It wasn’t until college that I became a strong writer. Although I had good grades and my teachers liked me, my essays were riddled with chunky red question marks and dubious slashes. In my favorite subject, English, nothing I turned in ever hit the mark. My writing lacked connection, flow, and structure; the thoughts that made sense in my mind struggled to come across on the page. What finally changed everything for me was revision. In high school, I was so afraid I wasn’t good enough that I refused to ever read over what I’d written or ask for help. I lacked the confidence to be curious. And the lack of curiosity cost me the ability to change, to improve. Curiosity is a powerful tool, transforming failures into buds of growth. Embracing a novice stature and becoming curious about my shortcomings as a writer propelled me to become a straight-A student in my favorite subject.

After earning my Bachelor's degree in English from the University of Minnesota, I worked in publishing in New York City, serving in the editorial department of a publishing house. I learned a lot about the book trade and fell in love with teasing out a book’s potential. While living in NYC, I also participated in writing groups and classes, continuing my growth and remaining curious. I fell into freelancing unintentionally. An acquaintance asked me to help them write their memoir, and I agreed.  The experience blew me away.  Writing a book is an act of vulnerability, and being a part of someone else’s book journey was equal parts humbling and invigorating. I couldn’t get enough.

Anyone can be a writer.  Writing is not something inherited; it is a skill, something you develop and nurture over time, learning from and with others as you go. Majoring in English was an active decision. I wanted to be a better writer, and with each essay written and each book read, I proved I could be.  But a good writer is not defined by a degree. While my confidence grew with professors' positive feedback, what made me a writer was simply writing.

As your editor, I'll apply my educational background and years of experience to help shape your story and develop your skills.