Meet Our April Volunteer of the Month: Nikki Baldauf

News —— April 2018

1. How did you first get involved with 826NYC and why did you decide to volunteer?

I first got involved with 826NYC back in 2013. I had been a student teacher and a tutor all through high school and college and I realized missed it. I’d heard about 826NYC through the publishing grapevine and it sounded like an amazing program, so I signed up to volunteer.

2. What’s your favorite part of volunteering at 826NYC?

I love being able to connect with the students, both through the workshops and through their writing. My favorite part of being a copy editor or proofreader on the quarterly chapbooks and other book projects is getting to see the pure range of imagination these young authors have. It’s really amazing to see what they dream up. I can’t wait to see one of them publish their first novel!

3. What do you do when you’re not at 826NYC?

I’m a senior production editor at HarperCollins Publishers. When I’m not working (or volunteering!), I like to cook, read, play volleyball, and go to as many Broadway shows as I can.

4. What advice would you give a new volunteer?

Go for it! Don’t be afraid to ask questions or try something new. The students will appreciate your work and your enthusiasm, and you’ll have fun while you do it!

5. What are your superpowers?

Super copyediting skills! I also read super fast.