Some time back I posted an article about some doubt still flickering in the minds of many would-be writers. I asked the question to know whether a writing qualification is essential for anyone willing to become a writer. I suggested that although you may have a good academic qualification you’d need to master some basic writing skills.
I just came across a similar query on the discussion board of Writers and Editors, which I thought might be of interest to whoever is still hesitant to embrace the writing world. A student submitted the following question: “Do I need a college degree to be a writer?” And the given answer, which is somewhat blunt, seems to converge on the thoughts expressed in my post: “No, you do not need a college degree to be a writer, although you might need one to get some of the jobs that sustain writers who can’t make a living selling their material freelance.” You may read the rest here.
“Writers and Editors” is packed with resources for writers. There are a number of other interesting questions and answers. Some are listed below if you’d like to take a peek:
– How to approach an editor an agent has recommended
– How can I get started writing the story of my life?
– Stop typing two spaces after the period!
– What’s the difference between a query and a proposal?
– How can I avoid being sued for libel?
Whether you have a degree or not, if you enjoy writing go ahead.
Mauritian residing in Rodrigues, Amanoola Khayrattee (pen name Alfa King) is contributing writer and journalist to La Gazette Mag de l’océan indien and This Week News Mauritius.
Retired, former meteorological cadre, trade unionist and OSH consultant, Amanoola has written for in-house union and other journals, publications and magazines. He runs two blogs since 2007: “Alfa King Memories”, and “Le Journal d’Alfa King”. When he is not reading or writing, he is on a 10+ km daily hike in anticipation of his monthly trails.
Amanoola may be reached at [email protected].
Hey,
Good point about not needing a college degree to make it as a writer. In fact, even some corporate copy writing and technical writing jobs don’t require it. I know of a few major companies where what really matters is whether or not you have the writing experience and ability. If you can do well on their writing tests and demonstrate that you have the talent and related experience, you’re usually welcome. The degree is secondary, if it even matters at all.
And of course, as a freelancer it doesn’t matter at all. Though an English degree does help when getting your first few clients if you don’t have any clips yet.
The point is, though, if you have the ability, the desire, and the willingness to work hard, you will make it far faster than someone who has a degree but doesn’t possess those three attributes.
Jesse Hines
vigorouswriting.blogspot.com