<p><span class="p-body">In 2010, when Adrián Puentes arrived in New York from Chile, he was ready to embrace the city's dynamic environment with open arms. Yet, he couldn't help but feel that the richness of his own language and culture was underrepresented in the global publishing market. It was at the NYU School of Professional Studies, within the <a href="/content/sps-nyu/explore/degrees-and-programs/ms-in-professional-writing.html">MS in Publishing: Digital and Print Media program</a>, that Adrián found the inspiration and the tools to change this narrative.</span></p>

<p>&quot;I've loved books ever since I was a kid, so when I moved to New York, I decided to study publishing,&quot; Puentes shares about his decision to join the program, drawn by its comprehensive industry insight and engaging learning environment. Originally aiming to become a literary editor, Puentes&nbsp;realized that his passion for connecting writers with audiences could be fulfilled from a different angle—as a literary agent.</p> <p>Puentes's NYU SPS experience included courses that would later play pivotal roles in his career. He recalls, &quot;A lot of the courses were very interesting. I remember, for example, the Contract Negotiation class, which ended up being fundamental for my work as an agent.&quot; It's the practical skills and theoretical knowledge gained from these classes that Puentes&nbsp;still refers to today.</p>

<p>Living in New York as an international student was initially challenging for Puentes, but he gradually discovered the city's &quot;overwhelming artistic offerings, the parks, the music, the bars, and, especially, the powerful vibe of the most diverse city in the world.&quot;&nbsp;</p> <p>His advice to current and incoming international students is to immerse themselves in all that New York has to offer and build as many contacts as possible. &quot;New York allows you to live the city as you want it,&quot; he says, encouraging students to embrace the city's diversity and dynamism.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><span class="p-body">The capstone project, a highlight of the MS in Publishing program, became the launchpad for an entrepreneurial venture for Adrián. He utilized this project to craft a business plan for what would become the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.puentesagency.com/">Puentes Literary Agency</a>&nbsp;in Santiago, Chile.&nbsp;</span></p> <p><span class="p-body">This vision has since become a reality, with the Puentes&nbsp;Literary Agency now representing an array of Latin American writers and illustrators to the global market.</span></p> <p><span class="p-body">Courses like Management and Leadership further equipped Puentes&nbsp;with the skills needed to lead his company successfully. &quot;Having that kind of knowledge is fundamental,&quot; he reflects on learning how to approach projects strategically and lead a team effectively.</span></p> <p><span class="p-body">Starting the Puentes&nbsp;Literary Agency was a gradual process, but Adrián's dedication and strategic attendance at international book fairs have seen the agency grow to represent about 15 writers and illustrators. He focuses on promoting Latin American talent that offers artistic quality to discerning readers worldwide.</span></p> <p><span class="p-body">Puentes's experience at NYU SPS not only shaped his career but also empowered him to bridge cultures through literature. Earning an&nbsp;<a href="/content/sps-nyu/explore/degrees-and-programs/ms-in-publishing.html">MS in Publishing</a>&nbsp;can be a path forward for you to do the same.</span></p>