Nathalie Taylor
Cal Poly B.A. in English - 1979
Current City/State
Fallbrook, California
Employer & Current Position
Krona Publications, Publicist/Features Writer, since 2009
Provide a brief description of position duties/responsibilities
My work is divided between public relations clients and print media feature writing.
What specific qualities/abilities, skills are necessary for this current position?
Writing, editing and tenacity. Why tenacity? Because there is a great deal of rejection in the print media world.
While at Cal Poly, what resources did you take advantage of that have helped you in your current position?
I was involved with the publication of student literary booklets in 1978 and 1979. I was editor of "Voices" in 1979. This gave me practical experience that was valuable in the print media world.
Prompted by my Senior Project Advisor Dr. Jim Simmons, I entered the Cal Poly Creative Writing Contest/Poetry Division. I placed 2nd! It gave me just the boost of confidence I needed as I began my job hunt in the tough Los Angeles market.
What advice would you give to someone interested in your profession?
Don't take rejection seriously. For every ten publications contacted only one may respond and that response may be a "no." Just continue to submit articles. As Dr. Jim Simmons said, "Keep submitting and you will eventually get published."
I have been divorced since 1989 and did not receive alimony. Because of my Bachelor of Arts degree in English, I have been able to support myself and have even purchased my own home.
In 2004 I happily discovered the San Diego Press Club and San Diego Society of Professional Journalists. These professional organizations host seminars and give practical career advice. They also offer annual writing competitions.
As of October 2011, I have won 31 journalism awards from these two organizations. I have also taken two first place awards and one third place award for short stories entered in the Erle Stanley Gardner Mystery Writing Contest. Why do I consistently place high in these contests? Because of my Cal Poly English degree!
May interested students email you for more information/advice?
Yes. Contact me at Krona Publication