Mikayla Tolliver, StoryStudio Chicago’s Executive Assistant started with us in August 2024. If you’ve come to a StoryStudio event in the past six months, odds are your paths have crossed. Always present with a cheerful ‘tude and an insightful question, Mikayla is truly enthusiastic about helping StoryStudio build our writing community.
Please tell our readers a little about your background (where you’re from, what you studied, etc.)
I’m from Rochester, NY (the sort of uncool part of New York state) and I’m a recent college graduate. I studied at Ithaca College, in the unique, creative small city of Ithaca. I graduated from Ithaca College with a Bachelor of Arts in Writing. I also minored in sociology. While my writing degree included all forms of writing including creative writing, technical, and workplace writing, my heart lies with fiction.
What made you pick StoryStudio for your year-long fellowship?
I’m working at StoryStudio Chicago as part of a post grad year-long fellowship opportunity I earned from my alma mater. My position is Executive Assistant in which I help the director of StoryStudio, Jessica Keller, with various tasks, projects, and research. I chose StoryStudio because I was drawn to their many ways to get involved with writing. Working here I knew I’d be involved in a writing community, could build work skills, and explore an iconic city. I continue to be excited about the work StoryStudio does, especially its events that have already had a huge impact on me as a writer (namely the Writers Festival held last November!).
What are your duties here at StoryStudio Chicago?
I’m helping with grants and individual giving right now! So far I’ve also created social media content, helped with a youth writing contest, engaged in research for StoryStudio, and I hop in to assist co-workers with projects, events, and other tasks as needed!
What do you love about living in Chicago?
I love that there is always something to do or see. Living in a big city is new for me. I’ve really enjoyed exploring different neighborhoods, especially their independent bookshops and thrift stores.
What do you like to write and what are you currently working on?
I like to write short stories, fiction, and fantasy. I’m currently working on a YA (young adult) fantasy manuscript that I hope to publish one day! My hope as a writer is to reach those who don’t feel seen or heard. I want to have a positive impact with my writing and talk about social topics that need light shed upon them. It would also be super cool to see my writing on the shelf of a bookstore someday!
What do you like to do when you’re not writing or making extremely fun TikToks?
I love planning future adventures, hanging out with friends/family, drawing, listening to music, and creating content for my YouTube channel and social media.