1. 2011
English/Marketing
Intern Portfolio
By Benjamin Gentry
Included within this portfolio are all documents and/or forms completed or
created by Benjamin Gentry for his position as English/Marketing Intern for
Amoskeag (May 2011-December 2011). This includes but is not limited to:
internship time sheet, updated resume, bi-weekly and monthly reports, employer
information assignment, and a three-year business plan.
Benjamin Gentry
Amoskeag: The Literary Journal of SNHU
12/11/2011

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Table of Contents
Completed Time Sheet.................................................................................................................................. 3
Employment Application Letter .................................................................................................................... 4
Updated Resume .......................................................................................................................................... 5
Bi-Weekly and Monthly Reports and Reflections ......................................................................................... 6
Internship Report for the Month of May 2011 ......................................................................................... 6
Internship Report for the Months of June and July 2011 ....................................................................... 11
Internship Report for the Months of August and September 2011 ....................................................... 13
Condensed Amoskeag Marketing Intern Report for Summer of 2011 ................................................... 15
Condensed Amoskeag Marketing Intern Report for September of 2011 ............................................... 17
Internship Bi-Weekly Report #1 (Monday, October 3 – Sunday, October 16, 2011) ............................. 17
Internship Bi-Weekly Report #2 (Monday, October 17 – Sunday, October 30, 2011) ........................... 19
Internship Bi-Weekly Report #3 (Monday, October 31 – Sunday, November 13, 2011) ....................... 20
Internship Bi-Weekly Report #4 (Monday, November 14 – Sunday, December 4, 2011) ...................... 21
Internship Bi-Weekly Report #5 (Monday, December 5 – Sunday December 18, 2011) ....................... 22
Condensed Amoskeag Marketing Intern Report for October of 2011 ................................................... 24
Condensed Amoskeag Marketing Intern Report for November of 2011 ............................................... 25
Employer Information Assignment ............................................................................................................. 26
Literary Journal Statistics Comparison Charts ............................................................................................ 29
3-Year Business Plan ................................................................................................................................... 31
Amoskeag Survey for 2010 and 2011 Contributers .................................................................................... 38
Amoskeag Survey Results ........................................................................................................................... 39
Interview Questions .................................................................................................................................... 43
Interview with George Geers ...................................................................................................................... 44
Interview with Diane Les Becquets ............................................................................................................. 49
Revised List of Contacts for Advertising and Marketing ............................................................................. 54
Amoskeag Author Spotlight Interview – Philip Dacey ................................................................................ 60
Amoskeag Author Spotlight Interview – Richard Dokey ............................................................................. 62
Amoskeag Author Spotlight Interview – James Black ................................................................................. 64
Amoskeag Author Spotlight Interview – Marco Bisaccia ............................................................................ 67
Amoskeag Blog Post – “What is an Amoskeag” .......................................................................................... 70

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Completed Time Sheet
Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday Total Total Hours:
Week 1 - May 16-22 40 60 80 3 120
Week 2 - May 23-29 60 70 30 110 4 1/2
Week 3 - May 30-June 5 30 90 120 4
Week 4 - June 6-12 60 30 60 2 1/2
Week 5 - June 13-19 105 70 2 11/12
Week 6 - June 20-26 75 40 1 11/12
Week 7 - June 27-July 3 45 3/4
Week 8 - July 4-10 45 30 60 30 2 3/4
Week 9 - July 11-17 45 3/4
Week 10 - July 18-24 60 30 1 1/2
Week 11 - July 25-31 60 60 2
Week 12 - Aug 1-7 40 30 1 1/6
Week 13 - Aug 8-14 60 60 40 60 3 2/3
Week 14 - Aug 15-21 60 30 1 1/2
Week 15 - Aug 22-28 0
Week 16 - Aug 29-Sept 4 60 40 1 2/3
Week 17 - Sept 5-11 50 40 60 2 1/2
Week 18 - Sept 12-18 60 60 45 2 3/4
Week 19 - Sept 19-25 75 80 40 120 5 1/4
Week 20 - Sept 26-Oct 2 45 45 30 2
Week 21 - Oct 3-9 75 60 60 60 4 1/4
Week 22 - Oct 10-16 60 150 60 60 60 6 1/2
Week 23 - Oct 17-23 70 30 40 90 150 6 1/3
Week 24 - Oct 24-30 60 40 50 30 60 40 4 2/3
Week 25 - Oct 31-Nov 6 60 40 40 60 120 100 7
Week 26 - Nov 7-13 30 135 30 60 60 130 7 5/12
Week 27 - Nov 14-20 90 60 30 3
Week 28 - Nov 21-27 60 60 2
Week 29 - Nov 28-Dec 4 120 60 120 35 85 60 130 10 1/6
Week 30 - Dec 5-11 70 60 45 60 120 120 7 11/12
Week 31 -Dec 12-18 70 200 90 120 200 140 13 2/3

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Employment Application Letter
Benjamin Gentry
336 Sandown Rd.
Chester, NH 03036
(603) 370-2530
benjamingentry@gmail.com
Mr. John Smith
Smith Inc.
123 Address St.
Beverly Hills, CA, 90210
Dear Mr. Smith:
I'm writing to express my interest in the Creative Marketing position listed on Monster.com. I have
experience researching, marketing, and developing blogs and other forms of social media. I have worked
as a marketing intern for Amoskeag – the literary journal of Southern New Hampshire University.
My responsibilities included thorough research and information gathering, creating organized reports
and charts to present findings, and applying those findings to improve the marketability of the journal. I
developed and maintained an official blog for the journal – by both implementing existing materials and
creating my own unique content. While much of my work was independent, I also met regularly with the
editorial board and the editor to present and discuss the journal’s progress.
Experience has taught me to efficiently complete assigned tasks and goals with little to no supervision. I
have worked with the editor, as well as the editorial board, to solve problems and find creative solutions
that advanced the journal’s marketability.
Thank you for your consideration.
Benjamin Gentry

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Updated Resume
BENJAMIN GENTRY
336 Sandown Road, Chester, NH 03036 • (603) 370-2530 • benjamingentry@gmail.com
SPECIAL SKILLS
• High-level comprehension in written and spoken French
• Proficient in MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint; typing skills
EXPERIENCE
GAMESTOP, Derry, New Hampshire
Game Advisor………………….......October 2010 – Current Date
Game Advisor…………..…………October 2009 – January 2010
Game Advisor……………………..October 2006 – January 2007
• Process used item trades and file games in an organized manner.
• Help customers with any inquiries using computer database and/or
knowledge of the store
• Work on register while clearly communicating with customer
• Assist coworkers and direct/aid customers during holiday rushes
AMOSKEAG, Manchester, New Hampshire
Marketing Intern…………………….May 2011 – December 2011
• Researched and compiled information into concise and organized
reports and charts
• Developed and maintained Amoskeag’s official blog
• Presented monthly reports and findings to editorial board during
board meetings
• Created 3-year business plan for the literary journal
EDUCATION
SOUTHERN NEW HAMPSHIRE UNIVERSITY, Manchester, NH
Bachelor of Arts, Creative Writing/English (Expected)
May 2012
• President’s List
• On the board of the Manatee Student Literary Journal
MANCHESTER COMMUNITY COLLEGE, Manchester, NH
Associates Degree, Liberal Arts
May 2010
• 3.75 GPA - President’s List
ACTIVITIES/HOBBIES
• Wild-life photography
• Creative Writing
• Film Studies
REFERENCES Given upon request

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Bi-Weekly and Monthly Reports and Reflections
Internship Report for the Month of May 2011
Overview Summary of Work Completed:
On May 17, 2011, I officially began volunteer (later to be internship) work for Amoskeag
by meeting with the journal‘s editor, Michael Brien, at Southern New Hampshire University. We
engaged in a discussion of where exactly Amoskeag was at this point and where Mr. Brien and
the rest of the staff, as well as the university, would like to take it. After receiving some
information and several ideas of where to start, I began research on Amoskeag two days later –
on May 19th.
I started my work by creating a rough draft of a time journal to collect information,
thoughts, ideas, and questions as I researched. Since Mr. Brien had suggested taking a look at
Amoskeag‘s presence on New Pages (www.newpages.com), Duotrope Digest
(www.duotrope.com), and Poets & Writer‘s (www.pw.org), I looked extensively into all three. I
then searched Amoskeag (and the literary journal market in general) on my own, via Google, and
discovered both Amoskeag‘s official online web page as well as a fourth literary journal website
called Every Writer‘s Resource (www.everywritersresource.com).
On Saturday the 21st, after collecting a base understanding of Amoskeag‘s presence in the
literary journal world, I searched for nine of the top literary journals in order to learn some of the
secrets behind their success that might be applied to Amoskeag. After researching what was out
there, I decided that the following nine journals provided a good variety of university-affiliated,
popular, and commercially successful magazines: Agni, Alaska Quarterly Review, Antioch, Five
Points, Louisville Review, Missouri Review, Ploughshares, Southwest Review, and Virginia
Quarterly Review.
Upon researching these nine other literary journals, I stumbled upon two very large areas
of improvement that Amoskeag should consider: an electronic submissions manager and an
online shopping cart or store (the former previously suggested by Mr. Brien). I looked into some
of the online shopping solutions that the nine journals presented as well as online store solutions
in general. I also devoted some time to researching electronic submissions managers – and
subsequently found the Council of Literary Magazines and Presses.
On Tuesday, May 24th, I received an e-mail from Michael Brien requesting that I create a
survey that would gather information on Amoskeag from some of the author‘s that were
published in the Spring 2011 volume. While replying to Mr. Brien with the survey I had created,
I mentioned the CLMP and asked his opinion on it. I then continued my research into other
electronic submission managers in case the subscription fee to CLMP was too expensive.
Submishmash, Green Submissions, and Tell It Slant, were the three prominent options I
discovered and consequently looked into. Each of the three had its pros and cons. Before
finishing my research for the day I decided to search how many of the nine literary journals I

