Hey there, I’m Laura Anne Muir and I have just started on the MLitt in Publishing Studies here at the University of Stirling. I come from Paisley, a large town near Glasgow. I have just graduated with a BA Hons in English Studies and Journalism Studies, also from Stirling. I decided I had to attend Stirling the minute I set foot on the gorgeous campus as it is so different from what I was used to. I have loved studying at Stirling and jumped at the chance to stay for another year, especially on a course with such an outstanding reputation in the field. I’m sure that this will be a great place to learn more about the industry and roles involved as I have no real publishing experience to date, just enthusiasm and determination to learn.

I have always been an avid book lover and hope I can put this to good use in the publishing industry. I find books and use of language fascinating and want to explore this further.  I think now is an exciting time to be joining the publishing industry, with the advent of e-books and digitisation. I’m especially interested in Children’s and Young Adult fiction because I think it is extremely important for young people to recognise the importance of reading. I am very interested in marketing and the way books are put out into the world.

This year I am volunteering at Bloody Scotland, Stirling’s international crime-writing festival, which I am very excited about. I have done some work experience at the Scottish Express on Sunday and have worked on Stirling’s Student Newspaper, Brig,  for the last four years.