The editorial internship with Sigma Tau Delta’s journals was a catalyst of change. Reading, writing, and editing have always been loves of mine, and I spent much of my time in academia. My academic success at Columbia-Greene Community College and the State University of New Paltz has nourished my appreciation for literature and taught me how best to express that through writing. I thought that, after my undergraduate work, I’d become a professor or teacher. In my leisure time, I often engaged in academic pursuits, like schoolwork and reading literary theory. My experience as a peer tutor has allowed me to collaborate and help my fellow students in the academic writing process while refining and enhancing my writing. Yet, after completing this internship, my plans for the future have changed.
Sigma Tau Delta’s dedication to fostering all aspects of the English language among college students initially struck my interest. But the tipping point was knowing I would be paid if I were chosen. I knew I needed to work during the summer, but I never thought I could do anything more than a tedious customer service job at the local frozen yogurt store. Instead, I was able to work doing what I love with an outstanding leader, Dr. Carie King, and an incredible team with Sunny Williams and Emma Downer, while being compensated for my expertise. It felt like the first time I was taken seriously for my written word knowledge. Being paid allowed me to concentrate on reading and to cherish every submission. I could focus solely on advocating for my favorite pieces to move forward; I had a summer of what I loved.
Also, the amount of respect and faith allotted during the internship was paramount for such a short time together, which was unprecedented in my experience. One can quickly feel like a number and obligation at university, becoming one of many faces in the crowd even if one goes to office hours or join clubs or activities. Yet, the internship was a team consisting of me, Carie, Sunny, and Emma. I was encouraged and affirmed consistently; there was barely any hierarchy, if any. Everyone’s stance and thoughts were taken seriously and weighed as equals. . . . It didn’t feel obligatory—the work or the meetings—like classes and assignments sometimes can.
Through Sigma Tau Delta’s supportive and knowledgeable environment, I used the skills I harnessed in school. Through the internship, I’ve gained confidence in my intellect and ability as a reader and writer. Most importantly, I realize that a future in academia is not the direction I have to or should go toward. The independence and trust given to me inspired me to pursue leadership roles, ones where I can do what I love—reading, writing, and editing, paying attention to the smallest of details, forming a narrative, playing around with the optics of a piece—in whatever sector of Project Management that I find myself. This internship positively impacted my world, and I plan to carry what I learned to future career sectors. It is truly an experience that fundamentally changed my approach to literature, editing, and work.
The 2023 Sigma Tau Delta Journals will be available soon for you to enjoy all of Ollie’s hard work. In the meantime, claim your copy of the 2022 Sigma Tau Delta Journals!
Ollie Otty
Sigma Tau Delta Journal Internship Recipient, 2022
Pi Tau Chapter
SUNY at New Paltz, New Paltz, NY
Sigma Tau Delta Journal Internship
A paid, remote, three-month internship opportunity is available with the Sigma Tau Delta Journals. This opportunity will provide a minimum of two Sigma Tau Delta student members (undergraduate or graduate) with editorial and publication experience. These interns will work with the Managing Editor on the publications, from May 15 until August 15, averaging 10 hours per week. The interns may complete this internship from any location, so long as they have reliable internet access. Each intern will be paid $300 per month for three months.
Job Summary
Under the Managing Editor’s direction interns will:
- Read and evaluate submissions
- Edit accepted submissions for publication
- Communicate regularly via email and/or video conference with the Managing Editor
Skills and Abilities
- Excellent written communication skills
- Ability to meet deadlines
- Strong work ethic
- Editorial experience
- Computer literacy
Requirements
Applicants must be active student members of a Sigma Tau Delta chapter at the time of application and should be familiar with the most recent issues of the Sigma Tau Delta journals.
Application
Applications for summer 2023 will be accepted on the AwardSpring platform through February 6, 2023.
Required Materials
- Well written cover letter to the Managing Editor of Publications
- Relevant resume/CV
- Short answer responses to application questions
Resources
Building Confidence and a Career in Publishing: Interning with Rectangle and Review
Once an Editor, Always an Editor: Thoughts from a Sigma Tau Delta Journal Intern
Sigma Tau Delta Journal Internship: Answering the Dreaded “What’s Next?”
Anxiety Relief from . . . an Internship?
7 Reasons You Should Apply for Sigma Tau Delta’s Journal Internship
Apply for a Sigma Tau Delta Journal Internship
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