Do I deserve to be here? Do I have the skills to be an editor? These are the questions that plagued my mind tirelessly when I was given the news that I would be a 2025 Sigma Tau Delta Rectangle and Review intern. I, like many of us writers and editors, struggle with the ever-present feeling of imposter syndrome. When I logged on to the first Zoom meeting of my internship, I was introduced to my fellow interns and quickly felt at home. The Managing Editor of Publications, Carie King, reassured us that we all were chosen for a reason, that we are here to strengthen our editing weaknesses while collaborating on a project much bigger than just ourselves.
During my time in undergrad, I delved into creative editing. I was assistant editor, which granted me the privilege of delegating my weaknesses to my executive editor. This included all nonfiction and creative nonfiction pieces. If it was an essay, I would pass it on to a more qualified editor. When I became an intern with the Rectangle and Review, I had no choice but to look at scholarly works. The MLA Handbook became my best friend. It took up permanent residence on my couch side table and my desk. Nearing the end of my internship, I debated purchasing a third copy for my nightstand. I began using the mantra “when in doubt, MLA guidebook it out,” which I use in my English classroom today.
When I reflect on the intense moments of imposter syndrome, I am reminded of two quotes from American author Mel Robinson. “Do it badly. Do it scared. Do it tired. Just get started,” and “Before you’re good at something, you have to be bad at it.” This is an international journal of high esteem; how can I risk doing something poorly when the stakes are so high? The answer can be found in the Sigma Tau Delta mission statement. This Society embraces fellowship, and within that, the space to learn and grow as writers and editors.
Carie King and the other interns are the secret to success. Utilizing the ideas and skills that you gather from the Rectangle and Review will be invaluable. You are gifted the opportunity to be exposed to types of writing that challenge you in ways that can strike inspiration. If you think you are doing something incorrectly, you have an entire team behind you to help. This will follow you into your next project, having trained yourself in these new skills.
This internship will change your life; yes, that might sound dramatic, but I promise you it does. I left my internship with confidence. Because after all, this is an international journal of high esteem, and I took the risk.
The 2026 Sigma Tau Delta Journals, highlighting Starla’s hard work, will be available soon. In the meantime, claim your copy of the 2025 Sigma Tau Delta Centennial Journals to check out the most recently published journals!
Starla Parker
Sigma Tau Delta Journal Internship Recipient, 2025
Alpha Theta Chapter
Nicholls State University, Thibodaux, LA
Sigma Tau Delta Journal Internship
A three-month internship opportunity is available with the Sigma Tau Delta Journals. This opportunity will provide as many as three Sigma Tau Delta student members (undergraduate or graduate) with editorial and publication experience. These interns will work with the Managing Editor from May 15 to August 15, averaging 10 hours per week. Internships are remote and therefore require reliable internet access. Each intern will be paid $600 per month.
Interns may not submit for publication in the journals on which they are working.
Under the Managing Editor’s direction interns:
- Read and evaluate submissions
- Edit accepted submissions for publication
- Communicate regularly via email and/or video conference with the Managing Editor
Interns should have:
- Excellent written communication skills
- Ability to meet deadlines
- Strong work ethic
- Editorial experience
- Computer literacy
Eligibility
Applicants must be active student members of a Sigma Tau Delta chapter at the time of application and should be familiar with the most recent issues of the Sigma Tau Delta journals.
How to Apply
Interested members must apply for the Sigma Tau Delta Journal Internship through the AwardSpring Application during the Winter Awards Cycle. Applications open January 12 – February 2, 2026, at 4 p.m. CT.
Sigma Tau Delta
Sigma Tau Delta, International English Honor Society, was founded in 1924 at Dakota Wesleyan University. The Society strives to
- Confer distinction for high achievement in English language and literature in undergraduate, graduate, and professional studies;
- Provide, through its local chapters, cultural stimulation on college campuses and promote interest in literature and the English language in surrounding communities;
- Foster all aspects of the discipline of English, including literature, language, and writing;
- Promote exemplary character and good fellowship among its members;
- Exhibit high standards of academic excellence; and
- Serve society by fostering literacy.
With over 900 active chapters located in the United States and abroad, there are more than 1,000 Faculty Advisors, and approximately 9,000 members inducted annually.
Sigma Tau Delta also recognizes the accomplishments of professional writers who have contributed to the fields of language and literature.
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