Unemployed Graduate to Twitter Jockey; Gabi Gregg Makes Good

Last week, Gabi Gregg, a plus-size fashion blogger with a degree in international relations and African-American studies, set a new precedent by becoming MTV’s first official ‘Twitter Jockey’. In her new role, Ms Gregg will serve as a sort of ‘virtual liaison’ between MTV and its fans – providing her followers with a peek inside the world of the MTV offices.

Gregg’s journey from unemployed graduate to digital pioneer has been an interesting one. After graduating from Mount Holyoke College, she embarked upon several months of unsuccessful job hunting. Then, in October 2008, she started a blog entitled, “Young, Fat, and Fabulous”. “There was nothing out there for people like me – young and trendy and also plus-size” she said.

It wasn’t long before Gregg’s blog, which had gained a strong following, caught the attention of both media and the wider public. Gregg appeared on “Good Morning America”, fashion designers began sending her sample shoes, and her plus-sized fans began seeking her out for fashion advice. Suddenly, Gregg was a much-respected figure. She also discovered Twitter.

But despite the somewhat Cinderella-effect of her blog didn’t prepare her for how quickly attention and respect could turn into a new job opportunity. But then, MTV approached Ms Gregg and invited her to audition for the Twitter Jockey position – with a salary of $100,000 USD per year. Originally one of 19 considered, Ms Gregg made the cut to the final five and then, after two weeks of challenges, won the spot.

Follow Ms Gregg on Twitter: @MTVTJ