Marisa Beck

Contributing Writer
Vacationing in Vanuatu - photo by Jeremy Beck
Vacationing in Vanuatu - photo by Jeremy Beck

I am a freelance writer and adventurer, born and raised in the Washington, DC metro area. In October of 2009, my husband and I quit our jobs and moved to the south island of New Zealand. I earn money through my freelance writing business, and in our spare time, we explore our beaches, our city (Dunedin), and the wider landscapes of New Zealand. I write about my experiences on a blog devoted soley to our New Zealand adventure.

I hold an MA in English, Technical Writing and Editing (2006) from George Mason University (Fairfax, Virginia) and now have seven years of experience in the trade. The bulk of my writing experience to date has centered on training and instructional content--in the science, defense, and medical fields. I am currently working with a San Diego-based company to help design and write web-based training courses. I also assist individuals with resumes, cover letters, college essays, and book manuscripts.

In a former life, I earned a BS in Earth Systems Science, Geology and worked for the US Geological Survey for five years. In that role, I assisted a research geochemist with several pollution studies and spent many hours wading with gators in the Florida Everglades.

For the last two years, I have trained in martial arts, including Krav Maga, Kickboxing, and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu.

My primary personal hobbies and interests include science, nature, writing, English, literature, travel, religion, philosophy, interior design, gardening, cooking, and hospitality.

Mailing Address: 63 Spottiswoode St., Tainui, Dunedin 9013 New Zealand

Email: otagowriting@gmail.com

Business website: http://otagowriting.com/

New Zealand blog: http://beckexplorer.blogspot.com/

Professional profile on LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/pub/marisa-beck/6/328/981

Resume: http://otagowriting.com/beck_resume_aug2010.pdf

Latest Articles

How to Create a Cheap Fitness Plan
You want to get in shape, but you fear your budget can't handle it? Consider these tips for a low-cost workout.
Apr 3, 2011 - Marisa Beck
15 New Zealand Foods to Try
Traveling to New Zealand? You probably aren't coming for the cuisine, but don't overlook these classic Kiwi food treats while you're here.
Mar 13, 2011 - Marisa Beck
Would You Like to Hand-Feed a Giraffe?
If you or someone you know has a love affair with giraffes, make your next outing the Metro Richmond Zoo, where you can pet and feed the resident herd.
Feb 28, 2011 - Marisa Beck
How to Experience a Unique Non-Tourist Vacation
Looking for a real travel adventure? Follow these tips to side-step tourist traps and discover new places for yourself.
Feb 28, 2011 - Marisa Beck
10 Ways to Relax and Recharge in 30 Minutes
Thirty minutes alone with an activity of complete relaxation can relieve stress, renew energy, and clear the fog of over-activity from your mind.
Feb 23, 2011 - Marisa Beck