I am one of those people who started writing as soon as I could hold a crayon. When you’d ask me, “What do you want to be when you grow up?” I always said, “An author.” My teachers used to let me stay inside and write during recess. I had an illustrator and everything. We wrote story after story. Construction paper and staples created a book we were proud of.
Needless to say, I’ve been in love with the written word from a very young age. In high school, I would devour any piece of literature I could find. I even won the reading award for the most books read. My English teachers always told me I had talent. I started thinking about what I would major in while at college. Journalism was something I’d always loved, and I knew I wanted to pursue a career in writing, so it seemed like a no brainer.
College. Wow. How much fun was that? Way, way too fun. I still managed to have an over active social life while excelling in school. My professors were amazing. No lie. Absolutely, incredibly, amazing. I was pushed to take unique assignments, and I did whole heartedly. One of my professors said, “You’re really good at this,” after I did an assignment on this guy who would go around and pick up trash on the campus. My professor said I was good at taking things that may not seem that exciting, but finding that right angle and really making it an interesting piece. He recommended me to the largest newspaper in the southeast, and soon after I started doing correspondence work. Feature stories were my passion since it was the more creative side of newspaper writing. I covered everything from interviewing a psychic who worked with police to find a killer, to going to an elementary school and watching kids read to dogs through a pet therapy program.
I only made $60 an article for the newspaper I worked for. Not a lot at all. My professor said, “Be prepared to take a brown bag lunch every day. Journalism is a hard living.” I took that to heart. My parents were (are) hard workers. They instilled in me a drive and desire to work, but they also gave me something to strive for. I had a lifestyle I wanted to keep, and I needed to be financially stable in order for that to happen. I met with my advisor (who I love and trust), and we talked about my options. She suggested scientific writing. I needed to minor in biology, so I did. Wow, was that hard? I cried after every test.
After college, I took jobs in public relations. I worked for a year and a half before my boyfriend (now husband) and I woke up and said we were going to move. Three weeks later, and I’m in Colorado. That was five years ago.
Colorado is amazing. I took a job working in publishing, but it was for scientific reports. I started writing long pieces of fiction. I was using my editorial skills. I was growing as a writer. I met some amazing local authors and people who share the same passions as I do. I dove in. I read as much as I could about the craft of writing, took classes, workshops, went to conferences. I was a dry sponge looking to soak up as much knowledge as possible. When I dive in, I dive in. Pulling me out can be next to impossible.
I started doing freelance editing, and I eventually applied to Month9Books, where I am now the Senior Editor and Acquisitions Editor. I’m polishing my YA horror novel, and I’ve gotten amazing feedback on it.
I have specific goals in mind. Some people may call me picky, and that’s okay. We all have our own goals. I know what mine are, and I know I’ll reach them, because I won’t stop until I do. I’ve overcome a lot, and I know I’ll overcome more.
This is an ongoing journey. I’ve met some lifelong friends along the way. I even have the privilege of being the editor and critique partners of these God sent friends.
I’m thankful for the opportunities I’ve had, and I’m thankful to know all of you.
To be continued…
Courtney Koschel has been writing since she could hold a crayon. She has worked as a journalist, editor, technical writer, and technical editor. Young adult fiction is near and dear to her heart, which is why she writes YA and all of its glorious sub-genres.
Tonia Marie Houston is a mother, writer, poet, bookworm, and blogger. When sheís not chasing her three spider monkeys, she spends her time revising a young adult novel about life after death and second chances. Though she began to pursue her career later in life, she hopes to inspire and motivate other writers to put their best book forward.
This native Texan now lives with her Scottish hubby in North Ayrshire, Scotland, where she wanders the moors in search of William Wallace. She has been a guest blogger on Writer Unboxed and is currently working on the sequel to her YA supernatural novel, Touched by Darkness.
Jamie Raintree writes what she likes to call everyday fairytale love stories, featuring the little moments in life that are truly magical. She lives in Arizona with her husband and daughter and is currently editing her second novel.
Jani Grey is a South African ambivert, writer, reader, optimist, and bacon enthusiast. When her boss isnít looking she writes, revises, or edits YA Urban Fantasies in between work. Sheís sneaky like that. Sheís a NaNoWriMo addict and is currently working on two NaNo novels.
Rebecca Fields is a modern gypsy, roaming from place to place in search of ñ well, sheíll let you know when she finds it. Writing has become a way for her to share her adventures, both real and imagined. Along with her on her journey are her son and an assortment of rescued animals.
bwtaylor75
July 13, 2012 at 9:28 am
It must have been nice knowing you always wanted to be a writer, at least I would think it was nice. That explains a lot about you. You aren’t picky, you simply know what you want and are passionate about it. I would call that a strength.
After reading your journey so far, I would say it has been almost the exact opposite of mine (except for the whole picky and soaking things up like a sponge part). But that’s what makes each writer’s journey so fascinating, they are all so different. And that’s part of what makes connecting with other writers so much fun.
