Interns

2011

Katherine Pryor

Intern, 2011

Very late in the end of the semester, when most internship applications had closed, I was frantically searching online for anything to do over the summer. By chance I came across something that seemed too good to be true: an internship at FRIENDS JOURNAL! Not only were they still accepting applications (they are open to applications all year round) but it was also an internship that, being an English major, was something I was interested in learning more about and that I might even be able to apply later in life.

Now that my time at FRIENDS JOURNAL has ended, I can honestly say that it has lived up to all my expectations. The people who work here are wonderful and genuinely want to share their experience with you. I was welcome to all the different meetings that members of the staff had and, if I did voice an opinion, it was weighed equally with any other staff member there. I have participated in many aspects of the production process while working here, including copyediting, picking poems to accompany pieces in the JOURNAL, and evaluating poetry and article submissions. I have learned everything I was hoping to learn about editing coming in, as well as things I didn’t expect to learn such as the thought process that goes behind choosing a book cover, choosing a magazine cover, and in corresponding with the many people who submit pieces to FRIENDS JOURNAL. I am so glad to have been able to have such an in-depth experience learning about a process which I can now say I am definitely interested in.

In the two months I was here, one of my favorite things that I worked on was a long term project which I was encouraged to take at the start of my internship by the senior editor. I choose to work on the anthology on Quakers and the Arts that is in the process of being put together. This anthology has been prefect for me because of my interest in the arts and I have really enjoyed the process of looking through the FRIENDS JOURNAL archives to find the pieces that would fit. This work really gave me a sense of what a rich history the Friends Journal has and I found some really amazing pieces along the way, such as one from a Friend who knew personally the poets Carl Sandberg and Robert Frost.

The people who work at here made me feel welcome from the very first day and I have become friends with both the staff and the other interns who work here. Even though I’m excited to be going home for some time with my family, I’m sad to leave all the great people I’ve met here. I was expecting whatever job I found this summer to be painfully boring and something uninspiring. Instead, I found the Friends Journal and I know that I will be coming back to visit soon because I have thoroughly enjoyed my time here. 

2011

Grace Lundergan

Intern, 2011

I looked for an editorial internship partly to answer the question, “What are you going to do with an English major?” Since I just graduated from college, this is a question I have to answer not just to well-meaning adults, but also for myself.

When I was offered and then accepted this internship, I was hoping to gain editing experience, learn about how the magazine works, and learn about Quakerism. I definitely fulfilled those goals, and I really enjoyed my job. I edited a lot of articles and also read and commented on possible submissions. I learned a great deal about the process of producing FRIENDS JOURNAL—even little details I had never considered before—which has made me read other magazines in a different way. I enjoyed the meticulousness of copyediting and following the style sheet to a T.  I had fun reading back issues of FRIENDS JOURNAL as I worked on the parenting anthology, and it was a great way to pick up the basics of Quakerism—by the end of the summer, I could understand the Quaker jargon that was thrown around at staff meetings.

There were also unexpected benefits to this internship. I felt like the editors trusted me, and I knew my opinion was valued. I actually enjoyed staff meetings. I also enjoyed working with friendly, welcoming people who are passionate about what they do. There is a real sense of camaraderie in this office. We celebrated each other’s birthdays, we shared fruit or desserts at staff meetings, and I could sit down for lunch with anyone in the office. In addition, I loved living in Philadelphia, taking the train to work, and exploring the city. Interning for FRIENDS JOURNAL has been a great experience for me, and it will continue to shape my career path after I leave. 

2011

Jennifer Leedom

Intern, 2011

I came to intern at FRIENDS JOURNAL a few weeks after I graduated from college, and it proved to be a wonderful experience. After completing the quick intern orientation, I was allowed to dive right in and start reading submissions, which became my favorite thing to do here. I learned about copyediting marks and the FJ style sheet, how to choose a magazine cover, and many other aspects of publishing a magazine. 

I was also able to engage in a number of other projects. I searched for good books and requested review copies to be featured in the books section of the magazine. I was able to pursue one of my other interests, women’s studies, which was my minor, and evaluate and add to an anthology of articles based on gender, sexuality, and marriage. I also looked after FJ’s new Flickr account and contacted meetinghouses for their newsletters. I was exposed to many different things during this internship, including Quakerism. However, since Quakers have so many interests, I enjoyed reading about a variety of topics within the magazine's articles, from gay rights to the benefits of nuclear power to Inazo Nitobe, a Japanese Quaker. 

One of the greatest benefits of interning at FRIENDS JOURNAL is the friendly staff, who are always willing to help and answer questions. I can’t imagine that I would have worked with such a welcoming staff if I had had an internship at a large publishing company, and I feel that I learned just as much at FJ. I'm grateful for my internship at the magazine, and I'm sure it will benefit me as I take my next step in the publishing world.

2011

Drew Lane

Intern, 2011

As I read down this list of past intern experiences at FRIENDS JOURNAL, I can’t help but think how old endless amounts of positive feedback must get. I could just imagine some readers believe a portion of their subscription money goes specifically to bribing interns. And man do I wish that was true.

