This fall, 605 welcomed a new editor, Gabby Sudenga. Sudenga is a recent graduate from the University of Sioux Falls, with a degree in Media Studies, a concentration in social media marketing, and a minor in art.
During her senior year of college, Sudenga was inspired by an assignment that required her to create a magazine from scratch. “I loved the creative process and liberty behind it,” said Sudenga. She gained an interest in the publication industry and kept an eye out for a job opportunity after graduation.
Read on to learn more about Sudenga, from her goals to opening an Etsy shop to her expansive music taste, and more.
““I love how 605 Magazine celebrates our state and everyone in it, and I’m ecstatic to be a part of the team!” -SUDENGA
What are some of your hobbies outside of work?
I love going to concerts! I’m always on the lookout for new shows and tickets. I also love collecting vinyl records, playing the piano, creating digital art, designing stickers or t-shirts, hanging out with my friends, or browsing around Target or Barnes and Noble.
What has been your favorite concert(s) you’ve been to?
I would have to say Harry Styles, hands down. There’s something incredibly unique and special about his shows. You’re in a room with thousands of people who are all accepting and loving, so you’re free to be whoever you want to be. It’s also fun to see everyone decked out in glittery outfits, boas, heart sunglasses, and cowboy hats. I recently just purchased tickets to Taylor Swift for July and I hear she puts on quite the show, so I have a feeling she’ll be a close second.
What type of music do you listen to to help you stay focused?
Whenever I need to concentrate, I listen to movie score playlists, piano music, or the Bridgerton soundtracks.
What is your go-to coffee order?
It depends on where I end up going. My orders fluctuate between seasonal menus, Chai Tea Lattes, refreshers, various iced coffees, and Redbull Infusions. But when in doubt I’ll always stick to a Matcha Tea Latte, with vanilla, and oat milk.
FUN FACT
Sudenga has over 30 vinyl records in her collection.
What is one place on your travel bucket list?
I would love to go to Greece. It’s been a dream of mine to visit for years to experience the history, culture, architecture, and crystal clear waters. An added bonus would be being able to see the islands where Mamma Mia, one of my favorite movies, was filmed.
What is your favorite food?
I have a hard time deciding what my favorite food is, but I definitely have my favorite go-to meals at restaurants. A few of them include the Emerald Chicken sandwich at Blarney Stone Pub, the Buffalo Wing pizza at Mackenzie River Pizza, Grill & Pub, the Irish Nachos at McKnally’s Irish Pub, and the chicken chimichanga at Giliberto’s.
How would you describe your personal style?
I would have to say that my personal style is casual, simple, and comfortable with an edge to it. I believe this is reflected in the way I dress and do my makeup. Though I love finding pieces that reflect my personality or add a pop of color, whether it be band tees, new white sneakers, jewelry, or bright-colored eyeliner.
What’s your favorite thing about South Dakota?
My favorite thing about South Dakota would be the sunsets, especially in the spring or summertime! They’re absolutely breathtaking and something I’ll never get tired of seeing. My friends and I love grabbing ice cream from B&G Milkyway while the sun sets, so we can enjoy our sweet treats with a view.
Who is your hero and/or role model, and why?
A role model of mine would have to be Harry Styles. Over the years he’s been continually spreading the message, ‘Treat People With Kindness’. He inspires everyone to treat others respectfully and find the good in tough situations. He encourages everyone to show love and compassion to the ones around us because you never know who you’ll end up helping in the end.
If you were reincarnated as an animal, what would you be and why?
That’s a tough question, but if I were to be reincarnated as an animal it would be a Red Panda. They’ve been my favorite animal for as long as I can remember and they look like they live the dream, relaxing all day.
Do you have a personal motto, slogan, or catchphrase?
A catchphrase I live by is from John Lennon, “Everything will be okay in the end. If it’s not okay, then it’s not the end.” It’s a daily reminder to not lose hope. Everything will be okay and I’ll always find a way to keep going.
What is your favorite movie or TV show, and why?
My favorite tv show is Friends and it has quickly become a comfort show for me over the years. It never fails to make me laugh and pull me out of a tough spot. I find myself relating to the six main characters in one way or another, and at the end of the day, they show each other that they will always be there for each other (cue “I’ll Be There For You” by The Rembrandts). The show has truly been an inspiration in how I want to be with my closest friends. You also can’t forget the iconic quotes, songs, and relationships that have come out of it. It’s timeless and what can I say, I’m a sucker for sitcoms
What’s something you wish people knew about you?
I’m working towards opening my own Esty shop, hopefully within the next couple of months! I’m planning to sell stickers, t-shirts/sweatshirts, car decals, cups, and faceless digital portraits. Coming up with and creating designs has taken me out of my creative comfort zone and I’m looking forward to seeing what this endeavor brings me.
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