Overcoming Writer’s Block
Ray Bradbury said “Quantity produces quality. If you only write a few things, you're doomed.” This statements rings true especially in the professional world of writing. The only way to advance is to gain experience, however, there seems to be limited opportunities for novice writers to not only write, but to have their writing published. The Privila internship is the exception to this rule, for not only do interns receive ample opportunity to write, but they are also bestowed the holy grail of writing-their articles actually get published.
I entered the writing arena a little late in my career. I graduated with a degree in English Literature and was unsure of my next move. When I could no longer deny my need to write, I finally got around to applying for editorial and publishing jobs. Unfortunately, all of these positions required something that I was lacking: experience. I had no portfolio to speak of, except for my college portfolio which consisted of academic papers and a few creative works. Determined to succeed, I searched for avenues that would allow me to gain writing experience. Fortunately, I stumbled upon the Privila internship.
I must admit that I didn't exactly know what to expect on my first day. Through my phone interview I learned that the company's philosophy was unique and refreshing. The company firmly believed in nurturing creativity and to accomplish this they had built a “coffee shop atmosphere” intended to help the interns relax and write. Although all of this sounded very appealing, I wasn't going to get my hopes up. One my first day I was pleasantly surprised. The office resembled a cozy coffee shop with tables and couches. Good music, not the elevator kind, was played in speakers throughout the office and there were plenty of snacks, free lunches, and drinks to enjoy.
In truth, it wasn't the perks of food and atmosphere that brought me enjoyment for the duration of the internship. It was the wide variety of article assignments and the opportunity to write. I have a voracious appetite for knowledge. I enjoy learning as much as I enjoy writing. This internship fulfilled both of my passions. My article assignments included diverse topics such as global diseases, the health benefits of chocolate, the history of dance music, yoga mats, Katana motorcycles, tropical plants, strength training, replica watches, literary genres,etc. Although my topics didn't always match my interests, I found that this was a good thing because it forced me to leave my comfort zone and expand my writing skills.
It was also a thrill to see my articles published on the Internet. I was so pleased to type my name into a search engine and see a list of my written articles turn up on the results page. By the end of my internship I had written over a hundred articles. The number amazes me because when I look back it doesn't seem like I had written so many articles. I think this is because the writing never felt like work to me, because I was doing something that I love. The internship made me fall in-love with writing all over again and also provided me with a valuable collection of clips for a writing portfolio.
The fates must have been smiling at me, because my experience with Privila didn't end with with my internship. I was fortunate enough to be offered a position as an editor, which I heartily excepted. Now, I enjoy working with new interns and helping them to develop their writing skills. It's an amazing feeling to be able to provide other writers with the opportunity to achieve their dreams. The Privila internship is a giant stepping stone towards achieving a successful career in the writing or publishing industry.
-- submitted by Nelly Hanley, Chicago, Illinois, April 23, 2007
(Journalist via in-house, 2006-2007)
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