Heather Allen is in her second semester of the M.S. in Publishing Program at Pace University. She is the Social Media Coordinator for the WNBA-NYC, Social Media/ Marketing Intern for Touchstone Books at Simon & Schuster, and holds a part-time editorial assistant position at Thieme Medical Publishers.
You’ve been involved with the WNBA-NYC for several months. Tell us about your role and how you got involved with the organization.
I am the Social Media Coordinator; I run the Facebook, Twitter and Linked In accounts. I became involved with the WNBA after starting the M.S. in Publishing program in the fall of 2012. I told Professor Denning (WNBA-NYC President) that I was interested in an internship, and since the Social Media position was open, she offered it to me.
How are you revitalizing the organization’s social media presence?
Since I started, I’ve opened Goodreads and Pinterest accounts for the WNBA-NYC. I have been trying to post on Twitter and Facebook 1-2 times per day. During events that I can attend, I also live Tweet, so our followers don’t have to miss out on our events.
Did you always know that publishing would be your career choice?
Not initially, publishing just seemed like a natural step for me from being an English major (teaching never interested me). I love reading and books so it was just a good fit.
Where did your love for books come from?
This is tough, I think it started in high school when I realized I didn’t mind doing summer reading (not including Great Expectations). But before that, I was always encouraged to read as a child—Nancy Drew, Harry Potter and all of that good stuff. Books have always been a part of my life, and I’m glad I have chosen to be in a career field that encourages that love.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years? 10?
In 5 years, I hope to be an editor at a Big 5 House. I still want to live in New York City. In 10 years, I hope to be a Publisher. And have all my student loans paid off (a girl can dream, right?).
What’s your favorite word?
I think my favorite word is salacious! It is as exciting as it sounds.
What are you currently reading?
The Next Time You See Me, by Holly Goddard Jones – a recommendation from my internship at Simon and Schuster.
by Tqwana Brown
