Pros
- one of the few English-language media opportunities in Berlin if you’re early career
- some free event perks
- office location near an amazing banh mi spot
- clips here and there
Cons
Have never worked in a more astoundingly unprofessional/toxic office environment, so much so that now, two years after my tenure there, I thought about it today and was inspired to finally write this review. Interns are expected to endure long hours and constant berating from upper editorial staff in exchange for zero pay (because that’s just how the industry works, right??) and a handful of 400-500 word clips. Management seemed to delight in humiliating interns in front of everyone, sometimes pushing people to tears. What’s more, the EIC would regularly demean and shout at her (paid) editorial staff over petty quibbles or issues w/ production. I have worked unpleasant media jobs before but never have I felt so physically ill before going into work every day. This is not normal, nor is it what you should expect and endure for a career in writing or journalism! To be fair, this was two years ago and maybe the office has undergone a radical change—but judging by the top of the current masthead, I doubt it. Young journalists, please spare yourself the hassle and freelance or find work elsewhere. You deserve better!