Paulina Albarracin is an M.A. candidate in the Magazine and Digital Storytelling program and a contributor at QNS. Born and raised in Queens, NY, she enjoys reporting in The World’s Borough, covering topics ranging from community events to feature stories on small businesses. Her work has
also appeared in Brooklyn Paper and Cooper Squared.

Q: You've been publishing regularly with QNS, covering all things Queens — restaurants, events, the marathon, and more. Can you tell us how you started writing with them? 

A: I started writing with QNS after wanting to pitch the first profile that I wrote in Writing and Reporting Workshop I on Kevin Montalvo and the Queens Marathon. I received the former Editor-in-Chief’s contact information from Whitney and emailed her my final draft (and resume for a potential spring internship). After reviewing both documents, she not only published the profile but also offered an internship placement in January. Since then, it’s been quite the adventure!

Q:  What was the pitching process like when you started? And how has it changed the more you've written with them?

A: My initial pitching process involved emailing the Editor-in-Chief. When I became their new intern, I sent over my pitches via Slack. Nowadays, I submit potential story ideas I would like to work on in one of their Slack channels and receive approval from there. They appreciate my ideas, so I usually get green-lit.

Q: What did you learn during the editing process?

A: Because this was my first-ever journalism internship, I learned so much about the fundamentals of writing news stories from the former Editor-in-Chief. After I filed my stories, she would write back with constructive feedback, which aided my growth as a local journalist. The feedback included essential suggestions, ranging from story structure to research methods. My colleagues have also offered helpful advice, further sharpening my storytelling approach.

Q: What did you learn during the pitching and publishing process that you think would be helpful to other journalists looking to get their work published? 

A: As far as your stories are not only Queens-related, but also stories that are of importance to locals, your pitches will be considered. When I first started, I also had my pitches heard in their editorial meetings. I made sure to be persistent about the stories that I wanted to share, especially those that concern community events and innovative locals who contribute to the beauty of our borough. Overall, be genuine in your storytelling and have a sharp nose for news.