Can a publication run your article before you get paid? Yes. However, if you don't get paid, make sure you've got your contract and/or any emails regarding payment handy so you have proof that the magazine owes you money.

On freebies and restaurant reviewing.

Are there any guides to fashion writing?

How should I pay for graduate school? If you have absolutely no money, maybe you need to put it on hold for a while...

Anybody have experience applying for gigs at SparkNotes?

Finally, sing the recession blues.