Over the past four years, I’ve spent a large amount of time in
poetry workshops. At Emerson College, classes are usually no more than 30 people,
and the writing workshops are even smaller. As a Writing, Literature &
Publishing major with a focus in poetry, I took full advantage of the writer
stereotype. At any given time, I more than likely had a large cup of black,
unsweetened coffee in my possession. It didn’t take long for me to replace my
contacts with thick-framed glasses and embrace this new place where I no longer
had to struggle through math and science classes.
Being from Texas, I was enamored with the fast-paced rhythm and concentrated
sprawl of the Greater Boston area, and was quick to call it my second home. Four
years later, I’m still enamored, and have no plans of leaving just yet. One of
the many qualities of Boston that led to my decision to stay is its thriving
scene for publishing and literature.
If you’re a literary nerd like me, you’ll find that it’s nearly
impossible to overlook the plethora of used bookstores in the area. The amount
of books my shelves have accumulated is borderline obscene, and they serve as
my own personal reservoir of both pride and shame. Apart from the bookstores,
it’s no secret that Boston is a hub for publishers. A number of educational
publishers, major and minor, have offices in Boston.
Granted, Boston’s lofty reputation for publishing can be pretty
intimidating to a newcomer such as myself. As I made my way towards graduation,
I began to feel overwhelmed by the amount of opportunities available. Where was
I supposed to start? In keeping with the renowned adage, I knew that I would
never know unless I tried. And now, well into the summer, I’m thankful that I
did.
After being with PSG for a little over three months, I’m certain
that I’ve gained invaluable experience in publishing. I’ve had a chance to
learn about audio file editing, code text with HTML and develop my editing skills
through writing blog posts. I’ve gained a better understanding of educational
publishing—a subject I previously had very limited knowledge of. Apart from
learning, I’ve also developed a tremendous amount of respect for those who
dedicate so much care and effort to the educational cause.
I wouldn’t trade my
experiences in Boston for anything. Over the past four years, I’ve spent
countless hours in used bookstores, hunched over essays, going to poetry
readings and getting to know some truly extraordinary people. I’ve even been trick-or-treating
in Beacon Hill (twice!). I can only imagine where this city will take me next.
Little-Known Facts About Claire
Every summer since infancy, Claire has picked blueberries in East
Texas with family and friends. The daylong pilgrimage usually involves a stop
in the small town of Edom for a slice of homemade chocolate pie.
After spending a semester abroad in France, Claire has vowed to
learn as many foreign languages as she can. She hopes to one day master French
so she can relocate to Paris and enjoy two-hour lunch breaks.
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