Jemma Hatt

Current Employer/Organisation Name

Self-employed

What have you been doing since leaving Exeter, and what are you doing now?

For the past two years I have been writing children’s adventure stories. Most are published independently, one (at time of writing) is published through a traditional publisher. In 2021 my books will be translated into Estonian. Prior to becoming a writer, I worked in HR and Project Management in the UK and USA.

Why did you choose this career? And what do you enjoy most about your work?

I’ve always enjoyed writing and children’s stories. I enjoy all aspects of publishing – advertising, visiting schools, working with editors and artists and writing itself.

Please tell us if you were a member of any societies, groups or sports clubs?

Reporter for Exepose and volunteer for Age Concern in Devon.

What did you enjoy most about your programme and what was the biggest highlight?

I enjoyed all of it; the highlight was probably my dissertation on Daphne du Maurier which included visiting Fowey in Cornwall. for a literary festival. On a personal level I enjoyed meeting new friends and the fun social activities.

What did you enjoy most about studying here?

The beautiful campus and town and friendly atmosphere.

Why did you choose to study at Exeter?

I had a really good feeling about the campus when I visited in person.

What skills and experiences have been most useful for your career?

Having confidence and resilience is critical in any industry – and is something I have improved in during my time at university and the years since then.

What advice would you give to a current student who wishes to pursue your career?

Don’t feel that you have to have your entire career path mapped out right now. You can also pursue writing and publishing on the side while earning money in another job – there’s a lot of flexibility.

What are your plans for the future?

Keep writing more books; sell foreign language rights to more countries.