With a passion for creative writing and reading ever since I was in grade school, I have turned a simple hobby into a lifestyle through my education and employment experience. My love for words and how they can come together to create thousands of different narratives helps me thrive in a world circled around storytelling. The coursework I have taken at GVSU has taught me a great deal about the editing and publishing process, highlighting each step it takes from reading a manuscript to printing for publication. My studies have also given me insight on what a published piece requires and looks like, improving my ability to fully tell a story. Working as a bookseller has gifted me with excellent knowledge of books in every genre and how they connect with readers. My additional role as a gift specialist has led me to have great and careful attention to detail, as well as proficient organization and the ability to quickly learn new organizational methods. My internship with Oakland County Times has opened me up to experience a different side of the writing world, one in which I spend time connecting with people and learning their news-worthy stories. I have gained stronger communication skills, as well as more knowledge of what it is like to write something outside of an academic context. I also have over four years of experience working with and instructing children and adults, which has taught me how to work, solve problems, and communicate with people of all ages. Tutoring has taught me wonderful patience in stressful or undesirable situations. I have enjoyed every moment of my academic career, as well as the additional experience I’ve gained to better improve myself as a writer. I’m very passionate about all things related to reading and writing, and I’m so fortunate that I get to take something I used to love doing in my free time and turn it into a career.