SUSAN CARPENTER (she/her)

What brought you to Humber and your program of study?

After an Honours BA in English from Western University, where I studied the classics and learned to write critical essays, I wanted real-world experience to craft my own stories. So, after a few years working in advertising, marketing, and the financial industry, plus getting married and having children, I rekindled my love of writing through a one-week summer intensive with the late, great D.M. Thomas. I returned to Humber again to take the Creative Writing Certificate and was lucky enough to be paired with Joan Barfoot as my mentor.

What was your favourite Humber memory or experience?

My favourite memory was chatting with my mentors about all things writing. They took my words and treated them as if they meant something, that they were worth reading and commenting on. That gave me the confidence to keep writing, to keep trying until I got my first short story in print and now a book.

What was Humber's greatest impact on your personal and professional life?

Humber's greatest impact on my personal and professional life was to give me a foundation in creative writing, enabling me to keep learning and growing as a writer, exploring this craft that is a lifelong apprenticeship. I moved on from not just writing but teaching creative nonfiction and short fiction. Without Humber's stamp of approval and early encouragement, I doubt I would've gotten this far.

What are you up to now?

I still work in the financial industry during the day and write at night. My debut novel launches on April 15th, I write articles on writing, and I continue to mentor other writers. My husband and I raised a blended family of five boys, most of whom are launched, so we now enjoy some free time to camp in the Canadian wilds, play tennis, and travel. Contact me here: www.susancarpenter.ca

What else do you want to share (e.g. Memorable trip; If you had a superpower; Favourite food or coffee shop; Personal and professional interests; Awards and recognition; Other milestones)?

I have published short fiction, was longlisted for the CBC nonfiction prize, and write for and act on stage and screen.

Originally from Midland, Ontario, I now live in Calgary, Alberta, with my husband and our pony-sized rescue therapy dog.