Summer Spotlight: Susie Kim

Majors: English, French

Graduation Year: 2025

What have you been doing this summer?

I have an internship with the publishing company Grove Atlantic, Inc.

How did you find out about this opportunity?

I checked the publishers of some books I enjoyed reading, (Waiting for Godot by Samuel Beckett and Convenience Store Woman by Sayaka Murata. I found that both were published by Grove Atlantic, so I went to their website to check for any opportunities. Fortunately, there was an internship opening available!

What has been your favorite experience so far?

Since I’ve only ever been a consumer of books, it’s strange to be on the other side of them. To see the behind-the-scenes process of acquiring and publishing books is fascinating. It’s like being on set for your favorite TV show. I also get the chance to talk with various departments at Grove Atlantic, like publicity and marketing, which has been super helpful in learning more about the industry. 

What are you looking to get out of this experience?

I’m interested in working in publishing, so I’m happy that I’ll have concrete experience working for a publishing house, and one that I’ve really come to like on top of that. It gives me the hope and confidence I need to keep pursuing this field! 

What’s your best piece of advice for students who might be looking for a similar opportunity?

When I started to apply for internships in publishing, I was immediately discouraged by the hammer of rejection that thunked me on the head like a Whac-A-Mole. But with the support and encouragement of my wonderful English professors (thank you especially to Professor Olbricht and Professor Hunter!), I continued to apply for these internships while also going after other opportunities. My advice is: who cares if you’re thunked? Be a mole! I’m so grateful that Grove Atlantic chose my application this summer cycle, so keep applying for these positions; you never know what might appeal to employers!

Read more about Susie’s story in The Daily.