Emily Copley Publishes First Book: A Fairleigh Dickinson Public Safety Officer’s Story

From Resident Assistant to Published Author: Emily Copley’s Journey

Emily Copley’s path to becoming a published novelist is a compelling example of how a university’s academic and extracurricular offerings can intersect to create unique career opportunities. A 2022 graduate of Fairleigh Dickinson University’s Creative Writing program, Emily later earned an MFA in 2024 while simultaneously serving as a public safety officer. Her debut novel, Not Your Child Prodigy, was released on December 16 and is now available on Amazon and Barnes & Noble.

Early Steps: Choosing the Right Program

When Emily first enrolled at FDU in 2018, she was drawn to the university’s distinctive Creative Writing major—an offering that few other institutions provide. Unlike many schools that treat creative writing as a concentration within an English major, FDU’s program allows students to focus exclusively on writing, giving them a deeper, more specialized experience.

For students considering a similar path, the key takeaway is to research programs that align with your career goals. Look for:

• Dedicated faculty with publishing experience
• Opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration
• Strong alumni networks in both creative and professional fields

Once you’ve identified a program, reach out to current students or alumni to gain insight into how the curriculum supports real-world applications.

Leveraging Campus Resources

Emily’s success was not solely due to her talent; it was also the result of strategic use of campus resources. She engaged in writing workshops, sought feedback from peers, and took advantage of the university’s writing center. Additionally, her role as a resident assistant opened doors to the Public Safety department, where she discovered a graduate assistant position that allowed her to pursue an MFA while working full time.

Students can replicate this approach by:

• Joining writing groups or workshops to refine their craft
• Seeking mentorship from faculty or industry professionals
• Exploring cross‑departmental opportunities that align with their interests
• Utilizing university career services to connect with potential employers

Balancing Public Safety Duties with Creative Writing

Working as a public safety officer demands a high level of responsibility and time management. Emily managed to balance her shift schedule with her MFA coursework by setting clear priorities and maintaining a disciplined routine. She also used her experiences on campus to inform her writing, drawing parallels between the challenges she faced in public safety and the themes in her novel.

Practical tips for students juggling demanding jobs and creative projects include:

• Allocate specific blocks of time for writing—early mornings or late evenings can be productive
• Use downtime during commutes or breaks to brainstorm or outline scenes
• Set realistic, incremental goals (e.g., 500 words per day)
• Communicate with supervisors about your academic commitments to secure flexible scheduling when possible

Turning a Short Story into a Novel

Emily began Not Your Child Prodigy as a short story during her sophomore year. Over time, she expanded the narrative, adding depth to characters and exploring broader themes such as exploitation, identity, and the power of music. The evolution from short story to novel demonstrates the importance of iterative development and peer feedback.

To expand a short piece into a full-length manuscript:

• Identify core themes that can sustain a longer narrative
• Develop secondary characters to support the protagonist’s arc
• Outline key plot points and subplots to maintain pacing
• Solicit feedback from writing workshops or beta readers
• Revise multiple drafts, focusing on clarity, voice, and emotional resonance

Research and Real‑World Inspiration

Emily’s novel incorporates elements of synesthesia, a neurological condition that enhances sensory perception. She researched the condition extensively, drawing on academic articles and personal interviews. Additionally, her grandfather’s experience with dementia inspired her to explore the therapeutic effects of music on the brain—a motif that appears throughout the book.

When incorporating real-world topics into fiction:

• Conduct thorough research to ensure accuracy and sensitivity
• Interview experts or individuals with lived experience when possible
• Integrate research findings organically into the narrative rather than as exposition
• Use research to deepen character motivations and plot stakes

Publishing Process and Marketing Tips

After completing her manuscript, Emily pursued traditional publishing avenues. She submitted her work to literary agents and publishers, eventually securing a deal that allowed her book to be distributed through major retailers. The process involved:

• Polishing the manuscript with a professional editor
• Crafting a compelling query letter and synopsis
• Building a platform—social media, blog posts, and speaking engagements—to generate interest
• Coordinating with the publisher’s marketing team for book launch events and promotions
• Leveraging university alumni networks to reach potential readers

For students aiming to publish, consider these actionable steps:

• Attend writing conferences to meet agents and publishers
• Join online communities for authors to share resources and support
• Use platforms like Amazon and Barnes & Noble to list your book once published
• Plan a book tour or virtual readings to engage local and online audiences
• Track sales and reader feedback to inform future projects

Career Pathways After Publication

Emily’s dual roles as a public safety officer and published author illustrate the versatility of a creative writing degree. Her career trajectory offers several pathways for graduates:

• Public service roles that benefit from strong communication skills (e.g., community outreach, public relations)
• Teaching positions in creative writing or communications at the university level
• Content creation for media, marketing, or corporate communications
• Consulting for organizations seeking to improve storytelling and brand narratives
• Continued writing—novels, short stories, essays, or journalism

Students should identify which of these paths aligns with their interests and leverage internships or volunteer opportunities to gain relevant experience.

Takeaway for Aspiring Writers and Public Safety Professionals

Emily Copley’s story underscores the value of interdisciplinary engagement and proactive career planning. Key lessons include:

• Choose a program that offers depth in your chosen field
• Seek out cross‑departmental opportunities that broaden your skill set
• Balance professional responsibilities with creative pursuits through disciplined time management
• Use real‑world experiences to enrich your storytelling
• Approach the publishing process methodically, from manuscript polishing to marketing strategy
• Leverage alumni networks and university resources to open doors in both creative and public service arenas

By following these steps, students can emulate Emily’s success and build a career that blends public safety, creative writing, and publishing.

Ready to start your own journey? Apply to Fairleigh Dickinson University today and explore programs that align with your ambitions.

Have questions about balancing a career in public safety with creative writing? Contact us for guidance and support.

Share your experiences or ask for advice in the comments below—your story could inspire the next generation of writers and public safety professionals.

Explore our related articles for further reading on creative writing careers and public safety leadership.