During fall 2012, I fell in love with copy editing.
The beginning
Going into college, I wanted to be a reporter for a magazine. I thought it would be fun to get to interview musicians and get to ask all the questions I had growing up. Who doesn't want that?
The job
At The Shorthorn, the staff changes every semester through hiring and rehiring processes, which gives the staff a chance to change desks to explore other areas. When I began the job, I had the intention of changing desks after a semester or two, but at the end of the fall, the current Copy Desk Chief announced she would not be returning, and the position would be open. So I applied and got the job.
I spent the full calendar year of 2013, 3 semesters, as Copy Desk Chief and loved it. During that time, I attended the Texas Intercollegiate Press Association convention in Fort Worth and received honorable mention in the on-site headline writing competition. I attended the College Media Association convention with two other editors in New Orleans and got to network with other student publications. I also revised The Shorthorn's style guide for the first time.
In spring 2014, I stepped down from being an editor to improve my personal copy editing skills and to get some experience in page design. This time allowed a break and preparation for a summer as Digital Managing Editor, Copy Desk Chief and E-newsletter Manager. This fall, I am the Digital Managing Editor, which has been a challenge for me, because I am no longer copy editing on a daily basis.
The dream
Because of that, I try to find every opportunity I can to edit, including offering help to classmates and coworkers.
Only time will tell if I'm able to make a life of copy editing, but one thing I know for sure is that copy editing will be a part of my life.
This is very inspiring! Hopefully you can make a life of copy editing, because your passion for it is admirable. I want to interview musicians and report about music just like you wanted, but that could change. Check out my blog:
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Thank you for the kind words! I may not get to live out what I thought was my dream, but I discovered my true passion along the way. Even if that changes again, I think we all owe it to ourselves to do what we love.
DeleteWay to go for your dream! Very cool that you're getting those incredible opportunities to continue doing what you LOVE. I have a passion for journalism as well, but be proud of yourself for being able to do it as a JOB while in school! I have to admit I am jealous. Keep it up!
ReplyDeleteI am grateful I've been able to begin my professional career so early. Thank you for the encouragement! If you're ever interested in pursuing that passion while you're still in school, I'm happy to talk to you about the steps I've taken.
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