Event

Careers in Publishing: Working with Fiction Panel

Join our editing certificate online panel of fiction editors and writers as they share how they got their start and the paths they took to get to where they are now.

Aug 19
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Date

-

Location

Online

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About the Event

For many aspiring editors, working with fiction represents a dream career—but finding a path into this competitive space can feel daunting. In this candid panel conversation, Editing certificate completers will share their experiences working with fiction in a variety of professional roles. Hear how they navigated the transition from training to industry, what surprised them most about the work, and what skills and mindsets helped them succeed. Whether you're hoping to edit novels, work with authors, or simply understand the realities of the field, this session will offer insights, encouragement, and practical guidance. A brief Q&A will follow the panel discussion.

You will:

  • Hear firsthand experiences from professionals who began where you are.
  • Understand how to position yourself for opportunities in fiction.
  • Gain insight into the current landscape of fiction publishing.
  • Ask questions and make connections with alumni working in the field.

Speaking at the event

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Jennifer Bisbing

Bisbing Books Founder

Jennifer Bisbing is an award-winning book editor and photographer and nationally published poet. Raised by a renowned forensic scientist, Bisbing’s murder mystery Under the Pines reveals childhood memories of trips to the crime lab. With family dinner conversations notoriously leading to murder...

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Allison Janicki

Allison Janicki, BA

PDC Student Advisory Board Member

Allison Janicki is an editor, project manager, writer, reader, artist, and runner from Walled Lake, Michigan. She has worked in the publishing industry for over four years, specializing in working with independent presses and self-published authors. She enjoys vegetarian sushi and crocheting at home...

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Elyse Lyon

Elyse Lyon

Freelance copyeditor, developmental editor, and book coach

Elyse Lyon is a freelance copyeditor, developmental editor, and book coach who works with both traditionally published and indie authors, from New York Times bestsellers and National Book Award winners to self-starting self-published writers. She’s passionate about character-driven fiction, whether...

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