Authored by Natalie Montpas, UNG Press Intern
I’ve always dreamed of publishing my own book series someday. It’s a dream that blends the best of both worlds for me: art and writing. As a BFA student with a minor in English, I’ve spent years learning how to tell stories visually and verbally. However, when it came to understanding how those stories actually become books, I knew I needed real-world experience. That’s what led me to apply to the UNG Press internship: a bridge between the creative and technical sides of publishing.
Going in, I wanted to see what the publishing process looked like beyond the classroom. I was especially curious about how manuscripts become finalized publications and how design shapes a book’s identity. My goal was simple: to strengthen my professional writing and editing skills while learning from people who live and breathe publishing every day.
From Proofs to Posts
During my internship, I got a taste of just about everything. I proofread manuscripts, wrote blog articles for Notions, and even whipped up some social media posts. Each task came with a new learning curve. Proofreading honed my attention to detail and showed me how even the smallest inconsistency can ripple through an entire book. Writing for Notions allowed me to combine research with personal reflection, which in turn helped me find my voice as a writer in a professional setting. The social media projects, meanwhile, taught me how to engage an audience through purposeful design and text.
Designing a Cover Story
One of my favorite moments came when I was asked to help draft cover designs for an upcoming release. As someone whose background leans heavily toward art, this assignment was especially meaningful.
Working on that design reminded me that a cover isn’t just an aesthetic choice; it’s a communication tool. It must capture the tone and identity of a book in a single glance. That process taught me to think critically about how design serves content—and it reaffirmed my interest in pursuing a career that bridges both creative and editorial work.
This project also strengthened my confidence in combining my artistic and technical skills. Seeing my work considered in a professional publishing context reminded me that creativity has many forms of value, especially when paired with communication and adaptability.
What I Learned Behind the Scenes
Before this internship, I had no idea just how many steps were involved in turning a manuscript into a finished book. From editing and layout to marketing and distribution, every department plays a critical role. What surprised me most was how structured and flexible the process can be at the same time. There’s a clear workflow, yet things often shift, making adaptability just as important as precision.
That behind-the-scenes perspective completely changed how I look at books. Now, when I pick one up, I can see the invisible network behind it: the editors shaping the text, the designers building its visual personality, and the marketers finding its audience. Publishing is a collaboration in every sense of the word!
Skills That Stuck
If I had to sum up my biggest takeaways, they’d be precision, communication, and confidence. Proofreading improved my technical editing skills. Writing for different audiences taught me to adapt tone and style. Working within a professional editorial workflow strengthened my ability to receive and apply feedback effectively.
Time management was another major area of growth. Balancing multiple assignments with firm deadlines taught me how to prioritize and stay organized; skills I’ll carry forward in both creative and professional settings.
Looking Ahead
This internship reaffirmed everything I love about the intersection of storytelling, design, and collaboration. I can see myself pursuing a career that blends those elements; something that keeps me involved in both the creative and production sides of content.
If I could offer one piece of advice to future interns, it would be: stay curious and ask questions early! The team at UNG Press is incredibly supportive, and every project is an opportunity to learn something new. Keep detailed notes, welcome feedback, and treat even the smallest task as valuable feedback. Everything connects in publishing, and you never know which project will shape your path the most.
Closing Thoughts
Interning with UNG Press gave me more than professional experience; it gave me perspective. I now understand how art, writing, and production work together to bring stories to life. More importantly, I’ve seen how much passion goes into every book that leaves the Press. This experience has deepened my appreciation for the people who make publishing possible and strengthened my excitement to continue in this field. I’m leaving with sharper skills, lasting lessons, and a renewed sense of purpose.
For that, I couldn’t be more grateful.
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