Sydney Merritt

Freelance Writer + Digital Marketing Specialist

University of South Florida St. Petersburg, B.A. English, Writing and Rhetorical Studies

In my work, I have produced and sustained content marketing efforts for a nationwide franchise corporation with 70+ individual locations, a medical organization with 100+ practices, and local small businesses expanding their e-commerce platforms. I research and record market data, develop and execute content and SEO strategy, create social media and CRM campaigns, and write articles, press releases, and educational resources.

I worked at restaurants through college, and in those years I began cultivating my work ethic and capacity to value what I contribute. My time working in the service industry helped shape my character while enriching my intentions as a writer, instilling a profound understanding that each person encountered is one worth knowing. It’s come with a lot of stories and even more book recommendations, many still to pass along.

I was lucky to work under a directed research program for a professor’s personal human rights advocacy research work in my last year of undergrad. Through participatory education, I learned about research collection, data synthesis and organization, and content creation for various research conferences and projects. More than anything, I was entrusted with sensitive data that mattered to many people and made a difference for even more. This experience provided me with the opportunity to begin my career by deeply valuing my work. I learned discipline and gained organizational skills indispensable to me today. It helped inform who I am as a professional.

In writing, I’ve always been captivated by narrative. To understand its confines is to revere the vastness we’re able to stretch ourselves and communicate with both clarity and thoughtfulness. I believe this is our best opportunity to connect with others and ultimately with ourselves.