The Point magazine was founded by UChicago graduate students in 2008 with the goal of "ask[ing] readers to participate in a dialogue between diverse intellectual traditions, personalities and points of view."
15 years later, the renowned philosophy journal, named after Hyde Park's beloved Promontory Point, has produced 30 issues that it distributes to subscribers around the world. Interested readers can also pick up copies in bookstores around the city, including the Seminary Co-Op on campus.
For third-year student Jacqueline Proshan, due to The Point's relatively small staff size, an internship with the magazine offered her a chance to engage in substantive tasks like fact-checking and editing copy, and work closely with UChicago alumni. Learn more about her experience this summer by reading the Q&A below.
What stood out to you about the position as an applicant?
I found the internship on Handshake initially. Around the same time I saw the listing, I heard about The Point's Program for Public Thinking – a two-week summer workshop the magazine is hosting with college students from around the country --- from my professor (for a class on the novel "The Magic Mountain").
The magazine is unique in its pieces' combination of personal essay and criticism, mainly of fiction and philosophy. It fulfills an important niche in its merging of academic and personal subjects to explore modern life, so their mission compelled me. Their editors are committed to teaching the next generation about writing, editing and intellectual magazines, more broadly. I also knew I'd learn about literature, philosophy and criticism, and I liked the idea of reading and editing as a job.
What did your internship entail, and in what ways did it prepare you for your professional career?
I help with proofreading, editing and fact-checking. I enjoyed observing and taking part in putting together the summer issue (30). Most days I also read through pitches or first drafts sent to the magazine's editors.
I've developed my communication skills, both verbal and written, expanded my knowledge of literature and philosophy, and strengthened my editing skills.
What advice would you have for future students pursuing similar internships and/or careers?
I would tell people interested in a career in the humanities to ignore the pressure of choosing a precise path for themselves. Pursue your interests – summer internships are for learning more about what you enjoy. Stick with the humanities if you love it, and ignore anyone who may undermine its value.
What are your aspirations?
I want a career where I can read and write, think creatively and with others, and connect introspective, personal thought with some practical pursuit. I'd also enjoy writing a novel one day, if I'm lucky.