Emily Costa: writer, scientist & 'girl on girl’ author

Emily Costa: a writer’s journey and scientific pursuits

From Waterbury to MFA: the early writing career

Emily Costa’s literary journey began in Waterbury, Connecticut, a place that shaped her early experiences. This foundation led her to pursue a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in fiction from Southern Connecticut State University, a significant step in honing her craft. Her academic path has also involved teaching first-year composition at the same university, allowing her to guide emerging writers. This dual focus on creating and teaching literature highlights her deep commitment to the written word.

’Girl on Girl’: exploring desperation and cruelty

The publication of her short story collection, „Girl on Girl,” by Rejection Letters marked a significant milestone in Emily Costa’s writing career. This collection delves into complex and often unsettling themes, exploring the depths of desperation, loneliness, and the casual cruelty that can permeate human interaction, often amplified by screen obsession. The stories within „Girl on Girl” offer a raw and unflinching look at the human condition, featuring characters grappling with their inner turmoil and the external pressures of modern life.

’Until it feels right’: navigating OCD and therapy

Emily Costa’s bravery in sharing her personal journey is evident in her collection of diary entries, „Until It Feels Right.” Published by Autofocus Books, this powerful work chronicles her experience with intensive Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Through these intimate entries, Costa offers a candid and insightful look into the challenges and triumphs of managing OCD, providing a beacon of hope and understanding for others facing similar struggles. The book serves as a testament to the power of vulnerability and the resilience of the human spirit.

Science and imagination: the dual path of Emily Costa

Researching lung cancer at Memorial Sloan Kettering

Beyond her literary endeavors, Emily Costa is a dedicated graduate student at Weill Cornell, actively contributing to critical cancer research. As a 4th-year student, her work at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (MSKCC) focuses on small cell lung cancer (SCLC). Her research aims to enhance the sensitivity of SCLC to immunotherapy, a crucial area of cancer treatment. She also investigates gene expression and regulation, particularly in the context of metastasis, seeking to unravel the complex mechanisms behind cancer spread. This commitment to scientific inquiry underscores her multifaceted talents.

Civic science engagement with RockEDU

Emily Costa is a passionate advocate for civic science engagement, lending her expertise as a volunteer scientist for RockEDU and BioBus. These organizations are dedicated to bridging the gap between scientific research and the public, making science accessible and understandable for diverse audiences. Her involvement with RockEDU, in particular, focuses on examining civic science case studies, with a project to create a comprehensive reservoir of ideas and analysis of effective engagement initiatives. This work aims to highlight the breadth of civic science and offer insights to enhance practices across various contexts, demonstrating her commitment to science communication and outreach.

Advice for young scientists: resilience and balance

Drawing from her own experiences, including an accidental small fire during an undergraduate organic chemistry class, Emily Costa offers valuable advice to aspiring scientists. She emphasizes the importance of developing resilience in the face of challenges and setbacks. Costa also stresses the need to find balance by cultivating interests and outlets outside of the laboratory. She embraces the „choose-your-own-adventure” nature of her PhD training, encouraging young scientists to be open to unexpected paths and to nurture their creativity, whether through writing, art restoration, or journalism, should science not be their chosen field.

Interviews and beyond: connecting with Emily Costa

Podcasts and readings: a glimpse into her work

For those eager to delve deeper into the world of Emily Costa, her presence can be found across various platforms. She has participated in podcasts and readings, offering listeners and audiences a direct connection to her literary voice and scientific insights. These appearances provide a valuable glimpse into her creative process, the inspirations behind her books, and her perspectives on the intertwined nature of writing and science. Exploring these interviews and readings offers a more personal understanding of her work and the themes she explores.

Contact and profile information

To learn more about Emily Costa’s work and to stay updated on her latest projects, various resources are available. She is the cnf editor for Farewell Transmission and an assistant flash editor for Split Lip Magazine, showcasing her active role in the literary community. She is also part of a duo called LISTLESS. Currently, she is working on a novel centered around her father’s video store, promising another compelling narrative. Further details about her profile and ways to connect can often be found through her publisher websites and literary journals she contributes to.

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