1) Why did you decide to get into this industry?

Since I was young, I watched a lot of movies and always loved the feeling of when a movie ended, you walked away with that story and lived with it in from there. It became a part of you like you lived that adventure. I wanted to be a part of that in some aspect. When I discovered writing, I learned that I could tell the adventures that I wanted to be a part of and others to experience through my writing.

 

2) What’s a defining moment in your life?

In regards to writing, the most defining moment in my life was to have my writing mentor tell me, “You can do this.” It was the first time someone, especially from the industry, gave me that type of encouragement. I still carry it with me to this day.

 

3) What is your biggest concern with the future?

Being able to share my stories to a large audience.

 

4) What is a successful moment in your career so far?

When I had someone come up to me after a screening of my work and tell me that they related to it. That’s all I ever want; is someone to relate with what I’m writing.

 

5) What advice do you have for other women in the industry?

Just to keep trying. There’s a huge difficulty with trying to balance your 9-5 job with creative work. It’s something I still struggle with and continue to push on from. Don’t overwhelm yourself and take it one step at a time.

 

6) What, if anything, do you collect?

I collect bits of everything! My most recent is Disney enamel pins. I also love collecting books. I don’t think I could ever not have physical books around.

 

7) What are you working on next? In addition, if people want to find out more about you, where can they find you on social media?

I’m on the gram (@Marpio) and Twitter (@SarahMarpio). My next step would be to shop some pilots around that I’ve written and submit to writing fellowships. I’m also considering signing up for some sketch writing classes at Groundlings just to get those creative juices flowing.