How can I begin building a writing portfolio for future jobs and internships I would like to apply to?
I am currently a Writing and Journalism major and am unsure as to how to begin building a portfolio for the future. I would like to know how I would begin a process like this and if there's a way I can show my own legitimate writing to professionals when I am still a student. #writing #professional-writing #writing-and-editing #portfolio #journalism
3 answers
Stefania (Mandrin) Revelli, CCSP, CPRW
Stefania’s Answer
Hi Nicole!
Building a portfolio of writing samples is a great idea. There are a few ways you can do this. First, if you are a lover of words, you probably write on your own. Take some time to write a few mock articles or points of view on trends that you are passionate about. Writing on your own and creating original content is always a good way to sample your own writing.
If you have a blog, that's another wonderful way to archive your writing. If you have thoughts or new angles on existing news and trends or areas you are passionate, write them up. Think about writing projects you've done for school projects that you are most proud of as well. Your portfolio will also depend on your target audience. If you are going for a blog -based marketing position, showing up with a case full of academic papers will not be the best way to showcase you are right for the position.
Here are a few sites that enable you to create online portfolios too:
https://thewritelife.com/freelance-portfolio-sites/
https://blog.freelancersunion.org/2014/02/26/5-best-portfolio-sites-writers/
Best of luck to you!
Stefania recommends the following next steps:
Ashley’s Answer
In terms of actual writing, if you have writing experience at a school paper or other publication, be sure to include these. If not, use writing that you may have from writing and journalism classes.
I agree with Stefania about having a blog. You can start a blog on literally anything. If you want to do a writing on a specific topic (music, sports, technology, news, etc.), start a blog about that topic to show employers that you are knowledgeable in those areas.
Ashley recommends the following next steps:
Patty’s Answer
Also, if you're interested in building a portfolio for advertising here are some resources for that:
Ad Schools
Miami Ad School - Two year portfolio program. https://miamiadschool.com/
4 year traditional college program with advertising focus - https://www.byuadlab.com/
Blog about making ads and how to make them good
https://makinads.wordpress.com/
Blog showcasing lots of different portfolios of copywriters. Check out the student portfolios to get a sense of quality of work. Also posts jobs sometimes.
https://www.moderncopywriter.com/
Young Glory
http://www.youngglory.com/
An advertising competition where young creatives can submit ideas according to new challenges they release every month. Don’t have to be a professional to enter. It’s a good place to challenge yourself and workshop new ideas every month.
MAIP - Multicultural advertising internship program
http://www.maipmatters.aaaa.org/home
An internship program you can apply to if you’re a minority. Really great program where real agencies select you with weekly introductions to new agencies.
List of advertising agencies