These are the voices of our mentors and mentees from past and present. They've provided their insight about the program, their processes, the Wattys, and have shared their favorite Wattpad stories. Grab a cuppa and sit down with us as we get to know...
The Bootcamp Mentors are proud to present a spotlight interview with Arzoelyn author of Born Of Prophecy. Check out this writer's works and give them a shout out in the comments.
BCM: How did you discover the Bootcamp Mentors and what have you found most valuable about this Wattpad community program?
Arzoelyn: I discovered BCM as a fluke of fate! I came across the book on my feed and thought, this looks interesting. I started reading and saw that I had missed over a month of doing assignments, blurbs, log lines, summaries, and such. I was resigned to not being able to be a part of it, but maybe I could still pick up some tips and study the writing styles of the mentors listed. Then I saw that I had a small window to apply and I did. I figured there would be so many applicants I'd be drowned out in the pile, especially since I hadn't practiced any of the assignments. If I wanted to improve my writing I had to take the chance.
Then the writing gods answered my prayers (they do exist) and LeighWStuart selected me. I am beyond grateful for her mentorship. I feel that I have grown so much as a writer because of her guidance. We throw ideas openly about what could be changed or improved. She checks up on me and is my constant supporter. No judgment, just encouragement. Honestly, this community has been a gamer changer.
BCM: What prompted you to start writing on Wattpad and what do you like most about the platform as a writer?
Arzoelyn: I had been writing a story in a journal ( yes, old school) and a friend mentioned Wattpad. I joined and fell in love with so many books and authors. I didn't post right away. My stories had always been for me. I was too intimidated to post. It took almost a year before I decided to take the plunge. I'm glad I did. My favorite part is reading the comments people leave. Their investment in something I wrote boggles the mind. I get a thrill from every little "YASS" or "OMG". But what really mystifies me is seeing in the stats the different places around the world where people are reading my work. It humbles and amazes me.
BCM: What motivated you to write the story you're submitting to the 2023 Wattys?
Arzoelyn: Honestly, I was just looking for a way to grow as a writer and BCM gave me that opportunity. Submitting this story to the 2023 Wattys is a bonus. But I started writing the story when I heard the song "Stay" by DJ Encore. Like a music video, the story came to me, and with each play I saw a new scene. The characters wouldn't leave my head. They demanded to be heard.
BCM: If you had to describe your story in three words, what would they be?
Arzoelyn: I can't do it, haha. Okay, let me try again.
Magical. Friendship. Discovery.
BCM: Tell us one thing about your writing process that has helped you the most.
Arzoelyn: Music! Mood music to be precise. If I'm writing an action scene, I need something fast paced with a big beat. If I'm writing an emotional scene, I go with something soft with strings or wind instruments. Ironically, as I get in "the zone" it all becomes white noise.
BCM: Share two Wattpad story recommendations.
Arzoelyn: Only two! That's a tall order, but here it goes: Bereft by rentachi and Paragon by azimodo
Thank you, Arzoelyn. We wish you all the best in your writing endeavors.
More BCM spotlight interviews are on the way!
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