Tell us about your career path since graduation. How did you end up where you are? 

I was already working as a literary researcher when I undertook a Creative Writing MA at Royal Holloway; I wanted to develop my fiction writing skills alongside the scholarly work I did for a living. After graduating, I continued my work in research, assisting writers, screenwriters and academics, as well as co-editing a book of Christopher Isherwood’s letters. I also worked for the brilliant Christopher Isherwood Foundation, which preserves the creative legacy of Isherwood and his partner Don Bachardy. But I never stopped writing fiction and (some years later!) I am proud to be publishing my debut novel, The Hounding with Penguin Random House in June 2025.  

What was it about your time at Royal Holloway that has most benefitted your career or influenced your path since graduation? 

I learned a lot: most straightforwardly about writing, but also how to think of myself as a writer and how to navigate the challenging world of publishing. It was focusing and galvanising.  

What would you say to potential students considering studying at Royal Holloway? / What advice would you give to students thinking about a career in your sector? 

I don’t think a Creative Writing MA is essential for writing and publishing a novel, but it taught me so much, and I know I developed as a writer over the course of that formative year. It also gave me space to read and think. I really loved the academic side to the course.  

What did you love most about your time at Royal Holloway? / What's your favourite memory of Royal Holloway? 

I am so grateful to have met many interesting writers while doing my MA—fellow students as well as our wonderful tutors. I have very fond memories of our discussions in Bedford Square.