Question 1

What kinds of writing does BrainScramble actually publish?

Accepted Answer

Personal essays, op-eds, poetry, short fiction, theatre excerpts, interviews, and media reviews. The magazine has a wide editorial range and encourages writing on whatever members want, provided it goes through editing and approval.

Question 2

Is the Berkeley branch connected to UC Berkeley officially?

Accepted Answer

The Toronto branch is explicitly not affiliated with any university and is independently run. The site notes the magazine is now bi-coastal, with members encouraged to work across branches, but no formal university affiliation is stated for either branch.

Question 3

Can I join if I am not a writer? What other roles exist?

Accepted Answer

Yes. BrainScramble accepts writers, editors, visual artists (traditional, digital, photography, mixed media), and marketing members who handle social media, poster design, and brand graphics.

Question 4

Do visual artists need to own their own equipment?

Accepted Answer

Camera and lighting equipment should be owned prior to joining, but the magazine notes there are resources available to borrow equipment.

Question 5

Is this a paid or nonprofit organization?

Accepted Answer

BrainScramble is a reader-supported nonprofit. It accepts donations from readers and grants from foundations, but editorial decisions are made independently and are never influenced by donors.

BrainScramble Magazine at Berkeley