Member Spotlight: Mary Choy

Why is writing important to you and why do you think it’s an important medium for the world? Writing is a way for me to share my knowledge with the world. I’m a pharmacist, educator, and public health advocate. Over 15 years ago, I became a professor because I wanted to share my knowledge and life’s work through teaching and writing. I love writing so much that I created a medical writing course at a college to inspire students to write and publish their work. It is especially meaningful that my first book, Healthcare Heroes: The Medical Careers Guide, has had a timely impact with people interested in learning more about the healthcare field.

What are your tried and tested remedies to cure writer’s block? I take a break: either going for a walk, connecting with friends, or reading a book. Inspiration is everywhere and you just have to look to find it.

What is your favorite time to write? My favorite time to write is in the early morning. Some days I wake up at 5am and get started right away. The stillness of the early morning is the most productive and where I’m most creative.

What’s the best piece of writing advice you’ve ever received and would like to impart to other writers? Focus is important and that is different for everyone. Some people need to be in a quiet room, others need the energy from a coffee shop. Write what you love and find joy in writing every day.

What excites you most about being a writer in today’s age? Writers have many more options to publish their work with either traditional or non-traditional publishing. The door is open for more opportunities and new stories which is always a good thing. It’s also been very exciting to be a writer with all this new technology. Authors can easily connect with their readers on social media, virtual conferences and workshops.

Mary Choy’s Healthcare Heroes: The Medical Careers Guide, co-written with Michele B. Kaufman is out now with Sigel Press.