After spending my first few days completing orientation activities, I was thrown right into the mix with other more seasoned interns. I evaluated and commented on submission entries, proofread articles, and even transcribed lectures. During my time there, I also hosted several projects to better the company including outreach and social media.  Here I wasn’t just an intern who made photocopies; I was a living being who shared responsibilities in a small community. 

Now thanks to FRIENDS JOURNAL, I’ve completed my internship requirements for bachelors degree, and will soon receive it in the mail, however in this economy that translates to “move back home.” I honestly believe my time at FRIENDS JOURNAL was one I wish hadn’t come to an end. 

2010-2011

Rosa Gramajo

Intern, 2010-2011

My internship experience at FRIENDS JOURNAL was one that I will never forget. I knew I wanted to do an internship the moment I declared my major (English) during sophomore year in college. I wanted hands-on experience. I started my research last summer and I was not feeling hopeful because nothing really stood out to me. First, I applied to two places. I got interviews and both places extended an invitation to start with them during the spring semester. I knew that I probably was not going to get the real experience from them that I wanted out of an internship. I was going to be leaving my part-time job at the bank for an internship. I really wanted something that would be worth it. Before I said "yes" to them, I did more research and somehow ended up finding this great gem. Right from the start, I had a good feeling about FJ. I applied and I was extremely happy to hear that I was offered an internship. Without thinking it over, I let the other two places know, "Thank you for your time, but I plan on doing an internship elsewhere."

I was here from January until the end of April, but in those few months I got exposed to so much in the world of putting together a magazine. Right from the beginning, it was hands-on experience. I thought it was great, but then I started to worry that I wouldn't be able to keep up! However, I learned that everyone was very helpful and I did not feel constant pressure to rush through things to get something done or else I would be in trouble. I learned that this was truly a learning experience and Bob was a great supervisor to have during this time.

My tasks involved anything from copyediting, reading submissions and poetry, working on an anthology on Education, and much more. My personal favorite was working on the anthology. I got to read so much (which I love doing) and sort through articles that I thought would work well in the anthology. It was a great experience and I loved every second of it.

I had to write daily log entries for my supervisor at school and she was very impressed by the work that FJ had me doing. She said it sounded like a great place and I definitely agreed with her. I met with her a few times during the semester and we would discuss what I was gaining from my internship experience, and she was always impressed.

Even though I should be excited to be leaving FJ and graduating in a couple of weeks, I am not joyful. This was the best semester I had and FJ was a big part of making that happen. With a comfortable environment, friendly staff, and a great learning experience along the way, I am not ready to leave it all. What more could I have asked for?

2010-2011

Lauren Earle

Intern, 2010-2011

When I decided I wanted to add some real-world experience to my resume, I quickly realized that many of the “serious” publishing internships were very competitive and were offered for school credit only. Having already graduated college, I searched for a more open option, ultimately discovering FRIENDS JOURNAL.

I began my internship at the JOURNAL in January 2011 and stayed for about six months. Because I had a full-time job, I was worried that my limited availability would interfere with the type and amount of work I would be able to do, but I quickly found that this was not the case. After spending my first few visits completing orientation activities, I was thrown right into the mix with the other more seasoned interns. I evaluated and commented on submissions, edited and proofread articles, and even transcribed lectures. One of the aspects of my internship that I really enjoyed was how much I felt I was a real part of the editorial staff. Many times I found myself in the office of the senior editor discussing my opinion of a certain piece, or conferring about the best way to handle a certain correction or a particularly harsh letter to the editor; I really felt like my abilities were respected and taken into consideration, and that my shortcomings as part of the learning process were accepted.

As a current job-searcher, my time spent at the JOURNAL has also given me more of the confidence I need to tell employers that I do have many marketable skills as an English major other than writing skills. Since being exposed to the Quaker faith about ten or so years ago, I’ve found that integrity, honesty, and collaboration have become a few of my core character traits, and my internship at the JOURNAL has really showed me how I can put those to use on the job.

Sophia Lazare

Intern, 2010-2011

When I first started my internship at FRIENDS JOURNAL in October 2010, my biggest concern was that I would be judged for my nonreligious background and upbringing. I was worried that the Journal and its employees would be preachy and pushy. It didn't take long before my fears were assuaged. I quickly learned how loving and accepting people of the Quaker faith are. I never felt uncomfortable or preached to at Friends Journal. Many of the articles we received and published addressed issues far more universal than just "Quaker issues." FJ authors frequently topics like gay rights, social/economic justice, and climate change were written about by. I was constantly being challenged by new and exciting ideas, and able to discuss articles with other interns and members of the staff.

