My gaze constantly follows the cracks in the ancient stone, watching for dips and bumps that might make my sneakered feet stumble. Walking these medieval streets is a treacherous, engaging task – one that forces me to be aware of my surroundings while simultaneously switching my brain to walk on the left side of the street. Challenging, right?

This is not the only challenging aspect of my stay here. I sit in our lecture hall for hours each day, learning about various aspects of publishing from accomplished industry professionals; I am told to read 350 pages of a manuscript in twenty-four hours in order to write a reader’s report; and I practice generating nonfiction book ideas appropriate for an established publishing imprint – along with many others tasks. While this may sound – and is – quite demanding, I am thriving. What do you mean I get to sit with my new friends for hours discussing books and critically analyze our own desired career paths? I get to listen to my potential future employers talks for hours about how much they love this industry despite the challenges that accompany it? I get to read silly manuscripts and talk about how I would personally edit them?

After three days in this program, I am slowly adjusting to the pace and cadence of what is expected of us here. And yes, it is hard, but it will be extremely rewarding. Not to mention, I have already made so many connections, learned an incredible amount of information, and have begun to experience this incredible, ancient city.

I’m also beginning to form an impression of what my career could look like. This does, unfortunately, come with the realization that Seattle is not a great place for me to settle down given the location of publishing houses around the world, but I remain hopeful with the guidance of my mentors at the course. One of the most important lessons I’ve learned here is that working in publishing requires a commitment to people first and foremost. It’s an industry that relies on trust and connection – and this is difficult to do when working remotely. I am curious to see how this will play out as I look for jobs.

These last two days I have finally been able to see the city more – taking walks along the River Cherwell and finding new cafes to work at. I am looking forward to this weekend, though, when I will be free to leave Exeter for longer periods of time and explore the museums, shops, and parks – maybe even a trip to the Cotswalds…

I am exhausted, but happy. Busy, but at peace.

Looking forward to updating after the first full week is completed.

From Oxford, With Love,

Haley