40 Under 40: Eric Smith ’08M

Personally, I’d have to say me and my wife’s new addition to our family, Langston. Professionally, it’s my work as a literary agent. By the end of next year, I’ll have brought 14 books into the world, one of which will be in three languages.

Visiting writer Robin Black was my adviser on my thesis, and her patience and brilliance had a massive effect on my career. From her kind nudging of my writing to her insightful advice regarding where I should go with my career, Robin is a big reason why I am where I am today.

I’ll be writing, working on books by other people, and teaching writing and literature. It’s all I wanted to do in college, and it’s all I want to do now. Gonna keep at it.”