Heather S.
VancouverCanada
99% Job Success
Top Rated

Writer, editor, beta-reader, and cruciverbalist

I have been teaching basic writing skills to undergraduates who are both native and non-native speakers of English since 2001, when I first took a part-time job at Champlain Regional College's Writing Centre. I defended my PhD in history at Johns Hopkins, where I edited (and graded) hundreds of student papers and dozens of my colleagues' articles and chapters for submission. I also worked at the Milton S. Eisenhower library information desk and helped students and the general public navigate the research resources. I am familiar with Chicago, MLA, and APA citation styles, and I understand the importance of proper source attribution in non-fiction. My own writing style is crisp and simple. I believe in short sentences that get right to the point. I read English, French, Italian and Latin and have a firm grasp of sentence syntax and argumentative structure. I received a 790 (99th percentile) on the verbal component of the GRE in 2008. As a writer, I specialize in forms of biographical writing (which was the focus of my dissertation): job cover letters, statements of purpose for post-secondary programs, recommendation letters and character references. A main component of successful biographical writing is a personal touch, and I am available to discuss a client's background and skills over Zoom before embarking on a new project. I love copy-editing research because learning something new is such a joy. I take on beta-reading projects for historical fiction and fantasy at EXTREMELY reduced hourly rates for that very same reason -- because they are fun! I also revise training manuals, telemarketing scripts, and business documents. My portfolio contains some examples of my work, but since I cannot often share what I deliver to clients, I also offer potential clients a small sample (250 words) edit of their text. I charge sliding rates based on the level of service, i.e., proofreading costs less than line editing.
Work history

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Skills

Skills

  • English

Get started working with Heather quickly with these predefined projects.

Get started working with Heather quickly with these predefined projects.

You will get an edited, proofread, and formatted document

From $20
1 day delivery

You will get a detailed and comprehensive +750-word reader report with suggestions

From $20
2 days delivery

Testimonials

Endorsements from past clients

"I highly recommend Heather for any short or long-term writing project. As my editor, Heather not only displayed a deep well of knowledge but also managed the details of my project with exceptional care and professionalism. What sets Heather apart is her approachability and her ability not to flaunt her expertise, which made collaboration both pleasant and productive. She treated my project as if it were her own, going beyond the typical duties of an editor to serve as an accountability partner. Heather helped create and maintain deadlines that kept the project on track without ever feeling overwhelming. Her balanced guidance and support were instrumental in the success of my work. If you're seeking an editor with a heart and a listening ear, look no further, Heather is the best!"

Toussaint W.
Non-fiction writing May 2024

Verified


"Dependable, flexible, very smart: I've never been disappointed with Heather's work. She's helped me with my own writing and with the design of writing tool for undergraduate students. I've also had several student hire her services to help improve job and graduate school application, with very positive outcome. I heartily recommend."

Jean-Olivier R. | Assistant Professor
Jan 2024

Verified


"Heather's knowledge and intellectual flexibility made every difference. She was able to take in the breadth of my project and direct the structure. She consistently adapted to new inputs while understanding both the priorities of the project, as well as her role in that process. She was a one-person red team when the situation called for it, and I couldn't be happier with the results."

Zachary S.
Jan 2024

Verified