I am a seasoned writer with highly developed writing, grammar, and spelling skills and many years of experience and training. In my current position as Staff Assistant in the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (May 1999-present), I spend more than 80% of my time on the computer interacting with others through written communication, mostly e-mail. For example in a typical day, I use e-mail to answer policy or procedure questions; set up and publicize training, meetings or conferences; solve problems; answer questions about employment opportunities; or more generally, trouble-shoot. Through this, I have learned to read critically, to write crisply and purposefully, and to forward needed information quickly and to the right individuals.

However, my writing experience is much broader than this. In my previous position with the Office of Financial Management, I researched and wrote extensive reports. For example, I prepared a report suggesting ways to improve customer service. This required me to gather input from others, review my findings in writing and make my own written recommendations. As well, in this position, I wrote training goals for subordinates and often had to prepare a written report or give written feedback with my recommendations.

I also gained a great deal of writing experience in my previous work with the Peace Corps. For example, I wrote the Standard Operating Procedures for my area as part of my work with the Total Quality Improvement Task Force. As well, I wrote performance evaluations for subordinate staff, helping them establish written performance goals.

In all of my work I have been responsible for proofreading and editing everything I write. Confidential material frequently comes across my desk, necessitating that I be the sole editor of the material. As well, I frequently edit and proofread other people's written work, checking for proper spelling, grammar, and punctuation. These include reports and memos I receive that must go to a senior staff member for signature or review.

Finally, I have taken extensive training to increase my knowledge about writing and to develop my writing skills. Recently, I completed an 8-week course entitled, "Essentials in Writing" (2000). As well, I have completed the USDA Graduate School's "Communication and Punctuation Skills" (1995), "Essentials in English Grammar" (1988), and "Technical Writing" (1982). These writing courses, coupled with many years of on-the-job writing experience have helped me develop and hone my written communication skills.