Kelly Sorbie, 24, took time out from her rigorous studies at Up To Speed to speak to Henry Wallers about her future as a journalist.
A deep rooted love of writing is what drives Kelly Sorbie to pursue a career in journalism. She has been writing fiction since she was only seven years old and fondly recounts a time when, “My mum used to give me pages of paper stapled together and I would write my own stories and draw my own illustrations!”
Studying English Literature and Creative writing at Bath Spa University enabled Kelly to further hone her skills in a subject that had already begun to bring success. Prior to university, a stint with Charminster-based creative writing magazine Writers’ Forum saw her work published for the very first time.
The entertainment industry is Kelly’s passion and this is what she believes her career is destined to focus on. “Entertainment and culture is my favourite thing,” said the 24 year-old, who hopes to review films, books and television. She speaks enthusiastically about these subjects. She particularly enjoys the blockbuster American TV programme Mad Men, which she loves not only for the programme’s razor sharp style but for its illuminating take on gender relations in post-Second World War America.
It is science-fiction, however, that truly inspires Kelly and this is where she would like to channel her creative attention. “It’s my passion and I think it’s important to have a deep understanding of the subject you choose to work on.”
A successful work placement with Sci-Fi enthusiasts SFX magazine in 2007 and 2008, cemented Kelly’s belief that her future lay in science-fiction reporting.
While she readily accepts that the science-fiction industry is primarily aimed at men between the ages of 20 and 35, she is not concerned and cites two women as her figures of inspiration. Jayne Nelson, who works for SFX and Total Film, is chosen for her “sparky and funny” take on all things Sci-Fi. While Tara Bennett’s job of interviewing film stars and commentating on the Sci-Fi film industry, represents the pinnacle of the profession in Kelly’s eyes.
Talking to Kelly it is clear that she possesses an enthusiasm for Sci-Fi to go along with her encyclopaedic knowledge of the subject. It makes it all the more likely that this budding journo will follow Nelson and Bennett to the top.
Kelly Sorbie Fact File
Age: 24
Home town: Parley
Favourite Film: Eternal Sunshine Of The Spotless Mind
Favourite City: San Francisco