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chose had Facebook pages as it would be a free form of easy advertisement and promotion for
Amoskeag.
The next day, on the 25th, I received a reply to the survey rough draft I e-mailed to Mr.
Brien. After reworking the survey and sending the final draft back to Mr. Brien for confirmation,
I returned to researching the second large area of improvement that I believe Amoskeag should
look into – an online store or shopping cart. The first two options I found, 3dCart and Shopify,
both seemed too extensive and expensive for the needs of Amoskeag. Luckily, with a bit more
digging, I managed to find two free alternatives – LiteCommerce and Ecwid.
On Friday, May 27th, I received e-mail confirmation from Michael Brien to send out the
survey. Once I had individually sent the survey out to each author, I registered an account on
Writer‘s Market and found Amoskeag as well as the other nine literary journals.
The next day, May 28th, I accumulated and organized the information I had collected on
the nine literary magazines. Then, with the help of the statistics listed on Writer‘s Market – as
well as the other sources previously mentioned – I began work on an excel sheet to clearly
present a comparison of the ten literary journals (including Amoskeag, of course). On Thursday,
June 2nd, I completed inputting the data for the literary journal statistics comparison sheet.
Friday, the 3rd, I polished the excel sheet and created three bar graphs so that the
information would be both presentable and easy to digest. I then received an e-mail from Mr.
Brien about New Pages‘ Literary Package. At request, I read over all of the information about the
―LitPak,‖ searched New Pages‘ web site once again, and found several journals had created and
uploaded flyers. I then looked over a couple of these flyers in order to get a feel of how
Amoskeag‘s competitors are advertising.
Suggestions and Findings:
Links for suggestions and findings mentioned below are included in the following section.
The two main areas that I decided to look at in order to receive increased media exposure,
higher quality submissions, and more subscriptions for Amoskeag are an online store and an
electronic submissions manager.
Firstly, looking at an online store, I believe that an easier way to purchase sample copies
or subscriptions will help promote both the sales and exposure of Amoskeag. The simple fact is
that people are far more likely to purchase or subscribe to a product if it is only a simple matter
of a few computer clicks. I believe many interested in Amoskeag may be put off by the current
form of transaction that the literary magazine offers (having to send out an e-mail or mail in a
check.) In fact, one of our published authors in the Spring 2011 edition, James Black, put it this
way in response to the survey I sent out:
―I encouraged supporters, via my own website, to go to yours and buy, and a
number of them commented on the circa-1998 feel of things there. Some found it

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hard to navigate and couldn't figure out how to buy (though this may have been
prior to the April 18th on-sale date, it still seems a little silly to have to mail a
check when establishing a Paypal account into which payments could go is so
easy and cost-effective).‖
I think Mr. Black is spot on with his evaluation of Amoskeag‘s web presence, and while
the site is a solid start and indeed professional looking, some more stream-lined features and
additions would certainly be welcomed. After researching nine of the most prominent literary
magazines, I discovered that seven of them included some form of an online store, and if
Amoskeag is to compete I believe it‘s a necessary tool.
The largest and most reputable option for an online store would probably be, as Mr.
Black mentioned, PayPal. This would arguably be the quickest and simplest way to include an
option to buy sample copies or subscriptions of Amoskeag online and I think it is definitely worth
looking into further.
If PayPal isn‘t a good fit for Amoskeag, however, I did look into a handful of other
options with the best being a site called Ecwid. Ecwid offers an entirely free shopping cart option
without requiring any real maintenance or knowledge of internet source code. Having watched
some of the tutorials on the website and seen some online stores in action, I can say that the
software looks incredibly user friendly and professional for both the merchant and customer.
While researching online store options I also came across an interesting third find – seven
out of nine of the aforementioned literary journals could be found for purchase by searching on
Amazon. It appears that Amazon achieves this through a separate organization called
MagazineExpress (which is, in turn, owned by EBSCO Industries inc. – a reputable and
scholarly source). While I couldn‘t find a straightforward way to submit a literary magazine to
MagazineExpress‘ store online, it might be possible to contact them and see how Amoskeag
might go about finding a place on the store. Though this option might prove more difficult than
the first two, it could potentially also put any worry about managing a store out of mind.
Moving along to the second main area I focused upon, I feel as though an electronic
submissions manager is a much needed resource for Amoskeag – for similar reasons as an online
store. Not only would electronic submissions present a cleaner, simpler, and more organized
system for both authors and editors, but it would also broaden the scope of submitters, increasing
the likelihood of more high quality submissions. Once again, seven out of nine of the top literary
journals have some form of an electronic submissions manager on their web pages.
After beginning my research on possible electronic submissions managers, I came across
the Council of Literary Magazines and Presses (CLMP). I believe that this organization could
easily accommodate Amoskeag‘s need for a submissions manager as well as several other
important resources that could potentially aid the literary magazine in the long run. CLMP not
only offers a wide range of toolkits, business models, and publishing guides, but the organization
would also bring a certain level of prestige to Amoskeag. In fact, all nine of the literary
magazines I included in my comparison survey were found to have CLMP accounts (some of
which use CLMPs electronic submission manager).

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The downside is that though a CLMP membership should only cost Amoskeag 75$, their
electronic submissions manager would likely cost another $330. Due to the number of tools and
the amount of prestige given, I believe the 75$ is certainly worth the membership with CLMP.
However, if the extra $330 is out of the question, I did research other available electronic
submissions managers.
The most prominent and professional looking program, aside from CLMP, is an
organization called Submishmash. While the submissions manager looks very slick and easy to
use there is still a price point of $10 a month (for the option that is not ad-supported) – which
would be much less than CLMP.
Surprisingly, there is a comparable option to CLMP and Submishmash that is entirely
free called Green Submissions. Considering that it appears as simple as the other two options
(though some of the prestige and professionalism might be lost), I think this option is worth
looking into – even if only for a test-run.
While an online store and an electronic submissions manager are the two main tools I
believe Amoskeag should consider adding to its website, I do have a handful of other suggestions
that I believe Amoskeag could benefit from.
Firstly, I think the creation of a professional looking Facebook page would be an
incredibly easy and free way to not only promote Amoskeag but also potentially keep
subscribers, authors, and followers updated with any announcements, releases, and readings that
the literary journal might have scheduled. All but one of the nine literary journals I researched
had a Facebook presence and in today‘s world of social networks, I feel as though it is almost
expected.
Secondly, the web site I mentioned above in the summary, Every Writer‘s Resource,
allows literary magazines to register and upload information for free. Considering that it is one of
the first websites that crop up when doing a Google search on literary journals, I think it would
be a good idea to get Amoskeag registered and included. As for the other three main sites
(NewPages, Duotrope, and Poets & Writer‘s), Amoskeag‘s information needs to be updated –
another interview or review would also be a good idea.
Thirdly, I definitely agree with Mr. Brien on the matter of reaching out to more
independent book stores either through direct contact or by signing up for one (or more) LitPak
programs that organizations such as NewPages offer.
Finally, whether Amoskeag decides to go forward with a LitPak program or not, I like the
idea of a flyer to grab attention. I think it would be worth creating one to bring out to local book
stores, libraries, and any other public areas that will take them.
List of Online Resources:

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Literary Journal Homepages:
AGNI: http://www.bu.edu/agni/index.html
Alaska Quarterly Review: http://www.uaa.alaska.edu/aqr/
Antioch: http://antiochcollege.org/antioch_review/
Five Points: http://www.fivepoints.gsu.edu/index.html
Louisville Review: http://www.spalding.edu/louisvillereview/default.htm
Missouri Review: http://www.missourireview.org/
Ploughshares: http://www.pshares.org/
Southwest Review: http://smu.edu/southwestreview/
Virginia Quarterly Review: http://www.vqronline.org/
Online Store Options:
PayPal: https://www.paypal.com/
Ecwid: http://www.ecwid.com/
Magazine Express: http://www.magazineexpress.com/
Electronic Submissions Managers:
CLMP: https://www.clmp.org/about/sub_mgr_form.html
Submishmash: http://www.submishmash.com/
Green Submissions: http://www.greensubmissions.com/
Other Resources:
Every Writer‘s Resource: http://www.everywritersresource.com/
Questions and Topics of Discussion:
Have two copies of the 2011 edition of Amoskeag been mailed to NewPages so that they can
write another review? Is the interview for Duotrope the only one that Amoskeag has done and
how did it go about being organized?
Has Mr. Brien heard of Sycamore Review? Though they appear larger than Amoskeag they don‘t
seem to be as large as some of the other literary journals yet still manage to have an impressive
web presence (www.sycamorereview.com).
The really interesting thing about Sycamore Review is that they have local Barnes & Noble‘s
stores listed as retailers that carry their magazine. Has Amoskeag ever inquired into selling at
Barnes & Noble‘s? Would this be worth looking into – if even possible?
Which online store option and which electronic submissions manager should I pursue? Will I
need to help install either/both of these tools or does Amoskeag have a separate individual to
work on the journal‘s online space? If they do not, would it be worthwhile to hire someone in
order to create a more impressive web presence?

