[Stylist] Becoming a book editor

[Bridgit Kuenning-Pollpeter]

Vejas,

If your goal is to become a book editor, it's totally doable, but it will
require a lot of time working towards it. One doesn't just become an editor,
whether for books or magazines. Typically, you need a degree, usually in
English and/or writing, and most have MFAs also, but not always. Then, you
usually need to do at least one internship with a publisher of some kind.
After all this, you will still likely spend years as a copy editor then move
up to a junior editor before becoming a senior editor. It's a tough,
competitive field. But you are the determined, hard-working kind of person
who can do it if this is what you want.

Of course, you can find independent means of editing. Creating your own
editing business and doing it independently, but I don't know anyone who
does this and is able to make their living solely from doing it.

I know a lot of editors and have worked with a lot of editors. They all say
it's a difficult field to break into, especially these days, and it can be
cut-throat. It all depends on how much you want it, and if you're willing to
put the years of work in. Because, again, it's not like other employment
options where you immediately begin doing that particular job. To be honest,
you may even spend time doing glorified receptionist work before getting to
do any editing. Again, all depends on how much you want to do it.

The only exceptions I know of about people becoming editors for companies
quickly are those who have published a couple of books, and most also teach
at the collegiate level. They have a slightly easier time becoming literary
editors, but often, they are sought out, not necessarily applying for a
position.

Hope this helps.

Bridgit

-----Original Message-----
From: Stylist <stylist-bounces at nfbnet.org> On Behalf Of Vejas Vasiliauskas
via Stylist
Sent: Monday, May 20, 2019 1:25 PM
To: stylist at nfbnet.org
Cc: Vejas Vasiliauskas <alpineimagination at gmail.com>
Subject: [Stylist] Becoming a book editor

Hi all,
I have really enjoyed being on this list, and appreciated the feedback I
have been given over the years to improve my writing.
I have one more year of college as an English major to go, and have been
exploring career options. My involvement with jury duty last year prompted
me to get a legal internship this summer, which starts next week.
I am doing very well in school, but as I have continued with my English
classes, I've realized that, while I enjoy reading and love investing time
in the creative activities I have completed, I have little interest in
writing essays, and even less interest in research papers. That would make
becoming an English teacher rather difficult.
I am considering the possibility of becoming an editor. The job outlook
looks OK, but I wanted to hear from others about the advantages and
drawbacks of editing for a living. 
Thank you all for your time.
Sincerely,
Vejas
  
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