The Editor's Message

Greetings, fellow STC members! Hope the new year has been treating you well thus far.

As some of you may know, I have been trying to re-establish myself as a technical communicator after an extended period of time overseas. So far it has been a struggle for me, but I have always looked for ways to make myself more marketable.

I started by volunteering in the STC last summer to become the newsletter editor of the Quill. Looking back, I have learned much about the process of producing a quality online document from start to finish. More importantly, I was able to meet several new contacts in the council.

Shortly after the new year began, I worked as an intern at a local graphic design/new media outfit for two weeks. It was an unpaid position, but at the end of the day it meant more recent work experience in my field and another invaluable contact. Since then, I offered to continue my services there as a volunteer while I continue to look for a full-time (or contract) position.

As my recent experience has proven, you should never underestimate the value of volunteering, whether you are currently employed or in between opportunites. You'll learn many new things, meet many new contacts and even expand your palette of skills to make yourself a more attractive candidate!

May 2009 continue to go well for all of you, and if you have any suggestions for future issues of the Quill, please contact me at quill@stc-soc.org.

Evan Jones