Hillenburg began writing at the age of two and his passion for literature knows no bounds. He is a graduate of Indiana University with a degree in English and has studied with a plethora of accomplished authors  including poet Richard Cecil and novelists Tony Ardizzone, Samrat Upadhyay, and Jacinda Townsend just to name a few.

In addition to his weekly journalism assignments for various online outlets, Hillenburg also dabbles as a writer in fiction, poetry and a collection of short stories scheduled for release later this year. He is widely read in all aspects of fiction, non-fiction, poetry and possesses doctorate level knowledge of subjects ranging from United States history, global history and feature films.

“The written word and its influence on me is one of my life’s defining elements; the compulsion to write blossomed early and has never waned. Music is very important to me as well, but ultimately pales in significance when compared to the hold creative writing has exerted over my life. I wouldn’t have it any other way.” 

Hillenburg among other thing is Midwestern born, and a father to two wonderful daughters and currently resides in Bloomington, Indiana