Dominique Horton

BS in Journalism, Southern Illinois University Carbondale

MSW, Southern Illinois University Carbondale

PhD in Social Work, Washington University in St. Louis 

Dr. Horton is a recent graduate of WashU and current Presidential Management Fellowship Finalist. Her zeal for writing began at a young age while writing for her high school newspaper and continued into her college years as a journalism student. This passion evolved into writing about social issues she cared about most along with supporting the mental health needs of others. As a former school social worker, her work focuses on educational justice needs in the areas of academic and social-emotional learning for Black children in urban public-school settings. Dr. Horton also owns her own private practice where she supports the mental health needs of teens, young adult and older adult clients.

What brought you to The Writing Center?
My work at The Writing Center began during my time as a Writing Center Graduate Fellow. I get to use my love for writing and supporting others all at the same time. 🙂

What do you like most about working with writers at The Writing Center?
I learn so much from reading others’ writing. It introduces me to new topics that I may not know a lot about, but it also allows me to use my expertise particularly with rising social workers as they explore various topics through their classes, dissertations or even book manuscripts. I also enjoy supporting students as they navigate their next steps whether they are applying for grad school or submitting materials for the job market. 

What do you find most challenging about writing?
The most challenging part of writing for me is distilling all of my ideas! It takes time to assure your writing translates well to an audience. Time can also be tough to find! But, I remind myself that my writing is a form of art and creativity, so to make time for my writing is making time for myself!

What advice do you have for writers?

Don’t wait until the last minute to write! Easier said than done when you’re trying to balance “all the things” and meet those looming deadlines, I know. However, as much as you can, plan ahead of time to free write and sit with your writing without stress, pressure and judgment. You will feel more confident about your writing, and you might even be surprised by what emerges!