We’re here with another interview with a newer member of our community. The title of this column is “Lower Decks,” hearkening back to the Star Trek: The Next Generation episode titled “Lower Decks,” in which junior officers aboard the Enterprise-D speculate on the reasons for recent unusual actions taken by the command crew near the Cardassian border. The theme was further popularized with the animated series Lower Decks which spent five seasons following the antics of an engaging group of Junior Officers as they carried out missions aboard the USS Cerritos.
This month’s interview is with the writer behind Ensign August Winslett playing a human, male Medical Officer assigned to the USS Astraeus.
Harford Tell us a little about the writer behind the character. What part of the world are you from? What do you enjoy doing when you’re not writing for SB118?
Winslett: I’m from Dallas, Texas (life-long Texan). When I’m not writing for SB118, I’m spending time with my beautiful wife and two amazing children, playing basketball, reading, or playing games on my Xbox. The list of hobbies was longer before we had kids.
Is this your first simming experience, or have you done other forms of role-playing before?
This is my first time role-playing in this format. I’ve played D&D in the past, but this is my first written simming experience. I love any hobby where I can interact with other people.
What’s been your favorite part of being with the community so far?
The people, definitely. I made some new friends very quickly. This group is, largely, very supportive and easy to connect with. The stories we tell are great, but they’re only fun and interesting because I get to see my friends showcase their creativity.
Do you take any inspiration from films, television, or books when writing your character?
August is mostly based on myself. I wanted to be able to focus more on writing as a team since this is my first collaborative writing RPG, so I chose to play August as “Jeff” as much as possible.
Where would you like to be in a few years? Have a taste of command of your own? Or maybe planning on joining one of our great OOC groups?
It would be interesting to see August in a command position since he abhors violence and confrontation, but I’m content to just go with the flow for now. I’m having fun! As a writer, I’d like to eventually offer myself as a mentor to new SB118 members. I want to support them in trying this hobby as I was supported when I joined.
Thanks for your time, Ensign Winslett!
You can read more about Ensign August Winslett on the wiki.
