UC undergrad finds success in publishing internship

UC undergraduate Mars Robinson understands as well as any the financial challenges that can face college students. A non-traditional student, Robinson took a break after high school graduation before entering UC’s College of Arts and Sciences to pursue her bachelor's degree in English with an emphasis on creative writing.

In the beginning, Robinson worked in a casino to pay tuition while she pursued her degree. The night work wasn’t compatible with her goals, she says, and she found herself mentally drained and struggling academically. Then, in 2021, she found an internship opportunity with the University of Cincinnati Press.

Robinson believes that her skills in publishing have tripled since starting her position at UC Press. The position, she says, has not only allowed her to build her resume, but also to network beyond the classroom. She also recognizes that her confidence and ability to advocate for herself have grown tremendously since working for UC Press.

“With added proficiency in programs and systems used by large publishers, my resume looks completely different,” Robinson says. “I’ve been able to volunteer for more responsibilities in both acquisition and production roles and gain networking contacts that will last long after my internship.

“I’ve been lucky to work with Professors Laura Micciche and Olga Hart of UC Libraries to help lower the cost of materials for fellow students of the copyediting and publishing certificate,” she says.

Robinson says she recognizes the serendipity of being in a position to help other students as she herself was helped by the internship. “I think it shows how taking an opportunity for your own personal growth can echo throughout your environment, benefiting more than just yourself.”

Featured image at top: Stacks of books. Credit/Robert Anasch for Unsplash.