Molly Blanco Title: Home Testing Apprentice Education: Iowa State University Location: Des Moines, Iowa Molly is an Editorial Apprentice at Dotdash Meredith focusing on home products for Better Homes & Gardens. She has conducted research and testing for hundreds of home products ranging from bed sheets to vacuums.Highlights:Managing Editor for the Iowa State Daily Reporter at the Harlan Newspapers Experience Molly is a journalist with three years of experience researching and writing articles. She is passionate about helping readers find the best products for their home.As an apprentice for research and testing at Dotdash Meredith, she expanded her product expertise by interviewing experts in the home space and writing methodologies for product testing. She has tested a wide variety of home products in the Dotdash Meredith lab, ranging from tape measures to heated mattress pads.In addition to the time she spends researching products, she has devoted countless hours to transforming her small apartment into a living space she loves. She learned to appreciate all things home at a young age, helping her parents with DIY projects around the house and sprucing up their home whenever possible.Favorite Purchase:My favorite item I've purchased is a sunrise alarm clock because I struggle to get a good night's sleep. The clock helps me wind down every night before bed, and the white noise feature quiets my mind so I can fall asleep fast. I love waking up naturally with the gentle glow of the "sun," especially when I have to be up long before the actual sun rises. Education Molly will graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Journalism and Mass Communication from Iowa State University in May 2023. She has a second major in Spanish and a minor in sociology.Awards:I received a Hearst Journalism Award in Investigative Journalism, placing in the top 20 nationally. I also am a finalist for the Iowa Newspaper Association Better Newspaper Contest. About Better Homes & Gardens Better Homes & Gardens, a Dotdash Meredith Brand, is the only iconic home brand with a 100+ year history of providing trustworthy and achievable ideas for all doers and home-enthusiasts. We are the go-to resource for fresh takes on home, food, and gardening—inspiring people to bring their dreams to life at home on special occasions and every day. BHG reaches 45 million readers each month. Learn more about us and our editorial process.