Your drive, focus, and smarts have served you well on your journey. I’m sure they will lead you to the promised land of publication too. We’re all looking forward to that day. Until then, we’ll just have to settle for cheering you on. Go Courtney, Go!!!
Courtney Koschel
July 27, 2012 at 6:42 am
Thank you so much for the kind words, Brian. You have no idea how much I needed to read this today. I was having an awful day yesterday, and I haven’t had a chance to come back and read all these comments since I’ve been back from vacation, but wow. I’m amazed at the awesomeness that is this community. Thank you for being a part of it. I’m excited for all of us–good things are coming.
Tonia Marie Houston
July 13, 2012 at 1:23 pm
How did I befriend such interesting, talented, amazing, and capable people? You are amazing.
You inspire and motivate. Here is an example: I suffered from a migraine for two days, but I had deadlines and writing goals to accomplish. I wanted to curl up in bed with no lights on and bemoan my stupid head. But- I thought about your drive and that nothing gets in your way, ever. So I asked myself, “How important is this to me? How bad do I want it? And what would Courtney say?” It was easy to find my answer so I said suck it up, Tonia-girl. After family, this is the most important thing in my life to me. It’s like chocolate, I crave it every day.
That is what you do, that is the far-reaching positive influence you have. I admire, adore, and cherish you.
So, thank you. And, like Brian, you’ll always find me in your corner.
Courtney Koschel
July 27, 2012 at 6:44 am
You’re a blessing in my life. I’m amazed that I was able to randomly find such incredible people. The internet is a God send. It’s people like you who push me to be a better writer–a better person. Your journey is going to be an amazing one, and you know I’m here to help you in any capacity I can. It’s going to be so freaking exciting!! I’m squeeing as I type this
Thank you for the kind words. They mean a lot to me
Rebecca
July 13, 2012 at 9:58 pm
Picky is good. Picky keeps you from settling. You know what you want and you’re going to get it. That’s one of the many cool things about you. There are always going to be those who try to deter your success, but know that you’ve got a solid team behind you. We’re ready to cheer you on, critique, listen, read and/or kick ass if you need it
Courtney Koschel
July 27, 2012 at 6:45 am
You are such a dear friend, Rebecca. I’m so glad you messaged me on Facebook that time. It opened up a door to a beautiful friendship that I cherish. Your writing is brilliant, your imagination is just as crazy as mine, and our conversations are always full of passion. We share a lot, and I can’t wait to share more. I feel like I’ve gotten to know you and your family even though we’re states apart, but distance is nothing when we have computers. Thank God for those. Love you, friend.
Jamie Raintree
July 14, 2012 at 2:08 pm
No wonder you’re such a successful person at such a young age. You’ve already been hard at work! I love a girl who knows what she wants out of life and goes for it. Congratulations on following your dreams.
Courtney Koschel
July 27, 2012 at 6:47 am
I can honestly say I’ve been working my rear off since I was 16. I’ve always been one of those people who knew what they wanted, and I’m also one of those people who goes for it. My parents were happy that I was the only child (out of three) who never changed their major. Personally, I wish I would’ve slowed down a bit, lol. College went by way too fast!
Thank you for the kind words, hun. I’m loving following your journey as well. You’re a dedicated woman (who loves a schedule…and I love that about you, lol), and we need to meet up since we’re in the same state!
Jamie Raintree
July 27, 2012 at 11:28 pm
I know what you mean! Tonight I was just thinking…I’ll never be a kid again! Remember when we couldn’t wait to be grown up?
Heather Reid
July 18, 2012 at 4:58 am
Courtney, I think Tonia already said everything that was in my heart. You are an inspiration, you push me and encourage me to be a better writer. When I want to whine and throw in the towel, I think of you and push forward. All your hard work is paying off in dividends. Next stop, the moon! You’re a success because you’re passionate, hardworking, and determined. Not to mention super talented! You’ve been an amazing role model for me and for so many people. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.
Courtney Koschel
July 27, 2012 at 6:49 am
I really appreciate your words. I’m so excited, honored, and thrilled to be a part of your journey. To be a part of someone’s dreams is a huge honor. I couldn’t ask for a better friend and soul sister. I’m so happy we decided to start the H&C venture together. My husband was like, “Did you know that if you Google chocolate, y’all’s blog comes up after Hershey’s?” That’s HUGE! I was stoked about that. I’m glad we can be a resource for other writers. It means the world to me.
Love you. Thank you for being amazing
Jani
July 18, 2012 at 1:29 pm
Wow. Your drive is something to admire, and I do. I wish I’d know where I was meant to be earlier in life, but if I did I probably wouldn’t have ended up where I am right now. It’s a good thing. Be picky about everything, because at the end of the day, you have to please yourself first.
Courtney Koschel
July 27, 2012 at 6:50 am
You’re right, Jani, the decisions we’ve made are what got us where we are. Boy have I made some bad ones, but I don’t regret them. I’m here now because of them, even if they were ridiculously bad and painful. It’s been a pleasure to read about your journey. I can’t wait to read more