Profile Written by: Ben Hollingshead, Volunteer
The Words Alive 2023 Curriculum Editor of the Year, Win Ning Chen, is a remarkable volunteer with a unique hobby; in her spare time, she builds terrariums that are “aesthetically pleasing and super cute!” Win Ning grew up in Malaysia, and as a child, she always loved reading because it allowed her to travel to different worlds by pretending to be different characters in the books she read.
In 2021, Win Ning embarked on an adventure of her own when she moved approximately 9,000 miles away from her childhood home to San Diego, taking on a position as a research assistant working on aging and neuroscience in the biomedical sector. Win Ning finds that reading has improved her ability to communicate and write, as English is not her first language.
Win heard about Words Alive from a colleague while looking for volunteer opportunities. At Words Alive, Win Ning works carefully to edit the curricula developed by the writing team. Win Ning’s attention to detail has been instrumental in producing a final polished product that is usable and comprehensible to all readers. Win edited seven curriculum guides in 2022, the same year she joined Words Alive, and has quickly become an invaluable team member. Win Ning is passionate about ensuring everyone can access quality reading materials and education.
Win Ning’s love for learning is evident as she describes the knowledge from reading the Words Alive books and curricula as powerful! She hopes to continue working as Curriculum Editor and would also like to expand her role to work as a mentor for teens at Words Alive. “Volunteering with Words Alive allows me to effectively contribute to society by providing the community with quality reading and teaching materials that are creative, innovative, and aim to create the love for reading, writing, and education as a whole.” Win Ning, thank you for all your hard work, and congratulations on winning Curriculum Editor of the Year!
Book recommendation: Win is currently reading, When Breath Becomes Air, a non-fiction autobiographical book written by American neurosurgeon Paul Kalanithi who recently died of lung cancer at age 37. Another classic book she would recommend is Jurassic Park by Michael Crichton! (She loves dinosaurs!)