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Should I move forward on creating a Facebook page for Amoskeag? If so, would I create it or (as
stated above) is there someone else who works on the online resources?
Should I also work on a flyer for Amoskeag both to send out to NewPages and also bring to
schools, libraries, book stores, etc?
Internship Report for the Months of June and July 2011
Overview Summary of Work Completed:
Having not finished the May monthly report until halfway through June, just before I met
with Mr. Brien on the 21st, I have decided to skip a complete June report and instead tie the
month‘s work into the July report below.
On Saturday, June 25th, I began researching book stores and libraries in New Hampshire
began compiling lists of their locations and contact information in a Word document.
During the first week of July, I looked into New Hampshire Writer‘s Project again to
obtain information on Mr. George Geers as well as get a sense of their direction, purpose, and
any connection with Amoskeag. I then e-mailed both George Geers and Diane Les Becquets
requesting to interview both of them for Amoskeag.
Next, I looked at Hippo Press‘s website to see if there would be any way we could
advertise for Amoskeag with them. I discovered that they do appear to review literary journals
and there doesn‘t seem to be a fee for doing so. Going off of this information, I also looked into
the Concord Monitor and Union Leader for similar offerings. I then continued and completed
lists for both bookstores and libraries in New Hampshire that have or might consider carrying
Amoskeag.
On July 9th, I edited the survey that I had sent out previously to the authors of the 2011
edition of Amoskeag so that I could e-mail it to seventeen of the 2010 edition authors. I sent out
the e-mail to the seventeen authors individually but so far (as of August 6th) I have only received
four replies. After sending out the e-mails I wrote up some interview questions to print out and
bring along with me when meeting with Mr. Geers and Mrs. Les Becquets.
On July 10th, I cleaned up and edited the word document I‘ve been using to catalogue my
research, information, etc. I then e-mailed Mr. Brien to inform him of my progress and have a
general check-up.
July 12th, I met with George Geers, the Executive Director of the New Hampshire
Writer‘s Project, and interviewed him about his thoughts, concerns, and suggestions on
Amoskeag. Mr. Geers and I also discussed how the literary journal and his organization might
work to form a mutually beneficial collaboration. I followed up the interview by e-mailing Mr.
Geers some information on Amoskeag and thanking him for his time.

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On July the 19th I began transcribing the interview I recorded of Mr. Geers into a word
document. A little over a week later I completed both a rough draft and final draft of the written
out interview (complete at eight pages).
Suggestions and Findings:
This past month and a half‘s work has led me to another two main suggestions for
Amoskeag to look at. The first is to send out copies of Amoskeag to Hippo Press and the
Concord Monitor in order to potentially get a review in both newspapers. I believe this would be
a simple and easy way to get the word out to a demographic of readers that would easily be
interested in subscriptions and submissions.
Not only would a positive review of Amoskeag in these notable New Hampshire papers
attract subscriptions and submissions but it could also attract readers and writers to Southern
New Hampshire University by affiliation – potentially increasing enrollment in the writing
program.
Getting Amoskeag reviewed by Hippo Press seems to be as simple as e-mailing the
Books Editor, Lisa Parsons (lparsons@hippopress.com), and requesting that she take a look at
the journal. Concord Monitor can be reached similarly by e-mail or by simply submitting an
event or news via their website (www.concordmonitor.com).
The second main suggestion I have would be for Amoskeag to further collaborate with
NHWP. Mr. George Geers clearly stated that Amoskeag has NHWP‘s full support and that he
would be glad to help out in any way.
Some suggestions that we arrived at in the interview were as follows:
Mr. Geers could bring copies of Amoskeag and/or information to the wide number of
events he goes to.
Amoskeag is more than welcome to link our website to NHWP‘s or give Mr. Geers some
information that he could potentially put up on the site.
Mr. Geers also mentioned that Amoskeag is free to post events and information via
NHWP‘s Facebook page.
It is clear to me that this would be a very beneficial collaboration and I strongly believe
that Amoskeag should meet with George Geers again to further discuss how we might combine
our efforts in order to reach the readers and writers of New Hampshire (or New England and
maybe even the rest of the country).
Finally, a third and minor suggestion would be to contact the book stores and libraries on
the lists that I have created in order to see if they are perhaps willing to carry Amoskeag. During
my research I found that some of the libraries do hold an older edition of the journal and I
believe sending a newer volume will only help exposure.

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Ultimately, I believe that connecting with the book sellers and libraries of New
Hampshire should probably be placed on the back burner until some reviews and collaborations
are made. However, I don‘t see any harm in reaching out to some of the smaller stores – even
just in order to get their opinions and thoughts.
Internship Report for the Months of August and September 2011
Overview Summary of Work Completed:
On August 2nd, I met with Diane Les Becquets, the director of the Creative Writing MFA
program and interviewed her about her connection to Amoskeag and any thoughts or ideas she
might have going forward.
Next, I prepared all of my findings and research from the previous two months before
meeting with Mr. Brien at the university on August 9th. We went over the report that I had typed
up and discussed the interview I had with Professor Les Becquets. We also discussed how we
would be moving forward with marketing for Amoskeag as well as the possibility of using the
electronic submissions manager, Submishmash.
From August 11th to the 19th I worked on transcribing the interview I had recorded with
Diane (which eventually came out to seven pages in length) and kept e-mail correspondence with
Mr. Brien to update him on my progress.
On August 30th, I received an e-mail from Mr. Brien about the first of Amoskeag‘s
monthly board meetings which would take place on Friday, September 9th. He requested that I
type up a condensed report of the work we had completed over the summer so that I may present
it to the board.
For the next week, until the 8th of September, I worked on the condensed summer report.
I also did some extra research in order to make sure what I would be presenting was valid and
important. I kept e-mail correspondence with Mr. Brien to make sure the report would suffice.
On September 9th, I met with Mr. Brien at 4pm, half an hour before the board meeting, in
order to finalize the summer report and make sure all was in order for the meeting. I then
presented my report to the board at 4:30pm and stayed for a little while to discuss ideas and
directions that Amoskeag would be pursuing this year.
Next, on September the 14th, I e-mailed Mr. Brien some of my ideas as to where we
should go after we had discussed several different outlets at the board meeting. I then began
work on collecting all of the advertisement opportunities we had discussed in e-mail
correspondence and that I had found online during research and created a single document to
place them in.
On September 15th, I dove into the Submishmash (electronic submissions manager for)
account that had been set up for Amoskeag and cleaned up the presentation as well as inspected
how the manager worked and what plan Amoskeag was currently set up on. I then looked into

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what programs, if any, other literary journals were using for their blogs and if it would be
beneficial for Amoskeag to set up a blog of its own.
The next day, I worked more on the Submishmash page before continuing work on the
potential contacts and advertisers portfolio that I had previously started. I also did a little bit
more research on more advertising opportunities.
On September 20th, I met with Mr. Brien at the school to show him the changes I had
made to the Submishmash account and exactly how the manager worked. We discussed potential
advertisers, a facebook page, blog, and electronic submissions. I also asked if Mr. Brien could
work on some descriptive blurbs for the various submission genres on Amoskeag‘s
Submishmash account. Finally, he asked me to look into another program called Open Source
Journal to see if it might be a better fit for Amoskeag.
On the 21st, I received the genre description blurbs from Mr. Brien and added them to the
Submishmash account. I then took a thorough look into the Open Source Journal website and
some other companies that were using the electronic tool. Open Source Journal looked like it
might be a little too internet code-heavy and not too user-friendly. I then found a very helpful
wordpress website that both showed how Amoskeag might blog and had several ideas for
marketing a literary journal. Finally, I e-mailed Mr. Brien about all of the above findings.
On the 23rd of September, I looked into book fairs and other outlets to add to the
advertising opportunities and contacts list. After a little bit more research I compiled a thorough
list and e-mailed the finished product to Mr. Brien. I also found a lot of solid information on
AWP‘s website and research further.
On September 25th, I received an e-mail from Mr. Brien outlining the creation of a three-
year business plan for Amoskeag via the US government‘s small business association website. I
then created a Facebook page for Amoskeag, filled in the basic information, and completed basic
set up so that the page was ready to go live when/if needed. Once the Facebook page was
completed, I e-mailed Mr. Brien about both the business plan and the page.
I then created a wordpress blog for Amoskeag and did some more extensive research into
even more advertising outlets and contacts that might prove to be useful tools for the company as
it moves forward.
On the 28th of September, I looked more thoroughly into the business plan template
provided by Mr. Brien via the Small Business Association (SBA). I then researched business
plans for other literary journals and found a great example that I proceeded to read through in its
entirety. Next, I looked into the documents I had both created and received from concerning
Amoskeag and proceeded to e-mail Mr. Brien for a little bit more information on Amoskeag‘s
history and sale‘s numbers etc.
On September 30th, I e-mailed Dr. Robert Seidman (Amoskeag journal‘s resident
historian and board member) to set up a meeting in order to piece together a more comprehensive

