Why I Decided to Become a Freelance Copywriter (and What I’ve Learned So Far)

Let’s get one thing out of the way: I didn’t just wake up one morning with a lightning clap revelation that I was absolutely destined to be a copywriter.

It was more of a… slow burn. There was a little editing here, some blog writing there, years of correcting grammar in group chats (sorry not sorry), and suddenly I realized: oh. This is a thing people do. For money. Willingly. And I. Like. It.

Cue the internal screaming.

For years, writing was just this quiet, reliable part of me; the thing I turned to when I needed to process the world or add a little sparkle to it. I wrote stories and essays and emails that were maybe a little too enthusiastic. I edited papers for students. I obsessed over sentence rhythm the way some people obsess over skincare routines (though I respect a good daily SPF 50 moment, too).

But I always saw writing as a side dish and certainly not the main course.

That started to shift when I enrolled in the Strategic Copywriting certificate program through the University of Toronto School of Continuing Studies. I signed up partly because I wanted to sharpen my skills, partly because I love a good learning adventure, and partly because I kept Googling things like “how to be a freelance copywriter with no experience and two cats sitting on your keyboard.”

Spoiler: this program didn’t just teach me how to write copy—it taught me how to think like a copywriter. Audience-first. Goal-driven. Word nerd with purpose.

So, why freelance?

The short version? Flexibility, creativity, and the deep satisfaction of making words work.

The slightly longer version? I wanted to carve out a space where I could use my voice (and help others find theirs), keep learning, work with people who value good storytelling, and have the freedom to build something of my own; something that fits around my energy, my health, and, yes, my chihuahua-centric lifestyle.

And what have I learned so far?

Oh, just a few tiny things like:

  • You don’t have to wait until you “feel ready” (you can start now, imperfectly.)
  • Everyone starts with zero clients.
  • Portfolio shame is real, but so is progress.
  • Grammarly is helpful, but your instincts matter more.
  • And charging for your work isn’t selfish. It’s survival. (Ooh, also: coffee isn’t free.)

But maybe the biggest thing I’ve learned? You don’t have to do it alone. The copywriting world is full of kind, curious, generous humans. And if you’re just starting out, too—hi! Pull up a chair. You’re in good company here.

Let’s Chat

Just starting your copywriting journey, too? Thinking about dipping a toe in those warm freelance waters? I’d love to hear from you: whether you’ve got questions, stories to share, or just want someone to cheer you on! Leave a comment, send me a message, or let’s connect over coffee (virtual or otherwise).

Here’s to building something beautiful… one word at a time.

How I Learned to Write Words That Sell (Without Selling My Soul)

Once upon a pandemic, I fell down a rabbit hole lined with marketing emails, oddly persuasive Instagram captions, and websites that made me think, “Wow, someone actually got paid to write this?”

That’s when it hit me: copywriting isn’t just clever—it’s a craft. And I wanted in.

Step One: DIY Copy School (a.k.a. Me + the Internet)

I devoured blog posts, free webinars, swipe files, and YouTube videos with thumbnail faces frozen mid-emphasis. I studied sales pages like sacred scrolls. I started spotting patterns—hooks, pain points, calls to action—and I got way too excited about subject lines.

It was thrilling, but also kind of chaotic. Like trying to learn to bake by watching a thousand TikToks but never quite getting the full recipe. I needed structure.

Step Two: Getting Strategic (Thanks, U of T)

Enter: the Strategic Copywriting certificate from the University of Toronto School of Continuing Studies.

Finally, a real syllabus. With deadlines. And feedback that didn’t come from my own inner critic. The course covered everything from brand voice to persuasive frameworks, email marketing to landing pages—and let me tell you, it was like a lightbulb factory in my brain.

It connected the dots. All those concepts I’d been piecing together on my own suddenly snapped into place. I wasn’t just writing clever lines—I was solving problems, shaping narratives, and guiding people toward action (without sounding like a used car salesperson).

What I’ve Learned (So Far)

– Copywriting isn’t about being cute (though a well-placed pun never hurts). It’s about clarity, empathy, and strategy.
– Good copy starts with listening—to your audience, your client, and sometimes, your own intuition.
– The editing process is everything. Your first draft is raw clay. Rewrite, reshape, repeat.
– Tone is a superpower. Casual, polished, quirky, trustworthy—it’s all in the delivery.

Bonus Realization: I Actually Like Marketing Now

Before this journey, I saw marketing as this slightly cringe world of buzzwords and manipulation. Now? I see it as communication with purpose. When it’s done right, it’s kind, clever, and helpful. It’s not about pushing products—it’s about connecting with people.

And that, I think, is kind of beautiful.

What’s Next?

I’m finishing up the Strategic Copywriting certificate from U of T and continuing to build my freelance business, polish my portfolio, and help others find the right words for their ideas, offers, and dreams. Whether it’s writing for educators, small businesses, or non-profits, I’m especially passionate about words that are accessible, inclusive, and human.

The Strategic Copywriting course has given me a solid foundation. My self-teaching continues to give me curiosity and scrappy resilience. And together? They’ve shaped the way I write, work, and think about the power of good copy.

So if you’re wondering whether you can learn this stuff? You absolutely can. Start scrappy, stay curious, and don’t be afraid to invest in your growth.

Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’ve got a three-part marketing campaign assignment to edit and a fourth cup of coffee calling my name.

Thinking about learning copywriting or hiring one?
Contact me or check out my portfolio.