FOOD CRITIC

The great news is that there are no degrees given in the area of food criticism. To enter this line of work, continually work on your writing and knowledge of food. You may think about joining the school newspaper and review restaurants for it. Also, consider interning (working for free to gain experience) part-time at a local newspaper or television show that reviews food regularly. Try a few sample reviews on your own, and see what the local newspaper's or magazine's editor thinks. This is a good way to get solid and honest feedback on your writing. Food critics usually write for the “Weekend” or “Lifestyles” sections of newspapers. See if there is a local public-access television food show in your area—this could be another source of experience and information for the future.

If none of these avenues are open to you, take a trip to your local library and browse through cookbooks and books on food. Subscribe to a food magazine and read its reviews, or watch food shows on cable channels devoted to food. The key is to get involved in this industry early. You may want to try cooking exotic foods at home or experimenting with gutsy choices at nearby restaurants. Try as many different types of food as possible to expand your palette. Most important, these are all fun ways to learn about a prospective job.

Remember, if people like their jobs, they usually like to talk about them. Go to a television station or newspaper. Contact a food critic via e-mail and ask him or her questions about his or her job. The critic may know about employment opportunities or may be able to advise you on how to get started.