If you flip through the pages of Teen People magazine, you might see an article written by Lindsay Goldenberg, a former University of Memphis student who graduated in December 2000.
Although she is only 24 years old, Goldenberg has already worked for Rolling Stone, one of the most prestigious music magazines in the world. But she didn’t always dream of interviewing musicians or attending glamorous award shows like the GRAMMYs. In fact, Goldenberg stumbled into the journalism field by accident.
When Goldenberg enrolled at The U of M, she dreamed of becoming an art history major. After several discussions with her professors, they directed her toward The Daily Helmsman.
“I never thought journalism was even an option. But after talking to Candy Justice (the general manager of The Daily Helmsman) and seeing how the newspaper worked, I really thought that this was something that I could do,” Goldenberg said.
Goldenberg said she believed she could use her love of writing and her investigative skills to create interesting news stories for The U of M daily student newspaper.
“I have always loved writing. I had always written short stories and poems, so I thought it would be a good outlet to express myself,” Goldenberg said. “I also love investigating stories, so I thought the two would work really well together.”
Shortly after beginning her career at The Helmsman, Goldenberg realized that her knack for writing could lead to a future career in journalism. She worked hard to create interesting news stories that could lead to internships.
“I really just tried to put myself out there while working at The Daily Helmsman,” Goldenberg said. “I would always try to go a step above and get stories that weren’t necessarily concentrated just for a college newspaper but could be for a regular newspaper, as well, so that I could get really good clips to send out to major newspapers.”
During her sophomore year, Goldenberg began mailing her news clips and applying for internships to publications around the country. Despite some rejections, she refused to give up. Goldenberg repeatedly called and faxed employers regarding her internship applications.
“I called and harassed them. I would send harassing, but nice faxes. I was like, ‘You need me in your internship program, and I have a lot to offer,’” Goldenberg said.
Goldenberg’s persistence paid off. After sending numerous faxes, she earned an internship at Reader’s Digest. She said she always tried to prove to employers that she was more than capable of being a good journalist.
“Whoever I met when I was in Memphis or New York completing internships, I would always try to show my best side and show them that I was dedicated to the field,” Goldenberg said. “And I think that, in turn, gave me a lot of opportunities.”
The next summer Goldenberg’s dedication and persistence led to an internship with Rolling Stone magazine.
Unlike many college graduates, she didn’t have to worry about finding a job after college. Immediately following her graduation, Goldenberg was off to Manhattan to begin a career as an editorial assistant for Rolling Stone.
“I drove up to Manhattan with my parents the day after I graduated. I started work at Rolling Stone that following Tuesday, and I haven’t stopped working since,” Goldenberg said.
While at the prestigious magazine, Goldenberg wrote several small stories, in addition to filling up water bottles and answering phones.
“I did a lot of grunt work, but that’s where everyone has to start out in magazines. It kind of stinks, but it teaches you to work really hard,” Goldenberg said.
After nearly two years with Rolling Stone, she moved on to a new publication that focuses on teen issues. Goldenberg is currently a staff writer for Teen People magazine. She said she has always been interested in the problems that affect teenagers.
“I wanted to be a part of a magazine that made more of a difference. I love dealing with kids and trying to adhere to what they want to read and finding out what entertains them,” Goldenberg said.
So far, Goldenberg has covered the GRAMMYs, the MTV Music Video Awards and other major entertainment events. She recently interviewed one of the stars of Fox’s “That 70s Show.”
“I got to talk to Ashton Kutcher a couple of weeks ago, and he was really funny. When you get those good interviews it really makes your day,” Goldenberg said.
Although she graduated from The U of M only three years ago, Goldenberg has already established herself as a dedicated journalist. Her success proves that with determination, anyone can succeed in today’s job market.
With graduation rapidly approaching, Goldenberg offered some advice to upcoming U of M graduates of all majors.
“College is one of the best times of your life,” she said. “Have fun, but work hard because college can determine what you want to do for the rest of your life.
“Definitely do what you want and don’t be afraid to change your mind or your major at the last minute. That’s what college is there for. It is kind of like a blue-print for the rest of your life.”
