With over 10 years of writing and editing experience, Janeca Racho has worked with clients in the fashion, entertainment, food, health and travel industries. She writes for The Dermstore Blog, among other popular beauty and lifestyle outlets.
Share your full name, professional title, and ho metown.
My name is Janeca Racho, and I’m a writer and copy editor. I am originally from Manila, Philippines, and I mostly write about skin care, lifestyle, education, and home design.
How did you get your start in journalism? Did you always see yourself being a journalist?
I always say I became a writer because I can’t draw, dance, or act (my singing skills are up for debate)! Kidding aside, it was in high school when I started reading a lot more and realized how much I really love writing. I didn’t think I was particularly good at it, but I credit my English and Literature teachers for encouraging me to pursue what I wanted. When I went to university, I took up Journalism and was fortunate to be surrounded by exceptional writers (my classmates and professors). They all inspired me to push myself and get past my own doubts about my own skills.
What is an accomplishment you are most proud of in your career?
It would have to be the fact that I was able to make a huge shift from my corporate job to working as a freelancer. I loved my job then (I was in PR and advertising for a few years, followed by a short stint in corporate communications) and was grateful for all the experience, but it didn’t afford me the freedom that I was craving.
What advice would you give to an aspiring journalist?
Practice, practice, and practice your craft some more! I mentioned that when I first started writing, I didn’t think I was any good at it nor did I think I’d be able to make a career out of it. It was my high school Literature teacher who saw something in my writing and encouraged me to keep honing my skills and to never stop learning. Get inspiration from your favorite writers and authors and think about what it is about their writing that draws you. The most successful writers have a unique style that makes them memorable, so try to develop your own! It will be a process, but it is only through practice that you can carve out your own unique voice and perspective.
What are you doing when you’re not writing?
When I’m not writing, you can find me scouring Netflix for the next series to binge-watch, reading, or playing games on my laptop or phone. Traveling is also something I really love to do. In fact, it’s one of the main reasons I quit my corporate job almost 15 years ago.
Where do you see yourself in five years’ time?
Traveling more and writing more! I’d love to one day write a book and finally put the stories in my head into print.
Wild Card, introvert or extrovert?
Definitely an introvert.