UBC Professor Turns Crossword Hobby into Major Newspaper Success
BREAKING: Mark MacLachlan, an accomplished chemistry professor and Dean of Science at the University of British Columbia, has transformed his long-time hobby of crossword puzzles into an impressive portfolio published in major U.S. newspapers. Just announced, MacLachlan has seen 75 of his puzzles featured in renowned outlets including the New York Times and the Wall Street Journal.
MacLachlan began crafting crosswords in 1999, initially as a form of relaxation during his busy schedule. “This is what I do in my vacation time and evenings and weekends when I can find 15 or 20 minutes,” he shared in an interview with CityNews. His passion ignited further in 2007 when he submitted his first puzzle to the New York Times.
After several rejections, MacLachlan faced a breakthrough in 2016 when his first puzzle was published in the Los Angeles Times. “I worked harder for that one than anything else that is on my wall,” he remarked, proudly pointing to the framed puzzle displayed in his office.
Creating these intricate puzzles is no small feat. MacLachlan dedicates upwards of 80 hours to each puzzle, starting by developing a consistent theme based on his surroundings and common phrases. “Once I have got a consistent theme, I’ll put that into the grid, fill it with black squares, and start putting words around it,” he explained. He utilizes software to ensure the puzzles remain accessible, avoiding overly obscure words that might frustrate solvers.
As a local cruciverbalist—a term for crossword enthusiasts—MacLachlan is preparing for a busy academic year ahead. Yet, he remains committed to his unique passion. “I will probably dabble in some puzzles until the Christmas vacation and then I’ll have some dedicated time to work on my next ones,” he said.
This remarkable journey from hobby to published work not only highlights MacLachlan’s dedication but also inspires others to pursue their passions outside of their professional lives. His story serves as a reminder that creativity and academic excellence can go hand in hand, impacting both personal fulfillment and public enjoyment.
Stay tuned for more updates on MacLachlan’s upcoming puzzles and his continued contributions to the world of crosswords.
