About (Biography)
Born and raised in Rochester, New York.
Schools: Penfield High School, Monroe Community College, University of Rochester, Finger Lakes Community College, SUNY Brockport, University of South Florida
The eldest of four girls, daughter of craftswoman and fine artist Jo Ann Gentle and writer Willis "Bill" Vanderschmidt, Patty's own writing was first published when she was just sixteen years old. Always intrepid, Patty arranged to review concerts by then-unknown rising stars such as Elton John and James Taylor. Her musical interests eventually landed her an "internship" with WCMF radio when they were first located on Main Street in downtown Rochester and subsequently at their Leighton Avenue studios. Patty went on to work as night shift engineer at WVOR radio as well as hosting her own radio shows at WMCC and WRUR 88.5 FM during her early college years. After a break from academics during which she married and gave birth to her son, John, Patty worked as a chef at various restaurant and held various writing gigs and jobs in publishing until she returned to the world of academics when her son reached school age. She spent a semester and a half majoring in music recording at Finger Lakes Community College before deciding to pursue a higher degree in English Literature.
Patty lived in the Rochester area until June, 2000 when she moved to Tampa, Florida, to pursue a post-graduate degree. During her eight years in Tampa, Patty completed her Master's degree and taught freshman college composition and business writing at the University of South Florida.
She is a seasoned professional writer, editor, detail-oriented proofreader with mad PC skills. A compulsive multitasker, she was also trained in the "old school" method of publication layout and design. She made the transition to desktop publishing easily. She also serves as a mentor and adjunct professor of English Composition at Finger Lakes Community College. She is a self-professed fountain of trivia and research maven.
She currently writes about day trip destinations for Examiner.com
Schools: Penfield High School, Monroe Community College, University of Rochester, Finger Lakes Community College, SUNY Brockport, University of South Florida
The eldest of four girls, daughter of craftswoman and fine artist Jo Ann Gentle and writer Willis "Bill" Vanderschmidt, Patty's own writing was first published when she was just sixteen years old. Always intrepid, Patty arranged to review concerts by then-unknown rising stars such as Elton John and James Taylor. Her musical interests eventually landed her an "internship" with WCMF radio when they were first located on Main Street in downtown Rochester and subsequently at their Leighton Avenue studios. Patty went on to work as night shift engineer at WVOR radio as well as hosting her own radio shows at WMCC and WRUR 88.5 FM during her early college years. After a break from academics during which she married and gave birth to her son, John, Patty worked as a chef at various restaurant and held various writing gigs and jobs in publishing until she returned to the world of academics when her son reached school age. She spent a semester and a half majoring in music recording at Finger Lakes Community College before deciding to pursue a higher degree in English Literature.
Patty lived in the Rochester area until June, 2000 when she moved to Tampa, Florida, to pursue a post-graduate degree. During her eight years in Tampa, Patty completed her Master's degree and taught freshman college composition and business writing at the University of South Florida.
She is a seasoned professional writer, editor, detail-oriented proofreader with mad PC skills. A compulsive multitasker, she was also trained in the "old school" method of publication layout and design. She made the transition to desktop publishing easily. She also serves as a mentor and adjunct professor of English Composition at Finger Lakes Community College. She is a self-professed fountain of trivia and research maven.
She currently writes about day trip destinations for Examiner.com
What others are saying about Patty:
Regarding the development and writing of a technical user's manual for medical equipment:
"The team is very appreciative, and the manual will set the bar for any other similar work done at OCD. Great job, Patty!" Martin Webster, President, ADMS, on completion of a user manual for Ortho Clinical Diagnostics.
See My LinkedIn Profile for my Resume/CV
Regarding the development and writing of a technical user's manual for medical equipment:
"The team is very appreciative, and the manual will set the bar for any other similar work done at OCD. Great job, Patty!" Martin Webster, President, ADMS, on completion of a user manual for Ortho Clinical Diagnostics.
Regarding teaching:
“Patty brings a generous spirit and a sense of fun into the composition classroom, challenging her students to think critically. However, I think her greatest strength as a teacher is her vast knowledge of pop culture which allows her to connect with her students. Patty has a lot to offer.” Marian Conklin , Adjunct Professor , University of South Florida
See My LinkedIn Profile for my Resume/CV
Academics:
- Master of Arts in English Literature, University of South Florida (2005)
- Bachelor of Science in English Literature, State University of New York at Brockport (2000)
- Associate's Degree in Music Recording and English (1998)
