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I am taking a class on magazine writing that is going to require I immerse myself in my subject - I am petrified about having to approach and convince someone to let me "tail them". Does anyone have any advice about the best ways - the least intimidating ways - to choose a topic and not chicken out following through. I've always written more personal essays or news articles. I need to find courage somewhere and any help would be appreciated. Thanks

Since it sounds like you're a college student, I would suggest going to career services at your school (if that's what they call it!) and ask if there are any alumni in the field that you want to focus on. I did the same thing a few months ago and one of the counselors set me up with a list of emails and where each person on the list was working. From there I was able to email them personalized questions, but in your case you could politely ask if they would be willing to allow you to shadow them. Shadowing is great because you can see the subject in their natural environment, but you still have time to interview them on specific questions. Just put yourself out there, the worst they can do is say no!

Heh - haven't been in college in years - but I'd like to think I just come across as youthful/1 I think I can adapt your suggestion, though - thank you!

Well, you certainly fooled me!

Best of luck!

Thanks - the class I'm taking is not through a college - thus the who throwing off thing!

In terms of the subject matter, what tends to make writing something feel intimidating is thinking about the negative reactions other people will have to what you have written. A way to lower this felling is to write about something you consider less controversial or to write more about factual information and less on your opinion about the subject. This may free you to take part without reservations.