Anna M. Gralton PhD's Profile

I was born and raised in Queensland, Australia. I currently operate a freelance writing and research service – Freelance Formations. In 2007 I completed a doctorate by research in Applied Rural Sociology. My PhD was entitled, Endogenous Regional Development: Cottage Industries in Tasmanian Agriculture. I pursued studies in this discipline/topic due to my interest in the social and environmental implications of development. It involved the examination of a development model that is more closely aligned with sustainability. It also enabled a meeting of my three interests -- environmental, social, and economics (business). My diverse background and life experiences offer inspiration and inform my writing. With a predominantly academic background, I am currently pursuing writing as an outlet for my creativity and a way to tap into my other interests (whilst getting a message across). I take great satisfaction in thinking that I might be able to relay a message to an audience, or just give someone a much needed laugh for the day. Apart from possessing professional experience in academia, government, and the hospitality sector, my interest in environmental and social matters is reflected in my educational background. In addition to my PhD, I have a degree in Environmental Science; honours in Environmental Sociology; and, an Associate Diploma of Business (Hospitality). Some of my other passions include animal welfare; gardening; DIY; genealogy; and, bushwalking. My family is also very important to me. In 2002 I married an Alabamian and we settled in Australia. We recently relocated to the Snowy Mountains of Australia and live in this beautiful part of the country with our hodgepodge of rescued pets. Simplicity and nature I would say are my keywords for living. I constantly strive to avoid the consumption frenzy. It is not only good for the purse, but also for the environment and the mind. I also constantly remind myself of how lucky we are to live in our part of the world -- something that easily slips one's mind when getting caught up in the hype of it all.