15. Gentry 15
outline of Amoskeag‘s history and inner workings. I then set up the basic information and format
for the wordpress blog so that it was also ready to go live when/if needed.
Reflections and Findings
I have found that I have been enjoying the work for Amoskeag for the most part and
believe that it is helpful both in acquiring workplace skills and in gaining valuable information
about the publishing and writing world. Though much of the internship has focused on research
and e-mail correspondence, I still feel as though I am an employee providing reports and
completing tasks for an employer.
I have come across some struggles due to my limited knowledge of the company, as well
as marketing and literary journals in general, but I have found that with the proper research and
simply asking for others‘ input or information I have been able to overcome these problems.
Finally, I think a highlight of the internship so far has been the board meeting held on
September 9th. Though I was slightly anxious to present my information to the members of the
board, it felt exhilarating being included in the discussion of how to move the journal forward. I
felt like the board meeting presented an excellent example of how potential meetings might go in
the future depending on what career I find myself in.
Condensed Amoskeag Marketing Intern Report for Summer of 2011
I began my marketing research for Amoskeag in mid-May by collecting information from
nine of the leading university-affiliated literary journals in order to better understand what
Amoskeag would need to do to grow in both submissions and subscriptions. I soon noticed that
Amoskeag was missing two important facets that several of the top journals had been using – an
electronic submissions manager and an online store.
I first researched into a number of electronic submissions managers and came to the
conclusion, along with Michael Brien, that Submishmash would be the best option. I believe the
submissions manager will be a perfect fit for Amoskeag with its free to very low-cost price point,
simple and clean layout, and ease of use. Not only will this essential tool help increase
submissions but it will also severely cut the time and work currently required to transfer and read
physical submissions.
While I am still looking into online store options (I believe PayPal would prove an
obvious choice) and trying to gauge what might be best for Amoskeag as it continues to grow as
a literary journal, I do believe that a simpler way to purchase copies of the magazine online will
become more and more essential down the road. Similarly to an electronic submissions manager,
an online store could also help streamline the process and minimize the effort needed for both
editor and reader alike.

16. Gentry 16
In order to improve the quality of both Amoskeag‘s physical and online presence, I sent
out a brief survey to some of the published authors in the 2011 edition of the journal. I received
feedback from eight of the authors. The general consensus was as follows:
1. The majority of authors heard about Amoskeag from the Poets & Writers ad or other
online advertisements/reviews for the journal.
2. The majority of authors believed that an electronic submissions manager would
indeed make submitting easier for them.
3. When asked if an online only journal would be preferred the response from the eight
authors was a resounding no – almost all of them stating that they greatly appreciated
the print presentation of Amoskeag.
4. The responses were mixed when the authors were polled as to how they felt about
www.amoskeagjournal.com. A handful replied that the web site was merely ―okay‖
while two felt that it was well done and one other felt that the site was antiquated and
needed serious revision. Despite differing opinions on the quality of the web site,
many authors commented that they would like to see more information, reviews, and
samples.
I believe the feedback from this survey will help us decide what direction we want
Amoskeag to head in next. It would appear, from this small consensus, that the literary magazine
is on the right track with its printed presentation and online advertising and simply needs to
expand by both improving the website and adding an electronic submissions manager.
During the rest of my time with the internship this summer, I looked at how Amoskeag
was being marketed and publicized and how we can work even further to get the magazine out
there. It quickly became apparent that both Mr. Brien and the former editors of Amoskeag had
clearly been working on just this – with listings on important websites such as New Pages and
Poets & Writers.
I think we would all like to see Amoskeag continue to go in this direction by updating
information on the aforementioned websites, looking for more opportunities to get reviewed and
interviewed by sources such as Hippo Press and Concord Monitor, and joining the social
networking world by both creating a Facebook page and getting connected to the Council of
Literary Magazines and Presses (CLMP).
Finally, while on the topic of networking, I have met with both George Geers and Diane
Les Becquets on behalf of Amoskeag to discuss how the journal might collaborate with New
Hampshire Writers’ Project and the SNHU Creative Writing MFA program respectively.
The most obvious and simplest suggestion here would of course be to create a solid link and
network between the three entities‘ web presences to maximize exposure and strength of writing
across the board. I think we would all agree that having a few more meetings to further discuss
collaboration between Amoskeag, NHWP, and the MFA program would only be beneficial to all
involved.

17. Gentry 17
Condensed Amoskeag Marketing Intern Report for September of 2011
While continuing my marketing research and advertising campaign this past month, I have
explored both new and previously discussed avenues of growth and marketing.
Firstly, I‘ve set up a basic Facebook page and Blog (via wordpress) for Amoskeag. Both pages
are ready to go public whenever the board feels it is the right time. I wholeheartedly believe that these
outlets, alongside perhaps Twitter, will help boost the exposure of the magazine and make the strong
social connections we are looking for.
Secondly, I have worked alongside Mr. Brien to clean up and format Amoskeag‘s Submishmash
account – it should be noted, however, Submishmash is in the process of changing their name to
Submittable. Regardless, the page is now up-and-running and ready for the green light to accept
submissions at any time. Michael and I have discussed a more extensive test run by potentially asking
some of the authors submitting for the 2012 edition if they can resubmit to the electronic submissions
manager.
Alternatively, I have also looked into another electronic submissions manager known as Open
Journal Systems (OJS) and believe that it would be a wonderful way to both receive submissions and
potentially create an online supplement of short fiction, poetry, and photography if we decide not to go
with Submittable. OJS is also completely free (aside from getting an ISP domain to host the software)
and I‘m sure Bob Seidman can attest to its efficiency and usability due to his familiarity with the
software.
Thirdly, I have looked further into setting up a PayPal account so that users on the Amoskeag
website will be able to click a simple ―Subscribe‖ or ―Purchase‖ button. PayPal looks to be immensely
simple to set-up and maintain and states that it will not charge you until you actually get paid by
customers. When PayPal does charge, they charge 2.9% + 30¢ per transaction (for accounts receiving less
than $3,000 a month via transactions). For Amoskeag, this fee would amount to about 50¢ per $7 one-
year-subscription.
Fourthly, I‘ve compiled an extensive list of possible reviewers, advertisers, local book stores and
libraries, MFA programs, and book fairs for future reference. I will, of course, add to this list throughout
the semester and hope that it will help Amoskeag to get the local and national recognition it deserves.
Finally, we have started putting together a three-year Business Plan for Amoskeag – and with the
help of the board, hope to complete it by the end of this semester. I have begun crafting a mission
statement and some objectives and goals, but I will certainly require the input of the board in order to
achieve the most attractive and persuasive plan possible.
Internship Bi-Weekly Report #1 (Monday, October 3 – Sunday, October 16,
2011)
On Tuesday, October 4th, I went to the Shapiro Library at SNHU and did some research
on the history of the literary journal for the business plan and website. I found nearly all of the
issues of Amoskeag, and its previous incarnations, all the way back to the very first issue in 1984.
I took some notes from the editor‘s introductions and the format of the journal and then later

18. Gentry 18
began forming a mission statement for the three-year business plan Mr. Brien has me working
on.
The next day, I met with Dr. Robert Seidman and interviewed him about his opinions and
ideas on Amoskeag seeing as he has been on the board since its inception. Dr. Seidman showed
me Open Journal Systems (an electronic submissions manager that might fit with Amoskeag) in
more detail. While I had briefly looked at the software before, I was impressed to see it in action
and researched the company‘s website more thoroughly when I returned home. I then e-mailed
both Dr. Seidman and Mr. Brien.
On Saturday, October the 8th, I received an e-mail from Mr. Brien about another
advertising opportunity. I looked into the opportunity and replied to Mr. Brien with my opinion.
Preparing for the upcoming board meeting on the 11th, I then researched into PayPal more
thoroughly to decide if it is something we can bring to Amoskeag.
On Sunday, I researched into several other literary journals in order to see how they had
grown to national levels. I then worked on the wordpress blog I had created for Amoskeag. The
next day, on the 10th, I put together a condensed report of my work in September to present to the
board.
Tuesday, October 11th, I attended the Amoskeag board meeting at 3:30 and presented my
report and ideas on how the journal might move forward. I highlighted the importance of a
Facebook page, blog, PayPal account, electronic submissions manager, and advertising
campaign. I also discussed how Mr. Brien and I had begun working on a three-year business
plan. After the meeting, Mr. Brien, Laurelyn Estes (the editorial assistant), and I stayed late and
discussed what we would work on before the November board meeting.
The next day, I finished the final touches on Amoskeag‘s Facebook page and published it
so that all could see. I then e-mailed the members of the board to let them know that the
Facebook page was up and that they could e-mail me at any time if they had any questions or
requests to include information.
During the weekend of October 15th and 16th, I worked on the journal‘s wordpress blog. I
created and added information for both an ―About‖ page and ―Submission Guidelines‖ page. I
also created a header, tweaked the format of the website, and added a link (or widget) to the
Facebook page. Finally, I finished a rough version of a mission statement for the business plan.
Reflections and Findings
Once again, I think the highlight of my work this past two weeks has been the board
meeting. I found that I was less nervous about presenting my ideas and my report to the board
since I knew that they would be receptive and that I was well prepared. I enjoyed being able to
throw out my ideas and concerns and discuss them in a responsible and business-like manner. I
felt very accomplished to have many of the board members thank me for my work and time after
the meeting.

