Tell us a little about yourself and your experience.

Amy Sciarretto, 2.5 yrs as loud rock editor at CMJ; 12 years in radio + PR at Roadrunner. Onetime Sirius Hard Attack DJ, Revolver black/death + hardcore columnist, SPIN.com writer, Kerrang writer, Guitar World writer, Teen People writer, Bustle writer.... and that's just quickly off the top of my head.

What drove you to choose your career path?

My older brother. He took me to see AC/DC when I was like 7. I used to listen to Journey and Aldo Nova on headphones with him. He influenced me to get into music early. 

How did you go about getting your job? What kind of education and experience did you need?

I majored in English, minored in psych and writing. I did everything from intern to write for local mags to run my college radio station. I wrote a book about this, actually. Do The Devil's Work For Him, co-authored by Rick Florino. Google it. 

What do you actually spend the majority of your time doing?

Working/publicizing... sending emails, pitching, following up, then following up some more.

What misconceptions do people often have about your job?

That it's a 24/7 party. That I say no just 'cuz. Just like someone at Apple or Google or Starbucks, I have bosses to answer to.

What are your average work hours?

Ha! 24/7. It's a lifestyle. Get that 2am phone call when weather conditions on a major summer tour means Slipknot has to move MTV interviews from Nor Cal to So Cal in less than 24 hours and your flight needs to change now so you can get there and cover it and make sure it goes off without a hitch. Yes, that actually happened.

What personal tips and shortcuts have made your job easier?

You have to know what battles to pick, what to take seriously and what to have humor about. And there is a simple adage. It's nice to be important, but it's important to be nice. That goes both ways.

What do you do differently from your coworkers or peers in the same profession?

No one responds to emails faster than me! I can only speak for me, and not compare myself to others. I am tenacious and I won't give up on a pitch just bc someone doesn't get it at first.

Do you have any advice for people who need to enlist your services?

Hmm... don't be a punisher. But I say that to EVERYONE! 

What's the worst part of the job and how do you deal with it?

When you believe in something and can't get someone to see your vision. 

What's the most enjoyable part of the job?

Working with artists I love and believe in. I see how "the kids" react to these bands live and in person, and that erases all the headaches.

What kind of money can one expect to make at your job?

That depends... 

How do you move up in your field?

Working long hours, by doing solids, and by getting the job done by any means necessary.

What advice would you give to those aspiring to join your profession? 

Love what you do; fuck the rest.