Brian D
Huelva, Spain
“The devil is in the details!”
Specialist subjects:
Editing formats:
Education:
PhD in English Language and Literature
Mary Immaculate College
2013–2016
BA in English Language/Lit./Media/Communication
Mary Immaculate College
2011–2013
Favorite referencing style
I would have to say the Harvard style is my favorite, as it is the one that I have the most experience with.
Why I became an editor
I have a passion for the English language, and I’ve spent the last five years teaching it on the south coast of Spain. I also have an academic background in literature, completing a doctorate in this area. I’ve written a book examining the work of an Irish author and playwright, and I contributed to international collections regarding Irish literature and theater. Working alongside a client and helping them get their message across as clearly as possible is something that really appeals to me.
Background and experience
I have been working as an English language teacher in Spain since 2017. This role involves teaching multiple language levels and age categories. Previous to this, I worked as a tutor at the university where I was doing my doctorate. This involved teaching and correcting academic essays. I also had a career in sales for about 10 years, which involved traveling around Ireland and servicing a customer base alongside generating new business.
Why I love proofreading and editing
I love the English language. The opportunity to help someone enhance and clarify their message is one that I relish. I have a lot of experience in academic writing, having worked as a tutor and also completing my own doctorate. I have a lot of experience in the ESL field, working as a full-time ESL teacher for the last five years. A second pair of eyes can make all the difference in message delivery, whether that’s a grammar point, a dissertation, or a sales pitch.
Favorite book:
I thoroughly enjoyed The Shadow of the Wind by Carlos Ruiz Zafon, The Book Thief by Markus Zuzak, and anything by Khaled Hosseini or by my fellow Irishman, Donal Ryan.
Hobbies:
I’m a music fanatic and budding vinyl junkie, and I attempt to play guitar and the Irish four-string banjo. As I live in the south of Spain, one of my favorite places is the beach!
Editing tips:
I like to read the document quickly and correct any obvious errors while getting a feeling for the tone and subject matter before doing deeper work. Also, reading a piece out loud can be useful.
