Delving into Publishing with Penguin Random House

When I applied for a priority selection in Penguin Random House’s Adult & Children’s division, I had little confidence in my chances. Aware of the industry’s competitiveness, doubts plagued me. Would my passion for literature and books make a lasting impression? Would my work experience in other roles and eagerness to learn about publishing suffice? Despite the uncertainties, I pressed forward, recognizing that facing rejection was better than regretting a missed opportunity.

The interview, conducted by soon-to-be supervisors, surpassed my expectations. Their calming presence and insightful questions allowed me to elaborate on my experience, work ethic, and skills. It significantly eased my anxiety. I felt calm and content, knowing I had pushed past my anxiety, fear of failure, and presented my best self. Even if I did not land the position, I knew the door to publishing would remain open long enough for me to try again.

Two days after the interview, Penguin Random House offered me the Education Marketing and Special Markets internship for the Fall 2023 – Spring 2024 term. I was excited to embark on this new chapter of my life. Over the following six months, I immersed myself in various areas of marketing, delving into the education and retail side of publishing. Working closely with Kaitlyn Spotts and Spenser Stevens of PRH’s education department, I flourished as a writer, editor, and reader.

Being inexperienced with children’s books, writing blogs for educators and students had initially been challenging. Yet, with constructive feedback and guidance from Spotts, I honed my skills, finding enjoyment in creating collections, blogs, and engaging content for PreK-12’s Instagram page. Similarly, navigating Higher Education marketing sharpened my skills in crafting newsletters and refining my writing style.

Under Scott Lindrup’s leadership in the Special Markets team, I discovered my marketing voice. Participating in weekly marketing meetings and conducting email marketing campaigns deepened my understanding of marketing’s role in publishing and emphasized the importance of detail-orientation and collaboration.

Despite the internship being fully remote, I was graciously invited by Spotts and Stevens to visit Penguin Random House’s headquarters in Manhattan. This visit offered a firsthand glimpse into the company’s inner workings and its tight-knit community.

Attending launch meetings and events like NY Now at the Javits Center provided further insights into retail promotion and consumer engagement.

Furthermore, fostering connections with colleagues and shadowing teams fueled my interest in publishing, particularly in editorial work. Even though I have developed a newfound interest in marketing and publicity, my desire to advocate for authors and amplify marginalized voices as an editor never wavered.

Presently, I aspire to secure a position as an editorial assistant. I am eager to expand my writing portfolio and contribute to the world of publishing. This experience has empowered me to navigate life’s transitions and pursue my passions with confidence.

This internship experience not only provides recipients with professional opportunities, financial support, and personal growth but equips them with the tools needed to pursue their passions and career aspirations head-on.

My internship with Penguin Random House marks the beginning of an enthralling and enlightening journey in publishing, brimming with opportunities for growth and self-discovery.

Nyla Green
Penguin Random House Internship Recipient, Fall 2023 – Spring 2024
Alpha Alpha Phi Chapter
Mercy College, NY

Penguin Random House Internship Priority Consideration

The Penguin Random House internship program offers candidates the opportunity to work in the Penguin Random House Adult & Children’s divisions, attend weekly professional development programming, and learn about the world of publishing. This program is intended to provide opportunities for racially/ethnically underrepresented groups in the publishing industry. Active chapter members interested in learning about the world of marketing in book publishing are encouraged to apply. No prior publishing experience is required.

Interns will work remote for 21 hours per week at a pay rate of $20/hr. Intern schedules will be flexible to account for candidates who may be located in a variety of time zones. PRH offers internships in such areas as Editorial, Marketing, Publicity, Sales, Art/Design, Legal, Book Making, Finance, and Subrights. Internship offerings vary from cycle to cycle and will be announced by PRH when they open their application portal.

Eligibility

Applicants for Priority Consideration for a Penguin Random House Internship must be:

an active student member of Sigma Tau Delta;
pursuing an undergraduate (junior or senior) or graduate degree;
enrolled part- or full-time in a degree-seeking program;
enrolled at a school within the United States (includes DC); and
legally authorized to work in the United States.

How to Apply

To apply for the priority application, eligible student members must complete the Sigma Tau Delta Penguin Random House priority AwardSpring application, through August 12, 2024, 4:00 p.m. CT.

In addition to applying for Sigma Tau Delta priority consideration, APPLICANTS MUST ALSO APPLY for the internship itself via the Penguin Random House Application Portal. Candidates who receive Priority Consideration will be provided with a special link to apply for the internship of their choice with PRH.

All Sigma Tau Delta members are encouraged to apply directly to Penguin Random House. Applicants who do not receive Priority Consideration from Sigma Tau Delta are still eligible for a Sigma Tau Delta stipend if they are accepted directly through Penguin Random House’s traditional application process.

Penguin Random House Internship: Priority Consideration