Love writing about all things lez/bi/queer? Studying journalism or looking to break into the industry? We got you.
BY DIVA STAFF
Did you know that DIVA offers work experience placements to journalism students and those interested in pursuing a career in the media? Here’s what a few of our work experience alums had to say about their time with us…
What would you say to someone interested in doing work experience with DIVA?
“Put yourself out there and give it a go! Everyone is really welcoming and supportive and it’s definitely a worthwhile experience. No other work experiences have given me this much responsibility and made me feel more like a writer than just an intern, and I think thats the best way to learn!” – Ella, July 2021
“From day one, and even before that, the DIVA team is extremely welcoming and helpful. So, whether you’re a confident journalist or just starting out in the industry, your work experience is guaranteed to be both pleasant and useful.” – Polly, June 2021
“I would recommend it without a doubt! If you’re genuinely interested in telling LGBTQI stories, your time at DIVA will be nothing but a pleasure as you get to delve into subjects you feel passionate about. It is also worth mentioning that the DIVA team is very supportive and welcoming, and you get the opportunity to take on varied tasks. Overall, it is a great way to deepen your understanding of the magazine industry at the same time as exploring your own interests.” – Martine, May 2021
“Working with DIVA was an immersive and engaging experience. The editorial team were fantastic at making me feel supported while challenging me to push myself outside of my comfort zone, encouraging me to learn about all aspects of magazine production. Work experience with DIVA allowed me to get as much out of my time as possible, giving me the confidence to further my ambitions.” – Nadia, January 2021
“Do not think, just do it. It’s an amazing experience where you’ll get to meet amazing journalists and work for such a great magazine. There is no other magazine like DIVA, so you’ll have such a unique experience. I wish my time here was a lot longer, because it’s just such a fun place to work and you can sense how happy people are to be here. Overall, the best thing it did for me was give me confidence in my work with the help of the fabulous DIVA staff.” – Charlie, March 2020
“Absolutely go for it! I got a lot out of it and couldn’t recommend it enough. And if you don’t hear back for a while, don’t be discouraged – I heard back months after I applied and was scheduled for work experience a year after I sent my application in – but I got there in the end.” – Yaiza, July 2019
“Do it! It was a really good opportunity for someone interested in the writing side of the magazine industry, there were lots of chances to develop writing skills, and the staff at DIVA were all super friendly and helpful! :)” – Rachel, June 2019
“I would tell them they’ll have a pretty (queer) exciting experience. It’s also good for someone who wants to hone their skills or apply them in a real-life environment :)” – Bea, May 2019
“If you have a genuine interest in LGBTQ news, trends and issues and want to work in the media (particularly magazine journalism) then absolutely go for a placement at DIVA. It’s been a lot of fun researching and writing about something that’s always interested me and it’s given me a real taste of what it would be like to work full-time for a magazine. They’re a small but lovely team and there are lots of opportunities to bring your own ideas to the table and through to published piece. What are you waiting for?” – Danielle, 2017
Sounds great! How do I apply?
To apply, send us your CV together with a covering letter confirming that you are eligible for work experience with DIVA (see our essential policy guidelines below) and outline why you would like to do your work experience with us.
You should also include an original article of up to 400 words, which you have written to appeal to DIVA’s online audience. (Keep in mind that applications that do not demonstrate a clear understanding of DIVA’s editorial intention and audience demographic will not be considered).
Remember to date your covering letter and tell us when you are available for your placement. It is advisable to give at least two months’ notice of your preferred dates and an alternative period if possible.
Send your application with the subject line WORK EXPERIENCE to nic@diva-magazine.com
Please note that, due to the Covid-19 pandemic, all work experience placements will be conducted remotely until further notice.
Policy on DIVA work experience placements
The company recognises that work experience placements can be of benefit to both the business and the individual and it is committed to ensuring the placement is a positive one for the person undertaking work experience.
The company is committed to the principle of equal opportunities to all regardless of age, sex, race, ethnic origin, nationality, religious belief, marital status, gender identification, sexual orientation, HIV status or disability. All application for placements will be treated equally.
Considerable time and care is taken to ensure that applicants genuinely gain knowledge and benefit from their time with us and this is supported by a comprehensive feedback process, though do be aware that the DIVA team is small and you will be required to work individually (but with supervision) at times.
Many successful work experience applicants have cited their time with us as a major contribution to personal career advancement and some have even gone on to work with us professionally after qualifying.
Terms & Conditions
1. Work experience opportunities are offered on a strictly non-payment basis, however the company recognises that with student debt and genuine hardship a small travel or expense allowance may be required. Such requests would be considered on an individual basis and in exceptional circumstances may be granted at the sole discretion of a company director. This is subject to the considerable budgetary constraints of the publication and would be agreed in writing beforehand.
2. Placements are accepted on the understanding that you are currently undertaking related educational studies or research.
3. Placements are normally for a period of one to two weeks up to a maximum total placement of four weeks.
4. Due to the nature of the business work experience applicants must be 18 or over. Proof of age will be required.
5. In very exceptional circumstances applicants under 18, but over the age of 16 may be considered, provided parental consent is obtained or it is within a scheme arranged by the Local Educational Authority. Due to the additional administration, closer supervision and mentoring required, there is no guarantee that such a placement will be possible.
6. The company reserves the right to terminate a placement at its own discretion and at any point without notice.
Only reading DIVA online? You’re missing out. For more news, reviews and commentary, check out the latest issue. It’s pretty badass, if we do say so ourselves.
One thought on “Everything you need to know about work experience at DIVA”