Stephanie Chasteen, a science education and communication consultant, was getting a PhD in physics when she realized she was more interested in learning about science than actually doing it. Time for a career change. Stephanie discusses how she launched a "do-it-yourself" program to learn science writing while still working on her PhD.
All about freelancing archive
Think back to the last time you went to a party where you didn't know many people. Did you have a good time? Make some new connections? If so, then you probably didn't just stand in one spot and expect people to approach you for conversation — you mingled. Dave Taylor and Amy Gahran explain how online mingling — through commenting — can enhance your freelance career.
Freelancer Nancy Allison talks with Dan Baum, formerly of the New Yorker, and his wife, Margaret Knox, editor of his work for more than 20 years. Discover how Twitter put their collaborative working style, marriage, website, and new book, Nine Lives: Death and Life in New Orleans, into the public eye.
Subscribers to the NASW-Talk list recently had a lively discussion on the ins and outs of finding images — and using them legally. Member Matt Bille summarized the findings for NASW All About Freelancing. Please add to this list. When you find a good source of images, add it in the comments section below, or send it to cybrarian@nasw.org, with a few words about the site.
NASW member Jennifer Frazer, an award-winning science writer, explores the age-old problem of how to record interviews without losing your quotes, your notes, or your mind.
Christie Aschwanden, a freelance science writer in Colorado, talks about how she raised funds for and reported a story in Vietnam.
Freelancer Nancy Allison continues to explore top writer websites and blogs. This month, she talks with Ed Yong, British freelance writer and creator of the blog, Not Exactly Rocket Science.
Sure, you're a great science writer. But can potential clients find you? Media consultant Amy Gahran shows how the basic tools of online "findability" can help you get noticed. (Sorry, having your name come up at the top of Google results doesn't necessarily help.)
Liability is a major concern for many freelance writers, especially as contracts with onerous indemnity clauses seem to be growing like fungus after a warm rain. While for most science writers, the chances of getting sued are small, it can happen. In this three-part series, NASW Freelance Committee member Kendall Powell looks at steps you can take to limit your liability. Part I: Knowing your risks, and avoiding them.
Liability is a major concern for many freelance writers. In this three-part series, NASW Freelance Committee member Kendall Powell looks at steps you can take to limit your liability. Part II: Setting up a business entity to protect your assets.