We had the good fortune of connecting with Jatniel Villarroel and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Jatniel, can you share a quote or affirmation with us?
It might sound a little mainstream, but I am one of those who believe that books change lives. Therefore, one of my favorite quotes ever comes from The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky: We accept the love we think we deserve. This phrase means a lot to me since I applied it to every aspect of my life; I mean, I can’t settle for the worst if I give my best, so I don’t deserve mistreatment when I give love and light. And, precisely, in my work as a writer, I give my best with an open heart.
I love that this quote has such a positive effect on me.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I am a writer, even though I have never called myself that way out loud or in public. I am a classical philologist, linguist, and have a doctorade in education. But life happened, and I began to work at Vanity Teen interviewing artists and writing articles about pop culture. Since I am a Venezuelan who grew up in a small town, being a writer or even a philologist is not something people aspire to in life. I had to tell myself that this was the way I wanted to follow and study hard to achieve my goals so far.
Following my passions has never been easy, so self-disciple has been crucial in my life. Also, I have learned that you have to read a lot to become a writer; I don’t get why some people think that only reading headlines will take them far.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Oh, I live in such ostracism that I wouldn’t offer a proper answer to that question. I guess that would just share with that person my best quality time. I might be some kind of dull, but I embrace it.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would dedicate it to my sisters, who have been very supportive and wanted me to share with others my writing. And to formal education, because, indeed, works.

Website: https://www.vanityteen.com/author/jatniel-villaroel/

Instagram: @jatnielv

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jatniel-villarroel-ruiz-30499163/

Twitter: @jvillarroelruiz

Image Credits
José Jiménez Cano @jcanoj

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