In 2019, The Telling Room published a magazine titled We Gen Z, an anthology of short stories, memoir, poetry, and art from young Maine writers and artists. One of my first short stories, "Music Still Plays," was chosen for the publication, and I had the pleasure of attending their public opening event in Portland, ME. 

Besides hosting writing workshops and publishing opportunities for young writers, The Telling Room also provides writing-centered volunteer and internship opportunities during the summer and academic year. 

At the ages of nine and ten, I wrote the first drafts of a children's novel, which now stands as an example of how one's writing style and voice can most definitely change overtime and with practice! Although I'm slightly embarrassed to be sharing my younger self's work, I feel that it's important to recognize one's personal growth and keep all those drafts--even the embarrassing ones--in the 'archives.' If anything, revisiting older drafts and visualizing improvements can help future writing processes!

From this early publishing experience, I was able to gain skills with drafting, publishing communication and collaboration, and even public speaking. 

Curious about my first published work? You can check it out here!