Abby Taylor is Sincerely Abby
I observe, then I write.
Every college student has that one professor that pulls them aside and makes them aware of their talents. For me, that was Professor Nielsen at Westfield State after I wrote this.
English Honor Society
My literary family
You are only as strong as the people around you. For me, that was the English Writing department at Westfield State. Without such an inviting, vibrant community of professors and colleagues, I wouldn't be the writer I am today. Notable influences were Professor Army Williams, Prof Shirley Wong, Prof Layng, Alex Courcier, Meagan Davis, Mackenzie Jackson, and Audrey Therriault
and Rebekah Hebert.
Sigma Tau Delta Conference in St. Louis
Meeting Fellow Writers
Through Sigma Tau Delta, the English Honor Society, I had the privilege of attending a conference in Missouri that had writers from around the globe. Both distinguished authors and aspiring ones presented their work to illuminate others and be illuminated. What an empowering experience it was being around people just like me.
The Power of
Poetry Readings
As I explored the many facets of college to take advantage of, I was intrigued by poetry readings. It was something I saw in movies but had never actually been to one. These were evenings I looked forward to after a long week, to walk the stage where IÂ felt IÂ belonged.
Save the Bees Campaign
My Work with Fund for the Public Interest
As a fresh graduate from Westfield State with many social justice classes under my belt, I was eager to get out there and make a difference. So, I began going door to door educating people on the rapid rate that bees were dying and ways they could help the cause.
Campaign Coordinator for Senator John Velis
My Dive into Politics
State Representative of Westfield at the time, John Velis, spoke at graduation. I was moved by his words and ended up joining his campaign to be State Senator for the 2nd Hampden and Hampshire district. I became John's right-hand woman, doing everything from secretarial duties, to volunteer outreach, facilitating door knocking, designing flyers, event planning and social media work. Check out examples at velisforsenate.com and facebook.com/velisforsenate. John was victorious winning the election by 28 points. It was a challenging and fulfilling experience to affect change locally.
