Novelist, corporate communications expert and freelance writer, Chris Corbett hosted a virtual careers talk on Wednesday 10 February with Coulsdon Sixth Form College A Level English Language and Literature students.
Originally planned as a visit to college on a book launch tour, Chris instead spoke virtually from his home in Zurich to students who have been doing creative and non-fiction writing for 20% of their A Level qualification.
Chris discussed aspects of his corporate work, from starting out to working as a freelance writer. He also worked in the IT, Finance, Pharmaceuticals and Insurance sectors as a writer for employee publications and even marketing materials. He has written short stories in addition to blog posts, a screenplay, and fiction and non-fiction pieces.
Asked by a student ‘what was his greatest professional achievement’, Chris replied ‘All of it’ and that ‘the journey is the destination’ as he worked with such wonderful people in various jobs and had learnt so much. He gave several helpful suggestions to aid students including joining a local writer’s group, writing on LinkedIn, networking and starting small with a writing job that may lead to other things.
Chris has also kindly offered 3 signed copies of his novel Nirvana Blues as prizes for a student competition where they are challenged to write either non-fiction or fiction on the topic of ‘Aspirations and Adventures’. Entries are to be sent by email to kathy.miller@coulsdon.ac.uk by Sunday 28 February.
Commenting on his talk to the students, Chris said ‘I’ve really enjoyed talking to such a fantastic bunch of students! Thanks so much for letting me share with you a bit about the writing life – I really liked hearing all the good questions.’
Adrian Price, Head of Faculty for English and Humanities said ‘Chris provided such a valuable talk to our students. It was wide ranging in looking at both the corporate and freelance aspects of writing as well as writing novels.’
Kathy Miller, English teacher mentioned ‘In what has been a difficult academic term for students, this was a great way to start half term with a renewed purpose to write!’
If you missed the virtual talk, you can catch up below.
