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Pursuing My Dream - A Career in Publishing (long)
I didn't mean for this post to be this long, but I've been dwelling over this a while, and just needed to get a lot out. TIA for reading.
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It's been ages since I've posted on this board, but I'm looking for some solid advice. I couldn't be more excited than I am right now about this decision. I currently work just under 40 hours a week at a retail store. I'm at the store most nights until 11pm. I'm one of the few people that absolutely adores doing retail and meeting new people, but I am reaching a point in my career where I need to make the decision to either follow my dream and really put myself on the path to do that or make the conscious decision to start building a foundation in retail. I know that career paths are never this cut and dry, but I feel I'm in a good place to make this decision.
I've always wanted to work in the publishing industry. Whether it is writing, editing, researching, anything. I have a Bachelor of Arts in English, currently. Aside from my retail job, I am a freelance contributing writer for a local direct-mail magazine in my area and have been published several times. Before that, I did freelance work for an online website. This is what I'm truly passionate about. My editor for the direct-mail magazine has several connections (she's been in the industry for 25 years) and I'm going to be looking to her as a mentor to get me on the best track to make me stand out from other candidates.
I'm excited and nervous both at the same time. I guess by writing this I am looking for advice from anyone who has been in my position before or works in the industry. This is my shot.
Again, thanks for reading. 
Re: Pursuing My Dream - A Career in Publishing (long)
I used to work in advertising and it's pretty similar to publishing/writing in that it is an industry where it matters who you know. Sharpen your networking skills, take the small projects no one else wants to do, and get some good clothing that has some professional edge (look the part).
It's great that you will have a mentor. Get in on her projects even with little things.
I am in the same boat as you and I just wanted to post some words of encouragement. I also have my bachelors in English and really would love to have a career in publishing. So, don't give up on your dream! It sounds like you're doing a good job in taking a step in the right direction. Remember that retail gives you experience in customer service, which is a big part of so many different aspects of many careers.
Good luck!