HubPro Editor: Meet Rebecca Schuetz

What is your ideal vacation?

My ideal vacations involve visiting people who mean a lot to me and letting them show me their favorite things about the city. Right now, a friend is in med school in Baltimore, a city where my dad used to live, so I would like to visit there. Some of my family from Taiwan has been spending most of their time in China; I would like see them as well.

Could you briefly tell us a little bit about your previous experience doing professional editing?

I have professional experience as the editorial assistant for FourTwoNine, a national print magazine. I also have experience on the writing side—I still freelance for various Bay Area publications. So I understand what it’s like to have my work edited and take my job as a second pair of eyes seriously.

Could you also talk about your academic qualifications?

I graduated with honors in English from Harvard University. I also taught Reading and Language Arts after my time with Teach For America (quick shout out to the readers and writers of KIPP South Fulton Academy), so I have not only studied English, but I am comfortable explaining points of grammar and writing as well.

What’s your favorite thing about working in the editing industry?

My favorite part is reading about so many various topics—I feel like I am always learning.

What do you like most about editing Hubs, specifically?

I especially like editing Hubs because of all of the strong and unique voices I encounter. When working with a print publication, you often try to get all of the writers to share the feel of the magazine. Here, people are funny, informative, tongue-in-cheek, scientific, or something else altogether, and I can help them work within that voice.

Could you tell us a little bit about your personal process for working on Hubs?

Sure. First I read through the Hub to get a feel for the structure of the piece and the author’s style. Next, I think about the purpose of the Hub, what the writer did that really worked, and what was most helpful for the reader. I then work to make sure all the details—grammar, active voice, clearly organized subtitles, etc.—allow the writer’s strengths to shine through. If I think that the reader would benefit from any extra information, I consult the expert. (Hint: If it is your Hub, that expert is you!)

Is there anything you’d like Hubbers to know about you?

I’m a nerd for reading and writing. Can’t wait to see your work!