
Do you remember what you said when people asked, “What do you want to be when you grow up?” Most kids don’t say, “I want to be an editor!” Confession: neither did I. It would sure make for a great story, but I never said that.
But now that I have landed here, I really feel at home. Editing allows me to use my talents and skills to help people in a way I hadn’t imagined as a child. I get to do what I love best: help other people reach their potential. My job is to team with you to ensure that your writing is a tool, not a hindrance, in achieving your goals.
Since my plans to be an editor didn’t start with a day-dreaming second-grader—or even a floundering college freshman searching for a major—you may be wondering how I ended up here or how I can help you. These are great questions.
In 2016, a family friend and educational psychology professor, Christi Bergin, approached me to do some content editing for her book. As a former teacher with some writing experience under my belt, I seemed to be a good fit. My interest was piqued, and I said, “Why not?” It turned out that I loved it! It also turned out that I was good at it.
So, I took an editing course and realized two things. First, editing was the job for me. Second, I had been editing and writing for years—just not with that particular job title.
As a teen and young adult, I was entering essay contests and editing papers for friends. As a new college graduate, I found myself writing copy and editing marketing and other materials at a small malpractice insurance company. While teaching school, I was also volunteering as a contributing writer to a local website sponsored by Religion News Service. Later I was coaching friends through their personal statements to help them land a spot in residencies and grad programs. More recently, as a co-owner of a small women’s clothing boutique, I find myself crafting social media posts and product descriptions.
It has looked very different over the years but writing and editing have always been a part of my life.
Why does this matter to you? How can I help you? My experience in a variety of industries and parts of the country has given me a chance to rub shoulders with people from all walks of life. Whoever your audience is, I know people like them and I can help you speak to them. Also, as a teacher, helping is a core part of who I am. Nothing is more rewarding to me than helping someone—you—reach a goal. So, you can be sure that I am as invested in your success as you are.