Virtual Career Fair: YA Author Jen Calonita

First Name and Position: Jen Calonita, author of young adult fiction novels like Secrets of My Hollywood Life

Degree (if any): Bachelor’s Degree from Boston College where I majored in communications

What made you decide on your profession: I’ve always loved to write and knew I wanted to be a writer. I thought I’d just work in newspapers and magazines. The author part came much later!

How did you get your job: I highly advise an internship. I got one during college at a teen magazine and it gave me a great perspective on what it would be like to actually do that job. As for being an author, I would suggest taking as many writing classes as you can.

Describe a day (or week) in your job: It depends on the day. Some days I can write for five or six hours, other days it is two. I like to have dedicated writing days so I can really focus on my work.

Advice for teens interested in doing your job: Read as much as you can as often as you can. It’s a great resource and will broaden your mind on different types of writing.

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