In addition to learning invaluable editing skills and the chaotic (though satisfying) process of putting a magazine together start to finish, I also gained a world of knowledge about spirituality and current events. The experience pushed me to examine my own spirituality and I have grown enormously because of it. I even got to join EQAT (Earth Quaker Action Team) in an exhilarating rally for environmental justice in Philadelphia. I wrote an article about the experience, which was published in the February 2011 issue of FJ. For someone interested in expanding intellectually and spiritually as well as gaining a world of knowledge about the editorial field in a small, hands-on environment, this internship is truly ideal.

Madeline Schaefer

Intern, 2010-2011

Interning at FRIENDS JOURNAL was, in many ways, a coming home, both physically and spiritually. Since going away to school and subsequently traveling to various places around the world, returning to Philadelphia and interning at the JOURNAL was the perfect opportunity for me to reconnect with my Quaker roots and attempt to bridge the often misinterpreted divide between Quakerism and more literary pursuits. I had known about the hands-on nature of the internship, having gone to Quaker school in the area and hearing from several of my classmates of their experience as an intern. Having studied English in Minnesota and immersing myself in authors such as Chaucer, Austin, and Joyce, this internship was the perfect chance for me to bring my well-honed analytical skills in line with my Quaker beliefs, some if not most of which I had put on the back burner.

And I learned a great deal, not just about Quakerism and the ways in which it touches people, but about copyediting and publishing. Nothing, not even being an English major, can quite prepare you for the set of rules and guidelines that accompany copyediting. It was a key skill to learn. But I wasn't just reading manuscripts and checking for errors—I was also given larger projects that concerned the entire publication. I learned about how different departments work together, and how communication is vitally important for the smooth operation of a publication such as the Journal. Attending staff meetings and working with people from various departments gave me a fascinating peek into the subtle social dynamics that pervade any workplace.

Interning at the Journal has taught me so much and inspired me to become part of the conversation among Friends about faith and belief. The generous staff reminded me of the vitally important role that all of our voices have in discerning a deeper and more complete truth.

Rashaad Jorden

Intern, 2010-2011

Immediately after returning to the United States from Japan in August 2010, I was looking for something worthwhile to put on a résumé. In particular, I was looking for something editorial since I have long dreamt of being a magazine editor. One day, while searching for internships online, I happened to stumble across information about FRIENDS JOURNAL. Upon looking at the interns' testimonials, I was delighted to learn that the magazine would be a great place to learn firsthand about editing and I didn't have to worry about my lack of knowledge about Quakers.

As expected, the internship has been a wonderful experience. In addition to learning a lot about Quakers, I have gotten an upfront look at the work that's put in to publish an issue of a magazine. I have enjoyed the fact that I am always busy in the office. Whether it's judging submissions, copyediting, proofreading, or creating an anthology, there's always something fun for me to do at FRIENDS JOURNAL. It's a great magazine to intern at because the interns are important people. Our opinions are always valued. Most importantly, I have learned tips about copyediting (mainly trying to keep as much of the author's original voice as possible) that will serve me well in the future.

But the fun at the magazine isn't simply limited to copyediting, proofreading, etc.

The most enjoyable aspect of working at the magazine—and what I looked forward to most—was the weekly staff meeting. While it was nice to hear about what others were doing workwise, it was more enjoyable hearing about the events in my co-workers personal lives and expressing what was happening in mine.

My time at FRIENDS JOURNAL has been a fun experience, and it's a great place to learn about magazine publishing.

Ryan Velez

Intern, 2010-2011

Going into my final semester of college, I found myself in a rather difficult position. Being an English major, I wanted to take my writing skills into the workforce, but didn't have any experience in order to make an informed decision on what to pursue. As a result, my last semester has been a hectic but rewarding series of projects and experiences in "the real world," with the crown jewel being my time at FRIENDS JOURNAL.

Publishing had always been an interest of mine, but I had very little knowledge of what actually went into publishing on a day-to-day basis. When I decided to intern at FRIENDS JOURNAL, I was intrigued but apprehensive, particularly since I had no Quaker background. It was a great relief to find that the staff was so receptive and insightful, and I couldn't imagine a better place for someone to get their first bit of experience in the publishing industry. Over the course of my internship, I learned some of the conventions of style, practiced and honed my editing skills, read and commented on potential submissions, as well as a variety of tasks Every day I came in, there was something new to learn. By going to weekly staff meetings, I was also able to see firsthand everything outside the editorial aspect that goes into making a successful publication, valuable information that I'm sure will serve me well in the future.

Perhaps my favorite part of my time here was working on the "Racial Concerns" anthology, a compilation of past FRIENDS JOURNAL articles. Not only did I get a chance to look back in the archives and read some fascinating articles from various parts of history, but I also got some experience making tough decisions such as creating categories and selecting articles based around what suited the vision of the anthology best.

Overall, I would certainly say that my internship at FRIENDS JOURNAL is far from the stereotype of an intern filing documents in the corner. From the moment I started here, I was treated as a member of the staff whose voice is heard and whose input is valued. In addition, I also had great freedom in customizing my schedule to meet the demands of a final semester of college. FRIENDS JOURNAL is both a friendly and informative work environment, and anyone seeking a positive introduction to the publishing world should consider an internship here.