19. Gentry 19
On the other end of the spectrum, I did struggle at first with the concept of creating a
business plan. However, I found that simply discussing the issue with Mr. Brien helped to solve
the problem and I now feel like a have a more solid direction.
Internship Bi-Weekly Report #2 (Monday, October 17 – Sunday, October 30,
2011)
On Monday, October 17th, I e-mailed Mr. Brien about the business plan, Amoskeag‘s
wordpress blog, and the submishmash account in regards to the High School and University
contest. I then worked on the blog and typed up a welcome message in preparation of the blog‘s
formal ―launch.‖
Throughout the week, I researched several additional advertising and marketing outlets
that would potentially help increase Amoskeag‘s exposure. I found more than a handful of
previously undiscovered resources including www.litline.org. I then began research on the
possibility of receiving a grant to help fund Amoskeag.
On Friday, October 21st, I received three e-mails from Mr. Brien about Submishmash, the
blog, and the business plan. I replied to both Mr. Brien and Laurelyn (Amoskeag‘s editorial
assistant) about the contest and Submishmash. I then edited the Submishmash account in order to
prepare for contest entrants. Next, I created an account on www.bplans.com and downloaded a
sample business plan – which I then looked over. Finally, I created an interview prompt to send
to the authors of the 2011 edition magazine in order to prepare for an ―Author Spotlight‖ series
on the blog – I e-mailed the prompt to Mr. Brien for approval.
On Sunday the 23rd, I received an e-mail reply from Mr. Brien about the interview
prompt and the Submishmash account. I first edited the Submishmash account a little bit more,
and then began researching nine of the authors from the 2011 edition who had previously replied
to the survey I sent in the summer. Of the nine, I chose seven authors to send the interview to –
and edited the prompt for each individual before sending.
I then switched back to my research on marketing opportunities and grants and found out
that the Council of Literary Magazines and Presses is the best route for Amoskeag to get the
kick-start it needs.
On Monday, October 24th, I received e-mail responses from three of the authors I sent the
interview prompt to. Two of the three provided solid interview responses that would be ideal for
the blog. I read through each, formatted them, and did some very slight editing. I then retooled
the main menu on the wordpress blog and added the ―Author Spotlight‖ section. Finally, I e-
mailed Mr. Brien with the attached formatted interviews in order to get his opinion.
Throughout the rest of the week, I continued research on marketing and advertising
opportunities and created a new, revised list, specifically for potential reviewers that could offer
positive publicity for Amoskeag. I worked on the list, adding mailing information, contact
information, and a paragraph explaining why each review resource would benefit Amoskeag.

20. Gentry 20
Reflections and Findings
Though it has been a slightly slow two weeks, I have enjoyed researching and creating
the blog. Researching into marketing opportunities, reviewers, and advertising has helped me get
a better grasp on the industry and I believe my findings will be beneficial to the growth of
Amoskeag. The creation and retooling of the blog has allowed me to include some of my own
creativity and writing.
I have, at times, struggled a little bit with finding work to do. However, I quickly realized
that there is almost always information to compile, research for a better understanding, or simply
improve upon. I am excited to show my findings to the board in the meeting on November 8th.
I think my favorite part of these two weeks was when one of the authors I sent the
interview to was so pleased and impressed by my (and Amoskeag‘s) follow-ups and inclusions
of his ideas and works, that he e-mailed Mr. Brien and thanked him profusely while also
requesting to sign up for a subscription. I felt accomplished having actually seen some
substantial results.
Internship Bi-Weekly Report #3 (Monday, October 31 – Sunday, November 13,
2011)
On Monday October 31st, I finished my list of reviewers. I then received an e-mail
response from James Black to the interview questions for the Amoskeag Author Spotlight feature
on the blog. I formatted and edited the response and saved it in a word document. Next, I e-
mailed Mr. Brien with the updated version of the interviews and finally checked up on the
submishmash account and blog.
From Wednesday to Friday I worked on the business plan for Amoskeag, received and
responded to various e-mails from Mr. Brien about the upcoming board meeting on November
8th, set up the Philip Dacey Author Spotlight Interview to go live on the Blog at noon on the 8th,
and finally began work on my October report for the board.
On Saturday, November 5th, I finished the October report for the board meeting. I then
added and scheduled Richard Dokey‘s Author Spotlight Interview to go live on the blog on
December 8th at noon. Next, I worked on the blog and tweaked some of the menus and layout.
Finally, I attempted to better understand the amoskeagjournal.com‘s coding in preparation of
linking to the blog from the main site. On Sunday, I received an e-mail from Mr. Brien about the
business plan and worked on it more. I then e-mailed what I had of the business plan so far back
to Mr. Brien.
Tuesday, November 8th, I attended the board meeting with Mr. Brien, Laurelyn, and the
editorial board. I brought my laptop and plugged it into the large screen in the conference room
to give a brief presentation of my work on the blog so far. I also presented my October report and

21. Gentry 21
discussed upcoming projects with the board. After the meeting, I met with Mr. Brien and
Laurelyn and discussed future objectives and goals to work on.
From Wednesday the 9th to Sunday the 13th I continued e-mail correspondence with
both Philip Dacey and Richard Dokey concerning my plans for the Author Spotlight Interviews –
and in the case of Mr. Dacey, letting him know that his interview was now live. I then worked on
the blog further and began moving over the 2011 edition and its excerpts from the old website to
the blog. Finally, I researched into other literary journal blogs to get more ideas on how they are
maintained and what content is placed on them.
Reflections and Findings
Leading up to the board meeting on November 8th, I felt somewhat stressed about getting
everything completed. This was particularly the case in respect to trying to figure out the ins and
outs of the old amoskeagjournal.com website. One of the greatest problems I have come across
so far during this internship is solving the issue of how to move all of the old content (over a
hundred excerpts as well as past issue pages) from the website to the blog. Eventually I began to
solve this problem simply by trying a number of different routes before I was able to move the
2011 edition and its excerpts over successfully. There is still a lot of work to do, however.
As I mentioned in the last report, I was very excited to present the blog and my report to
the board. This was once again my favorite part of this two week period, especially since the
blog received a unanimously positive reaction. I was actually slightly taken aback by how much
the editorial board appreciated my work. I definitely felt as though my struggles had been worth
it for that moment.
Internship Bi-Weekly Report #4 (Monday, November 14 – Sunday, December
4, 2011)
I decided to do what I suppose is actually a tri-weekly report since the week surrounding
mid-terms and Thanksgiving was slightly hectic and I didn‘t get as much internship work done
as usual.
From Monday, November 14 to Sunday, November 20, I corresponded via e-mail with
Mr. Brien about the blog, the website, the submishmash/submittable account etc. I continued
work on the blog by further tweaking the appearance, the menus, and the layout. Next, I started
research on the Amoskeag Mills and the history of the word Amoskeag in order to create a blog
post to attract more views and explain the commonly asked question of ―What is an Amoskeag?‖
Finally, I sought out Karlyn Morissette, the director of social media at SNHU to receive her
opinion on the blog and expanding publicity. She approved of what I had accomplished so far
and told me to continue on the same path.

