I majored in creative writing in college, and in the years since then, I’ve worked as a copywriter and editorial assistant for a handful of magazines. But until very recently, I’ve always considered myself part of the great majority: people who enjoy reading, maybe write a bit here and there, but don’t really pursue it as a career. That is, until the Covid-19 pandemic. Now, more than ever, a creative writing degree might just save you from a life of mediocrity.
The Surprise Of Success
When I finally did get around to applying for jobs after graduating, I learned a valuable lesson: no one ever really knows what it’s like to be unemployed, and nowhere are those feelings more acutely felt than by the recent graduate. After several months, I finally got a call back for a job I’d applied for a long time before. It was an editorial assistant position at a magazine, and it was both exciting and nerve-wracking to have an offer after months of nothing.
The only problem was, my first day of work was going to be the following Tuesday, and I still had college exams to study for. I was completely stressed out, barely able to sleep. When I told my boss I was worried about my studies, he told me not to come in that day, but to take the following week off instead. It was then that I learned how invaluable a creative writing degree was, and how lucky I was to have gotten one.
Creative Writing Is (Usually) An Intermediate To Advanced Degree
A creative writing degree is probably the least researched major in terms of the demands that it makes on its students. While many people argue that a bachelor’s degree is enough to enter the workforce, you might have to prove yourself more than just being able to write. Many jobs require the knowledge of specific software, the ability to deal with diverse subject matter, or a distinct command of both English and literary theory. So, for those interested in pursuing a creative writing career in either fiction or non-fiction, here’s what you need to know.
The Majors
Since the Covid-19 pandemic, a creative writing major has become highly sought-after, and a good portion of those jobs are in either editorial or marketing positions. For those who want to enter the field, a solid background in creative writing can help, as can a good portion of the jobs in this field. But if you really want to stand out, you can take a specialized course in Magazine Management with a Creative Writing emphasis, which will help you in your job search, and give you a leg up in the industry. There are also jobs available in magazine proofreading, which requires less technical knowledge but more than just a passion for writing.
The Job Search
Finding a job in a field you’re passionate about isn’t difficult; it’s finding that job that you’re properly equipped for, and creative writing is no different. It can be hard to keep up with all the job listings, especially when you’re competing with people who have more experience, so don’t worry about being equipped for the job; just be equipped for the job search. Keep reading the listings, and make sure you’re applying for the right positions for your qualifications. It might also be a good idea to look for jobs that you can do remotely, as many companies are now offering working from home opportunities. This way, you won’t face any distractions, and you’ll be able to apply your full concentration to finding the best job for you.
How To Determine If Creative Writing Is Right For You
So, you’re interested in pursuing a creative writing career. That’s great! Just remember that while it might be an easy A, it’s not necessarily an easy career. You’ll need to work hard, put in the hours, and maybe even complete a few internships before you begin to see tangible results. But, the experience of being a creative writer is truly amazing, and while it might not be for everyone, for those who do enjoy it, it’s the perfect degree for them.