So, as my friends and family well know, I have always been an avid reader. I devour books, of any kind! For as long as I can remember, one single thought has crossed my mind, and my lips, on many occasions: "If only I could get paid to read all day." Well, until about a year ago, I thought those words were just a big pipe dream...something pretty much unattainable.
All of that changed with a simple Facebook post: Rachel Harris was looking for an intern/assistant, and in exchange, she would give some industry info to that person, as well as give them practice and advice in whatever area of writing/publishing they were interested in. Lucky for me, after reading through countless applications in response to her request, and doing some interviews, Rachel chose me!
My experience as Rachel's assistant was life-altering. I can't even imagine where I would be if it weren't for working with her for a year. Not only did I learn alot about what an author does, but I learned a lot about myself...that I have some natural editing abilities, and I really enjoy proofreading. (I know, I'm crazy!) About half-way through my year of working with Rachel, I began thinking about what I really wanted to do for the rest of my life. I am currently a middle/high school English teacher. I love working with students, and watching them learn and grow. But I discovered I was even more passionate about well-written, well-edited books. So I began looking for master's degree programs in publishing.
And the best program I found is the MA in Publishing program at Kingston University in London. For the same price as a two-year program here in the states (which really didn't seem to measure up anyway) I can complete the program in ONE year, AND live in London while I do it! I mean, this is a no-brainer, right? So, I will be applying to the program, and praying that I get in!
Hopefully this blog will go from me sharing the process of getting into Kingston's publishing program to actually sharing what it's like to be a part of the program, as well as living 'across the pond.'
Crossing my fingers (and toes!),
Ashley
All of that changed with a simple Facebook post: Rachel Harris was looking for an intern/assistant, and in exchange, she would give some industry info to that person, as well as give them practice and advice in whatever area of writing/publishing they were interested in. Lucky for me, after reading through countless applications in response to her request, and doing some interviews, Rachel chose me!
My experience as Rachel's assistant was life-altering. I can't even imagine where I would be if it weren't for working with her for a year. Not only did I learn alot about what an author does, but I learned a lot about myself...that I have some natural editing abilities, and I really enjoy proofreading. (I know, I'm crazy!) About half-way through my year of working with Rachel, I began thinking about what I really wanted to do for the rest of my life. I am currently a middle/high school English teacher. I love working with students, and watching them learn and grow. But I discovered I was even more passionate about well-written, well-edited books. So I began looking for master's degree programs in publishing.
And the best program I found is the MA in Publishing program at Kingston University in London. For the same price as a two-year program here in the states (which really didn't seem to measure up anyway) I can complete the program in ONE year, AND live in London while I do it! I mean, this is a no-brainer, right? So, I will be applying to the program, and praying that I get in!
Hopefully this blog will go from me sharing the process of getting into Kingston's publishing program to actually sharing what it's like to be a part of the program, as well as living 'across the pond.'
Crossing my fingers (and toes!),
Ashley
