This last year that I’ve had with the University of North Georgia Press is proof that things happen for a reason. There is a plan for the universe, and if something doesn’t work out it only means that there is something better just around the corner. When I first applied to work with the Press, I was excited to have this opportunity, especially since my dream is to work in the book publishing industry. However, I was filled with disappointment from finding out that I did not get another job that I had interviewed for just a few weeks previous. This is truly the best thing that could have happened.
Working with the Press has validated my chosen career path and allowed me to gain some of the experience that is so necessary for me to break through the competition. I’ve been able to jump into the industry at the end of my collegiate experience and begin to fully understand what it means to be an editor.
Before, I knew that the job would involve combing through manuscripts, searching for mistakes and ways that the writing could improve. What I didn’t understand is the huge amount of writing, marketing, and graphic design that would be included in the process of releasing a book to the public. I didn’t know about those important elements before, but their presence is not disappointing.
I love watching a book evolve, knowing that I was there to see its transformation. I edited, I marketed, and I designed. I love shaping the book, molding it into a better version of itself. I love knowing that readers will enjoy it that much more because of the time and effort that I put in. I love helping the author reach an audience in the most effective way.
As I approach the end of my time with the University of North Georgia Press, I just want to say thank you. Thank you for taking the time to work with a student who had too many things on her plate. Thank you for showing me the ropes, and showing me that there is more to love about publishing than just perfecting the words on the page. And thank you for shaping my childlike passion for the written word into something mature and concrete.