The 10 Things I Learned From My First Writers Conference

10. The creative journey isn't for the weak of heart. Yet the world's most sensitive and introverted people show up with full vulnerability.

9. There are many flavors of story out there with much to be savored.

8. "High Concept" isn't as high-brow as it sounds.

7. It's true writers are generally solitary but in this business, community is everything.

6. Agents and Editors are human: some you don't connect with, but there are many more with whom you do.

5. Pitching makes me feel like a gladiator. It requires Herculean strength, showmanship, and resilience. Thumbs up. Thumbs down.

4. A Writer and an Author are two different things.

3. One must be prepared to make peace with conflicting advice.

2. Women of color are grossly underrepresented. Amongst hundreds of literati, there were three Filipinx authors; we found each other.

1. Yes, this experience changed my life and perspective. I will continue this journey just to see how...