Kate Findley
Profile: I write copy that solves problems and anticipates needs.
Work Experience
Freelance Copywriter
The Great Courses
Aug 2017 – Present
As a copywriter for The Great Courses, I have written course descriptions for several
of their courses. This includes the full course description as well as minidescriptions for each of the lectures (24-48), headlines, subheadings, and other
marketing copy. Additionally, I regularly edit blog posts for The Great Courses Daily.
This requires taking course transcripts and breaking them up into reader-friendly
articles with headlines, subheadings, and SEO-optimization.
Freelance Writer
Word Arcs
Jan 2012 – Present
At Word Arcs, I collaborate with businesses to create engaging copy. I write sales
letters and landing pages that use the power of story to tap into prospects’
emotional needs. I then help companies to maintain a relationship with their
customers as well as attract new customers with articles, emails, and blog posts.
English Teacher
Bnos Devorah High School
Aug 2015 – Present
I guide high-school students in exploring and analyzing challenging literary classics
as well as developing real-world writing skills. My goal is to help students identify
with these texts and to discover ways in which reading and writing are relevant to
their lives.
Contributing Writer
Realitysandwich
Jan 2011 – Feb 2012
I wrote short pieces that merge factual details with reflection and analysis, covering
topics ranging from hidden pyramids to overpopulation to missing DNA links.
Writing Group Coordinator
Las Cienegas Projects
May 2009 – July 2011
I conducted weekly meetings for writers from a wide range of ages and experience. I
encouraged writers to commit to a regular submissions schedule and offer detailed
feedback.
Publishing Staff Member
Otis College
Aug 2008 – May 2009
I oversaw both the Otis-run literary journal (Or) and small press (Seismicity),
proofread and edited a novel and an entire issue of Or, and wrote concise,
compelling author profiles and book descriptions. Additionally, I composed press
announcements for new issues, mailing copies to hundreds of authors, publishers,
and bookstores. Finally, I organized the catalogue for Seismicity publications,
compiling years worth of book reviews, author interviews and biographical
information into one user-friendly piece.
Teaching Assistant
Otis College of Art and Design
Sept 2007 - May 2008
I taught students how to write clearly and effectively, tapping into their life stories
to compose authentic, engaging essays.
Contributing Film Critic
Emanuel Levy’s website
February 2006 - Aug 2007
I wrote numerous reviews ranging from 300 to 900 words, covering a wide stylistic
range. I consistently met tight deadlines, often submitting reviews immediately after
viewing the films. I covered the Los Angeles Film Festival and adhered to
publication writing standards.
Lifestyle Staff Writer
Daily Trojan
Aug 2003 - May 2007
I collaborated with the editor in selecting pertinent film events to cover including an
Al Pacino tribute. Additionally, I initiated film reviews and features to write and
research, particularly interviews with lesser-known filmmakers. Finally, I
researched articles pertinent to arts journalism, such as an interview with critic
Scott Foundas about the current state of film criticism.
Education
Otis College of Art and Design, Los Angeles, CA
MFA, Writing
Top Otis Fellowship Recipient
11/2009
University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA
5/2007
BA, Major: Cinema Critical-Studies, Minor: English
GPA: 3.78
Alpha Lamda Delta Honor Society, Cinema Circulus Scholarship, magna cum laude
