3 down, 5 to go.

Work is coming along nicely, and an editor did write to me yesterday saying she’d love to continue working with me, and that the piece I submitted is “excellent.”

Just what a writer wants to hear.

I’ve been really lucky in that editors, not just those I’d worked with but also those who’re new to me, have trusted me with jobs that require a good understanding of America, even though most knew I was here briefly. I’ve now written about American politics, the American education system (which was really interesting, because I come from a country that’s on the other extreme of the spectrum), immigration reforms, and the health system. And not surprisingly, they’ve enabled me to take a deeper look into the policies of my own country.

When I go back, this is going to be extremely helpful, because there’s going to be that frame of reference. So far, when I’ve spoken about issues, I haven’t really delved into the politics of them and certainly haven’t made international comparisons, and that’s one of the things I’ve learned how to do well here in Berkeley. To look closely at the policy level and see if there’s anything there. To take that leap from simply critiquing culture to critiquing culture within a political and historical framework, as my friend says. (Boy, how academic do I sound?)

I’ve also learned how to explain the nuances of India to non-Indians using comparisons that they’d more easily identify with. That’s been one of my biggest weaknesses, as an Indian trying to write for global publications. Until now, I hadn’t completely understood my readers, and this has caused at least one editor to bang his head against a wall repeatedly. And now finally, to his delight, I get it. (I think.)

I’m really excited about the next phase of my life. Leaving Berkeley is going to be very emotional; it’s already become so with everyone counting the days we have together and how we can make the most of this time. But I’m also really looking forward to the next step– getting back into full-time work, traveling for extended periods for stories and for fun, and taking on long-term projects once again.

I’ll miss you though, Berkeley.