you should say yes to opportunity. But I want to add that it’s important to say yes to your dreams. My life is about to get a little more hectic now, so unfortunately you won’t see me on these pages as often. It’s going to be very strange not to document my food life every two weeks for Ciao, but you will find me at www.aboutthefood.com where I write about food, travel and life in a different Big City. Ciao, for now xox. – Yasmin Sabir
Yas has been writing for Ciao since Issue #1.
She’s now working full time as Associate Food Editor at
Woman’s Day in New York. Thank you Yas!