22. Gentry 22
From Monday the 21st to Sunday the 27th, I continued research on the Amoskeag mills
but realized that if I wanted to get some solid information from a reliable source I would need to
check out a book on the mills from the library. Setting the project aside, I then moved the 2010
and 2009 issues and their excerpts from the old site to the blog.
On Monday the 28th, I met with Mr. Brien and showed him how to login to the
Facebook, wordpress blog, and Submishmash accounts. I also showed him the basic features of
each and what I had done on each. We discussed how we might be able to use the two staff
accounts available on the free version Submishmash to accommodate the dozen or so board
members.
For the remainder of the week, I worked diligently on moving over all of the content
from the old website to the blog. By Sunday, December 4th, I had moved over the complete back
catalog of over 25 past issues (several of which included excerpts) as well as all images,
information pages, etc. I then edited and tied everything together on the blog so that it was
aesthetically pleasing. Finally, I made sure that the links and layout worked and everything was
easily accessible.
Reflections and Findings
While these three weeks were generally a lot of tedious work involving moving content
from one site to another, I actually enjoyed the feeling of satisfaction received when looking at
the final product. I am proud to have my name attached to the Amoskeag blog and feel like my
work will hopefully pay off for the journal.
Like most weeks, I once again hit a wall in my progress when attempting to write up the
blog post. This time, however, knowing that it was not due until later, I was able to focus on the
tasks that I could complete.
Finally, meeting with Mr. Brien in order to show him the inner workings of the social
media websites was definitely a learning experience. I realized that I had to work on my
communication skills to accurately explain how everything worked. Luckily, I feel as though we
could communicate clearly enough that he got the gist of each website and was hopefully
comfortable enough to use them in the future.
Internship Bi-Weekly Report #5 (Monday, December 5 – Sunday December 18,
2011)
On Tuesday the 6th, I read through the fourth Author Spotlight Interview I received from
Marco Bisaccia and then edited and formatted it. I uploaded it to the blog and scheduled it to go
live February 8th, 2012. I then went back to my research on Amoskeag Mills (having previously
checked out the book I required from the library).

23. Gentry 23
On Wednesday the 7th and Thursday the 8th I continued research and work on the ―What
is an Amoskeag?‖ blog post. I e-mailed Mr. Brien about the blog and preparation for the final
board meeting on the 13th. I then edited the blog to include a new author spotlight link on the
front page and updated the Facebook page as well.
On Friday the 9th I finished the blog post about Amoskeag, added photos and then did a
final remodel and tweaking of the blog. The next day, on the 10th, I edited and re-formatted the
business plan to bring to the board meeting. I also began work on the November report for the
meeting and prepared my presentation by making sure I knew my way around Submishmash
(and that the secondary account I created was working).
On Sunday the 11th I finished the November report for the business meeting. I then
created a powerpoint of the photo submissions to show during the meeting (as requested by Mr.
Brien). I e-mailed Mr. Brien the new business plan and November report to look over. Finally, I
created an outline for the portfolio (required by Mr. Brien as well) and began work on it. On
Monday, I worked a little bit more on the portfolio, checked up on the blog, and printed out
copies of the business plan and November report.
On Tuesday, December 13th, I attended the final board meeting and presented my last
report. I showed the members my progress on the blog as well as the powerpoint of the photo
submissions. I also demonstrated to the board how to log in to the Submishmash account and
view and comment on the submissions we had received for the undergraduate contest.
After the meeting, Mr. Brien, Laurelyn, and I discussed final goals and objectives and
anything else that needed to be wrapped up. Mr. Brien asked if I would be able to catalog the
contributor information for the submissions on the submishmash account. Later that night I
managed to get halfway through the 102 submissions and e-mailed the editorial board step-by-
step instructions on how to view and comment the submissions (both as a reminder and for those
who missed the board meeting).
On Wednesday, December 14th, I finished cataloging the names and information of the
undergraduate contest contributors and e-mailed the excel spreadsheet to Laurelyn.
As of writing this final bi-weekly report, the last task I have to complete is to finish the
portfolio and e-mail it to Mr. Brien. I intend to complete this by Sunday the 18th.
Reflections and Findings
My final few weeks of internship work for Amoskeag were fairly hectic due to having
several papers and finals to worry about as well. However, I managed to stay on track and the
final board meeting was successful. As with the previous board meetings, I once again felt
accomplished and proud of the work I completed. It was also a bittersweet ending since the 2012
edition of the journal still has a ways to go before its April publication date.

24. Gentry 24
I feel as though my work was appreciated, though, and I hope that I will be kept in the
loop. I was asked by Mr. Brien if I wanted to intern again in the spring but since I do not require
the credits I felt as though the position should be given to someone who does.
I definitely think I learned a lot from getting the chance to intern with Amoskeag. Not
only was I able to experience what it would be like to present reports and information to a board
during a meeting, but I also learned a lot about the literary journal industry in general. I feel as
though my time with Amoskeag has opened my eyes to new potential careers in the field of
journalism.
Condensed Amoskeag Marketing Intern Report for October of 2011
With October having come to a close and November just starting, we have seen the
advent of some real growth in respect to Amoskeag‘s online presence. I hope to continue
assisting in this development (as well as the growth of the journal‘s offline presence) by both
following up with and/or beginning the following projects.
Firstly, as I stated in an earlier e-mail to the board, Amoskeag‘s official Facebook page
has gone live and has already begun to grow. However, in order to nurture this growth, we will
need to spread the word and keep the page updated with consistent news and information. I am
currently in the process of searching for the right outlets to use in order to attract our target
audience. I will also work with Mr. Brien to set up a schedule of what should be posted and
when.
Secondly, Mr. Brien and I have gone forward with a trial run for the Submittable
account via the SNHU MFA Student Writing Contest. The electronic submissions manager is
now up and running and ready to accept submissions.
Thirdly, with the help of Mr. Brien, I have continued work on Amoskeag‘s formal
Business Plan. It is our hope that having a structured plan will facilitate Amoskeag‘s future and
allow for a set of goals for the magazine to work toward.
Fourthly, I have begun an Author Spotlight Interviews series by sending out an e-mail
interview prompt to seven of the contributing authors of the 2011 edition of Amoskeag. I have
already received four responses and hope to kick-start Amoskeag‘s blog by publishing Philip
Dacey‘s interview – and follow up by scheduling an author interview to be published onto the
blog each subsequent month.
Finally, that brings me to Amoskeag‘s wordpress blog. Though I am still trying to figure
out the intricacies of Amoskeag‘s official website, I have designed the blog to be a sort of
intermediary source while we look into how to move forward (either through SNHU or by
simply overhauling the current website). I have worked to create a simple design and place some
basic information from the website on to the blog.

25. Gentry 25
Condensed Amoskeag Marketing Intern Report for November of 2011
I would like to begin my final monthly report by thanking Mike and everyone on the
board for being so welcoming to me and including me in these discussions about the journal.
This internship has definitely helped me and I hope that some of my work will be beneficial to
the journal as well. That being said, let‘s delve into the November report.
Firstly, I am pleased to announce that I have managed to move over all content –
including all excerpts – from the old Amoskeag website (www.amoskeagjournal.com) to the new
blog (http://amoskeagjournal.wordpress.com). There are two Author Spotlight Interviews
currently up on the blog and two more queued for January and February. The blog has also seen
over 260 views already. Anyone who performs a simple Google search of any of the various
authors and/or pieces featured in the journal should now find a link to the wordpress blog.
Secondly, I have remodeled the business plan slightly, and for all intents and purposes it
is now complete. However, I‘m sure Mike would appreciate any and all input, ideas, or concerns
in order to further improve the plan. Information will undoubtedly need to be added to it as time
goes on, but it should give everyone a good idea of where the journal is headed in the next three
years and a goal to reach for.
Thirdly, we have received just over 100 entries for the SNHU undergraduate writing
contest via Amoskeag’s Submittable account. Since we are currently doing a test run on the
account, we are still on the free version that only allows two logins. Due to this restriction I have
made one of the logins a general one for all board members. The e-mail is
amoskeagjournal@gmail.com and the password is identity2012. Mr. Brien holds the
administrator account and will be able to assign pieces to the Amoskeag Reader account. Once
pieces are assigned by the admin, everyone can log in, read them, and leave a note (with yes, no,
or maybe) and their name.
Finally, with my last week or so I will be compiling a portfolio of all of my work to date
to pass on to any future interns the journal might take on. I will certainly still be around next
semester and will gladly help in any way I can.

26. Gentry 26
Employer Information Assignment
Ben Gentry
Professor Polley
ENG 490
November 2nd, 2011
Amoskeag Employer Information
Brief History:
Amoskeag started as a literary journal back in 1984 when Southern New Hampshire
University, a small business school at the time, was still known as New Hampshire College. Dr.
Robert Begiebing, a passionate writer and faculty member, envisioned (alongside a small
committee of other faculty members) a small literary journal for the college. New Hampshire
College Journal was born out of this vision and the first issue was published in 1984.
In 2001, the journal changed its name from New Hampshire College Journal to Southern
New Hampshire University Journal, and then changed its name again (as well as its look) to
Amoskeag in 2005. This second name change also kick-started the journal‘s more ambitious
attitude of growing from a small university-only journal to a statewide (and eventually
nationwide) presence.
Dr. Allison Cummings took the helm of the journal in the fall of 2004 and worked to
create a standalone web presence (from SNHU) to complement the magazine. She also managed
to get the journal up on a handful of important web sites like Poets and Writers and New Pages –
therefore increasing exposure, submissions, and subscriptions.
Finally, in 2009, Michael Brien, Amoskeag‘s current editor grabbed the reins and has
continued in Dr. Cummings‘ footsteps with the expansion of the journal‘s exposure. In an

