I'm a paid intern at a monthly magazine, and my editor recently asked me if I was interested in extending my position. I have been with the company for seven months now, and as an intern, that's three months longer than most.

My editor allowed me to stay with the company longer than initially agreed because she and the other employees believe that I am a dedicated worker with a lot of ambition. I enjoy the experience, and I have developed friendships with several co-workers. I've been told the pay for full-time employees is good, too.

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After my editor asked me if I was interested in staying, an employee, just below the editor, approached me and said she suggested that [the editor] hire me as a regular employee. The company hired people still in college in the past, so I know it could be possible.

There's a catch, though. I began studying journalism because I love hard news. I find breaking stories exciting. But the magazine focuses on soft features. It steers clear of most current events, especially politics. Oftentimes, the subjects we write about bore me.

My initial plan was to graduate with three or more internships to put on my resume. But assuming the possibility at my current one, I'm wondering if I should forget about other internships and take a real position. After all, I'm always hearing stories about journalism graduates hopelessly searching for jobs.

In the end, I know I couldn't spend my entire journalism career at this magazine. When I move on, would it look better to already have a real position (or a long internship), or would it look better to have several internships at hard-news sources?

Thanks for the help,

Michael

Fear the velvet coffin.

That is a cushy job that is comfortable, but you will die in it because you cannot get out.

Joe Grimm

Internships are for learning. If this position detours your career off course, that can be just as bad as having trouble finding a job. Keep your eye on the prize, and take steps toward reaching it.

If this magazine is likely to take you away from your goal -- and especially if you are already getting bored with some of the work your editors are having you do -- I would stick with your original plan by finishing school and getting some experience in areas you prefer to work in.

Your work at this magazine has turned into a springboard for other things that are more in sync with your interests and perhaps your talents. Use it that way.

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Coming Thursday: She loves, loves, loves her job at a small newspaper, but the wages are killing her. She has had other jobs she hated and doesn't want to leave this one, but she needs a raise.

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