Cool Careers in Writing: Experts offer insight for student writers

Panelists for the “Cool Careers in Writing” event hosted by the English department at Washtenaw Community College prepare to share the key to becoming a successful writer. Adeline Griffith | Washtenaw Voice

By Adeline Griffith
Contributer

A few dozen people sat in the auditorium, eager to learn the key to becoming a successful writer at the ninth annual “Cool Careers in Writing” event, a panelist discussion hosted by the English department at Washtenaw Community College.

“Folks get to hear from real people who turned their love of writing into making a living,” said Hava Levitt-Phillips, English instructor and co-host of the event. “The opportunity to ask questions and get answers directly from professionals in the fields is so great.”

Six panelists were featured: a journalist, a self-published novelist, a technical writer, a lawyer, a written communications instructor and an entrepreneurship director.

The panelists discussed different aspects of their careers, everything from how they got started, to their favorite parts, to the struggles they face on a daily basis.

“What I love about my job is that I start every day with a clean slate. There is always a new story to tell,” said Matt Durr, a reporter for MLive. Durr became interested in journalism in high school, but attended WCC with the intentions of earning a history degree. However, he rediscovered his love of journalism when he began working for The Washtenaw Voice, and switched his major.

Adrienne Haywood, a technical writer for Thompson-Reuters in Dexter,  began her college years with a non-writing goal in mind as well. She graduated Eastern Michigan University with a double major in anthropology and English.

“I used to have this illusion that as a technical writer, I’d just sit down alone and write. But it’s technical communications, so I actually communicate with other people a lot. I work closely with the people who talk to our customers every day,” said Haywood. “The biggest challenge is having to argue the value that technical writers have, and getting people to understand what we do.”

Technical writers create things such as instruction manuals, how-to guides and other documents that help people understand complex information.

“When I look for help and it’s there, I’m like ‘hallelujah!’ and that’s the feeling I’m going for,” explained Haywood. “That’s the goal.”

Marze Scott, who published her first novel entitled “Gemini Rising” in October, did not start her career until dealing with some personal struggles that caused her to dive into writing.

“I’m probably the least disciplined person here. I write when the mood hits me, and the mood hits me a couple times a week,” said Scott. “On days I do write, I sit down and make character resumes, which is fun because you’re creating someone.”

Scott continued to describe her process and inspiration. A lot of the characters she creates begin with observing seemingly everyday events. Watching strangers in the hallways or on sidewalks converse and complete mundane tasks are what spark wonder for Scott.

“I like the ‘What if?’ of it all,” said Scott.

Students with an interest in fiction writing were interested to hear from and talk to Scott, even if they were attending for other reasons.

“I came for Marze, actually; I’m always looking for advice,” said Charity Ben, a creative writer who attended the event. “It’s a great opportunity to network.”

As “Cool Careers in Writing” came to a close, attendees were given the opportunity to ask panelists questions individually. Students rushed to the front of the auditorium and crowded around the table to get more personalized inspiration.

Ben was curious if Scott, as a woman of color, felt pressure to make her books diverse. Scott explained to her that she enjoyed writing strong, diverse characters and did not feel any pressure at all.

“I really want to help folks realize that if you love to write, you can make a living doing it,” said Levitt-Phillips. “Too often, we think we have to do something more responsible, or that artistic careers don’t pay. That’s not true. Employers and clients in all industries value written communication skills.”

“If you love to write, don’t give up,” he added.

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