27. Gentry 27
attempt to boost both subscriptions and high quality submissions, I was hired onto the journal
staff as a marketing intern by Mr. Brien.
Amoskeag’s Staff and Structure:
As editor of the magazine, Michael Brien is currently tasked with organizing author
submissions and getting the journal ready to be published. He must work with the board of
directors at SNHU in order to receive funding. He also oversees and works with the editorial
board and ultimately makes the executive decisions in regards to Amoskeag‘s format, web
presence, and publication.
Laurelyn Estes is Mr. Brien‘s editorial assistant. She reports directly to Mr. Brien. Her
tasks include sorting through submissions and getting them to each member of the editorial board
for review, organizing contests and putting up flyers, and keeping track of any and all important
information regarding the journal‘s contacts etc.
The editorial board consists of David Swain, Stephanie Collins, Robert Seidman, Susan
Kennedy, Benjamin Nugent, Julie Baker, Traci Belanger, Allison Cummings, Linda Dyer, and
Kathy Fagley. These ten members are in charge of sifting through the hundreds of submissions
Amoskeag receives and giving general feedback. They also meet once a month during the
journal‘s period of submissions acceptance (September – December) in order to discuss
everything from how the journal should look and feel that year to how better to advertise and
market. MFA Director, Diane Les Becquets, also sits in on these meetings as a liaison but does
not read submissions for review.
Finally, I work directly under Michael Brien as marketing intern for Amoskeag. I am
tasked with researching potential marketing and advertising opportunities, presenting my
findings, and working on any number of projects that will help the journal expand in

28. Gentry 28
subscriptions and submissions. I am also tasked with attending the board meetings and reporting
on my progress. As far as my work schedule and actual work environment are concerned, I am
mostly left to work on my own projects – as well as projects assigned to me – while keeping e-
mail contact with Mr. Brien to ensure that I am keeping on track. This includes but is not limited
to setting up interviews, researching, writing up reports and business plans, cataloging contacts
and information, and meeting with Mr. Brien at least once a month.
Mission Statement for Amoskeag (written by myself and approved by Michael Brien):
For over a quarter of a century, Amoskeag, the literary journal of Southern New
Hampshire University, has focused on the exchange of ideas and visions through short fiction,
poetry, and photography. As the university works to re-shape its future, so too will the journal
assist in the development of its diverse and creative literary culture by collaborating with the
university‘s undergraduate and graduate creative writing programs. Amoskeag will continue to
grow toward a nationally and internationally acclaimed level of creative expression and our
mission will continue to focus upon promoting the creative expression of both aspiring writers
and established authors.

29. Gentry 29
Literary Journal Statistics Comparison Charts
Louisville
Agni Alaska Quarterly Amoskeag Antioch Five Points Review
Established 1972 1982 1983 (2005) 1941 1996 1976
Issues Per Year 2 2 1 4 3 2
Simultaneous
Submissions Yes No Yes No No Yes
Print
Circulation 3,000 2,700 1,500 5,000 2,000 Unknown
Sample Copy $10.00 $6.00 $7.00 $7.00 $7.00 $5.00
Online Journal Yes (60k Readers) No No No No No
Electronic
Submissions Yes No No No Yes Yes
Online Store Yes No No Yes Yes No
Facebook
Presence Yes Yes No Yes Yes Yes
Query
Response Time 2 Weeks 1 Month 1 Month Unknown Unknown Unknown
MMS Response
Time 4 Months 6 Months 4-5 Months 3-6 Months Unknown Unknown
Uses CLMP Yes Yes No Yes Yes Yes
Found on
Amazon Yes Yes No No No Back Issues
Southwest Virginia
Missouri Review Ploughshares Review Quarterly Percent Yes
Established 1978 1971 1915 1925 Owner:
Issues Per Year 4 3 4 4 Not Including Amoskeag
Simultaneous
Submissions No Yes Yes Yes 66.67%
Print
Circulation 6,500 6,000 1,500 7,000
Sample Copy $8.95 $8.50 $6.00 $14.00
Online Journal Yes No No (Yes) Back Issues 33.33%
Electronic
Submissions Yes Yes Yes Yes 77.78%
Online Store Yes Yes Yes Yes 77.78%
Facebook
Presence Yes Yes No Yes 88.89%
Query
Response Time 2 Weeks Unknown Unknown Unknown
MMS Response
Time 2-3 Months 5 Months 1-4 Months 1-3 Months
Uses CLMP Yes Yes Yes Yes 100.00%
Found on
Amazon Yes Yes Yes Yes 77.78%

30. Gentry 30
Issues Per Year
4.5 4 4 4 4
4
3.5 3 3
3
2.5 2 2 2
2
1.5 1
1
0.5
0
Print Circulation
8,000 6,500 6,000 7,000
7,000
6,000 5,000
5,000
4,000 3,000 2,700
3,000 1,500 2,000 1,500
2,000
1,000 Unknown
0
Sample Copy Prices
$16.00 $14.00
$14.00
$12.00 $10.00 $8.95 $8.50
$10.00
$8.00 $6.00 $7.00 $7.00 $7.00 $5.00 $6.00
$6.00
$4.00
$2.00
$0.00

31. Gentry 31
3-Year Business Plan
AMOSKEAG
3-Year Business Plan
Amoskeag: The Literary Journal of SNHU
By Benjamin Gentry
12/10/2011
This business plan is a work in progress and simply meant to give some direction to the editorial board
and editor of the journal. Additions and changes may be made.

32. Gentry 32
Table of Contents
1.0 Executive Summary .................................................................................................................. 33
1.1 Objectives ............................................................................................................................... 33
1.2 Mission ........................................................................................................................................ 33
1.3 Keys to Success ...................................................................................................................... 33
2.0 Company Summary ................................................................................................................... 34
2.1 Company Ownership ............................................................................................................. 34
2.2 Company Locations and Facilities .................................................................................... 34
3.0 Products ......................................................................................................................................... 34
4.0 Market Analysis Summary ...................................................................................................... 34
5.0 Strategy and Implementation Summary .......................................................................... 34
5.1 Marketing Strategy ................................................................................................................ 35
5.1.1 Distribution Strategy ..................................................................................................... 35
5.1.2 Marketing Tools ............................................................................................................... 35
5.1.3 Strategic Alliances.......................................................................................................... 35
5.1.4 Promotion Strategy ....................................................................................................... 35
5.1.5 Pricing Strategy............................................................................................................... 36
5.2 Sales Strategy ......................................................................................................................... 36
6.0 Management Summary ............................................................................................................ 36
6.1 Management Team ................................................................................................................ 36
6.2 Management Team Gaps..................................................................................................... 37

33. Gentry 33
1.0 Executive Summary
Southern New Hampshire University is the publisher of "Amoskeag” Journal. The journal,
which has an annual print run of 1300 issues, is directed to university staff, contributing
writers, university libraries, MFA programs, and literary enthusiasts across the United
States. The management of the journal hopes to increase its print run to 2,500 by the
end of year three. The magazine will be published bi-annually. Sample distribution,
organizational sales, and direct mail to targeted lists of writers and literary enthusiasts
will be utilized to build subscriptions.
Successful execution of Amoskeag’s marketing plan will produce sales revenues in direct
print sales from $100 in year one, $200 in year two, and $300 in year three. An increase
in tuition-based enrollments in the undergraduate and MFA creative writing programs of
the University will increase steadily over the next three years and attribute to the
majority of actual revenue.
1.1 Objectives
The initial objectives of Amoskeag are as follows:
1. To establish a new print and web design that enhances the mission of Amoskeag by
the 2013 publication edition.
2. To enhance collaboration between Amoskeag and the undergraduate and MFA
creative writing programs of Southern New Hampshire University by the fall of 2012.
3. To expand the presence of the journal on a national level through a conscientious
marketing effort including but not limited to: paid advertising, review publications,
and membership in the Council of Literary Magazines and Presses (CLMP) by the
summer of 2013.
4. To hire a part-time editor and university paid assistant editor by 2014.
5. To publish two issues per year by 2014.
6. To triple circulation from around 1,500 to 4,500 by 2013.
7. To triple paid subscriptions from around 20 to 60 by 2013.
8. To attract and recruit new students and use the incoming tuition as means to help
fund publication costs.
1.2 Mission
For over a quarter of a century, Amoskeag, the literary journal of Southern New
Hampshire University, has focused on the exchange of ideas and visions through short
fiction, poetry, and photography. As the university works to re-shape its future, so too
will the journal assist in the development of its diverse and creative literary culture by
collaborating with the university’s undergraduate and graduate creative writing
programs. Amoskeag will continue to grow toward a nationally and internationally
acclaimed level of creative expression and our mission will continue to focus upon
promoting the creative expression of both aspiring writers and established authors.
1.3 Keys to Success
The keys to success are:
Continuing to produce quality editorial content.

