Why do you like writing?
Tina Schultz: I enjoy writing because it is either one of two things: an escape from reality and a chance for me to forget about the "real world" or it is a painful remider of reality and the hardships we must face. It can be both rewarding to write and painfully emotional. Nevertheless, it is a skill I think I am glad I have and know how to use.

When did you start writing and why?
Tina Schultz: I have been seriously writing since my freshman year of highschool. My English teacher, at the time, got me more interested because the assignments were amazing. I felt that when I wrote, it was me, but in a vague, strange way. I could put down in words what I wanted but without exposing myself (or my feelings) directly. It was a marvelous thing.

How long have you been writing?
Tina Schultz: I have been writing since 1999.

What is the best book you have ever read?
Tina Schultz: I don't know if I can put the label "best" on a book because I enjoy so many types of them. I guess the best book I have ever read would be a well-written one (and I have read plenty that were and plenty that weren't).

Who is your favorite author?
Tina Schultz: Once again, favorite author is so narrow a label. I love all types of writing. I enjoy the light-heartedness of J.K. Rowling, the excrutiating details of JRR Tolkien, the ease of Agatha Christie, the wit of Jane Austen, the controversy of Richard Rodriquez, and many more!

What is the best story you have ever written?
Tina Schultz: The best story I have ever written is one that is currently not complete. But I have written some fairly good poetry, am working on a few novels (fictional), have completed some short stories, and am working on a screenplay (a comedy). I write what I like.

What is some advice you would give new writers?
Tina Schultz: To new writers I would say not everyone is cut out to be a writer. There is a certain flow that one must have. With that in mind, I would say that one must write what they feel is "good". Good can be defined in many ways, but a piece should feel like one can relate to it in some way, have no grammatical errors (unless purposefully intended), and should be creative in a sense that the writing is organic and comes from within. It should be special to the writer.