34. Gentry 34
Moving into the digital age via improved online presence to attract modern readers.
Advertising intelligently to target audiences via literary mediums.
Sending out copies of the issue for review to as many mainstream sources as
possible.
Attracting new students to the university in order to receive additional funding.
2.0 Company Summary
Amoskeag’s forerunning journal, New Hampshire College Journal, was founded by Dr.
Robert Begiebing and a small group of likeminded professors from Southern New
Hampshire University in 1984 (known as New Hampshire College at the time).
Throughout the years, the journal has evolved and gained recognition within the realm
of literary enthusiasts.
Currently, the journal has taken on a three-year cycle of rotating head editors from the
editorial board. This tactic has ensured that the content and layout of the journal
remains creatively fresh and that the journal is constantly being pushed to grow in new
and inventive ways.
2.1 Company Ownership
Southern New Hampshire University currently owns Amoskeag and subsidizes its
publication.
2.2 Company Locations and Facilities
Amoskeag currently has its office on the Southern New Hampshire University campus at
2500 North River Rd., Manchester, NH, 03106-1045. It is not anticipated that expanded
facilities will be needed for the first few years of the plan. All business, management and
editorial functions are performed on the campus. Printing and publication is outsourced.
3.0 Products
Amoskeag currently publishes one literary magazine per year, released in late April. The
magazine is roughly 120-150 pages in length and strives to include creatively unique
pieces of poetry, short fiction, essays, and photography. It is presently published in
black and white and features a simplistic yet stylish and attractive layout.
4.0 Market Analysis Summary
While the wide variety of the short and manageable pieces allows Amoskeag to attract
most readers, the target audience that should be appealed to as a base audience is most
definitely aspiring writers, English majors and students, literary enthusiasts, and any
members of creative arts groups or clubs.
5.0 Strategy and Implementation Summary
Our strategy keeps in mind the above mentioned niche market. The benefit of having
such a clear and concise target market is that there are specific lists, clubs,

35. Gentry 35
memberships, and other such tools affiliated with that market that can be used to
attract potential subscribers and submitters. The literary and creative arts enthusiasts,
writers, and students are proven to be a loyal clientele and close-knit community. Good
writers and artists alike crave new material in the form of periodicals, like Amoskeag, to
inspire them and drive them. The objective then is simply how to find and inform this
target audience. The strategy is to get the Amoskeag name out there through both paid
and unpaid specific-market-aimed advertising, online and offline social networking, and
solicitation and cooperation with other well known organizations and corporations.
5.1 Marketing Strategy
New subscriptions are both sample and media based. Sampling will be done to both
known literary organization members and to literary mailing lists.
Sample runs will be increased by 200 each year. All cost associated with these sampling
programs are included in the advertising and promotion budgets for those years. A total
of $1,500 will be spent on direct mailed sampling geared to subscription.
All sales projections through this multi-channel approach will reflect the different pricing
and margin considerations pertinent to each.
5.1.1 Distribution Strategy
Distribution of magazines through retail channels are projected at retail less 60%.
Subscriptions through organizations are projected at list less 50%.
All direct sales are booked at full revenue.
Direct sales of magazines are billed to credit cards and drop shipped. The magazine is an
ideal vehicle to promote these sales.
Future sales are planned directly over the internet from the journal’s website.
5.1.2 Marketing Tools
The Council of Literary Magazines and Presses will provide an essential set of tools for
Amoskeag to use as it actively engages in the marketing and advertising fields.
5.1.3 Strategic Alliances
The strategic alliances with Southern New Hampshire University’s undergraduate
Creative Writing program, its Master of Fine Arts Creative Writing program, and the New
Hampshire Writers’ Project will ensure that Amoskeag will quickly grow into one of New
Hampshire’s most prominent literary journals.
5.1.4 Promotion Strategy

36. Gentry 36
Amoskeag’s promotional strategy can be divided into five prongs: interviews, reviews,
advertisements, social networking, and solicitation.
1. Interviews – Amoskeag will actively seek out the correct mediums for interviews
with the editor in order to promote exposure beginning with online sources such
as New Pages, Duotrope, and The Review Review. Interviews will soon after
extend to physical mediums such as newspapers and magazine articles.
2. Reviews – Similar to seeking out possible interviews, Amoskeag will send out
review copies to the leading literary reviewers in order to promote exposure even
further. Amoskeag has already been positively reviewed by New Pages and will
continue this trend by mailing copies to other literary review organizations such
as The Bloomsbury Review and American Book Review.
3. Advertisements – Amoskeag will take advantage of both unpaid and paid
advertising in mediums that appeal to the previously established target market
such as AWP: The Writer’s Chronicle and Poets.org.
4. Social Networking – Modern social networking sites such as Facebook, Twitter,
and a Wordpress blog will significantly help promote exposure of Amoskeag via
“digital word-of-mouth.”
5. Solicitation – Sending issues of Amoskeag to other universities Creative Writing
programs and campus libraries, as well as attending book fairs and tours, will
directly achieve exposure to the journal’s precise target market.
5.1.5 Pricing Strategy
Amoskeag’s literary journal will sell for $6.00 per single back issue.
A one-year subscription is $7.00.
A two year subscription is $12.00.
Future subscription rates are liable to at least double when the journal makes the
leap to a bi-annual model.
5.2 Sales Strategy
Our combined sales strategy of sampling, direct mail, and organizations will result in the
following first year sales goals:
100 one-year subscriptions.
100 two-year subscriptions.
6.0 Management Summary
Amoskeag is managed by the editor and editorial board with assistance from editorial
assistant, designer, art editor, production manager, and marketing intern.
6.1 Management Team
Editor: Michael Brien

37. Gentry 37
Editorial Assistant: Laurelyn Estes
Editorial board:
Traci Belanger
Julie Baker
Benjamin Nugent
J. Stephanie Collins
Allison Cummings
Linda Dyer
Kathleen Fagley
Susan Kennedy
Diane Les Becquets
Robert Seidman
David Swain
Designer: Karen Mayeu
Art Editor: Harry Umen
Production Manager: Phaedra Schmidt
6.2 Management Team Gaps
Work-study, interns, or University paid staff is needed. Also, contributing writers and
artists.

38. Gentry 38
Amoskeag Survey for 2010 and 2011 Contributers
Dear (Author‘s Name):
I am writing you on behalf of the Amoskeag Literary Journal and would like to begin by once
again thanking you for your submission to the Spring 2011 edition. In order to improve the
Amoskeag‘s submission process – as well as the journal‘s market penetration and overall
production – Amoskeag is asking that its authors take a few minutes to provide some helpful
feedback via the completion of the following brief survey. We would greatly appreciate your
feedback and will certainly apply our findings towards creating a more author-and-reader-
friendly publication.
1. How did you hear about Amoskeag?
2. What made you decide to submit your work to Amoskeag?
3. Would a more stream-lined electronic submission program make Amoskeag a more
valuable asset to you?
4. Do you appreciate the printed presentation of Amoskeag?
5. Would you prefer an online version only?
6. What do you think of our web presence (http://www.amoskeagjournal.com)?
7. Do you have any other suggestions, feedback, or comments?
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Benjamin Gentry,
Student Intern,
Amoskeag Literary Journal

39. Gentry 39
Amoskeag Survey Results
Amoskeag Survey Results
1. How did you hear about Amoskeag?
Marco Bisaccia: The Novel and Short Story Writer's Market.
James Black: A professor in my graduate school was taking a position at another school and knew
she couldn't transport all of her books and journals. She bequeathed them to her students. I found
a copy of Amoskeag in the pile, and I enjoyed it. I forgot about it for a time until I stumbled
across a listing for your publication on the Duotrope's Digest website and recalled thinking that
some of my work was compatible with some of what I'd seen you publish.
Philip Dacey: To be honest, can't remember. From Poets & Writers maybe? Or from the New
Pages website?
Richard Dokey: I found it online.
Marta Ferguson: I saw a call for submissions in Poets & Writers.
John Forssen: Amoskeag Review is listed with other literary journals on the web.
Thomas Turman: I found Amoskeag in Poets & Writers[…]
Gerald Wheeler: POETS & WRITERS add
2. What made you decide to submit your work to Amoskeag?
Marco Bisaccia: The Amoskeag web site was […] informational, but more important were the
samples/excerpts of stories, essays and poems from past issues. Those gave me an excellent idea
of the Journal's quality, focus and content. So I was easily able to see that this was a Journal in
which I'd like to see my work, and one in which my story might well fit.
James Black: Hm. Actually, the above answer sort of covers that. I thought we'd be a good fit for
each other. Not to mention the name Amoskeag looks pretty good on my "published in" list. The
appeal of that for up-and-coming brats like myself should never be underestimated.
Philip Dacey: It's a print journal and it's on this end of the country (I'm in NYC after a move in
'04 from Minnesota).
Richard Dokey: I thought it a thoughtful, intelligent journal, one in which I would be proud to
appear.
Marta Ferguson: I checked the website, read the samples, did a little more homework online, and
decided it might be a good place for some of my work.
John Forssen: Short fiction is highly competitive; one submits wherever possible.
Thomas Turman: […] the request for submissions seemed to fit the story I sent you as it was for a
Spring issue (baseball story...).
Gerald Wheeler: professional photo quality
3. Would a more stream-lined electronic submission program make Amoskeag a more
valuable asset to you?