12 answers
La'Kayla
Student
Rock Hill, South Carolina
4
Questions
Asked
917 views
What should I major in if I wanted to write stories?
What would be something good to major in for a writer. I'm only in the 10th grade but I would like to graduate early so I would like to think about this. I write things from as small as poems and short stories, to books with 30 pages.
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12 answers
Tom Behan
Humble retired marketing wizard
95
Answers
Seattle, Washington
Updated
Tom’s Answer
Hi La'Kayla (pretty name!)
I'm in agreement with the rest, if you want decent advice.
However, if it's my opinion you'll accept, that's a different story.
I'd encourage you to sign up for the most unconventional courses you discover. School, community classes. Seize the next chance that comes your way. It's essential to gather a variety of life experiences. Make it a habit to jot down every peculiar concept that crosses your path. Embark on journeys. Conduct interviews. Begin with your family and friends. Dive deep with your inquiries; "What's the most enjoyable memory you have?" "Why do you think that is?" (Do you see what I'm getting at?). Then ask permission to interview strangers.
{Insight: it is MUCH easier to interview strangers if you tell them you are working for the high school newspaper on human interest stories. Or a community newspaper. Or something like these. See if you can get involved with
that entity as an outlet for your human interest stories. Makes GETTING the story much easier.}
Here's another idea: Let your imagination run wild. Fantasize. Daydream. Think positive thoughts. You want ideas, insights, emotions. Take notes. If it's legal where you are, you might choose to consider trying marijuana.
Observe, observe, observe. Write, write, write. If your efforts are extraordinarily successful, you'll find that about one in every 8-10 stories will truly "resonate" with whom you want it to. .....speaking from experience here :)
Best of luck to you, my friend. I kinda have a hunch you'll do well.
I'm in agreement with the rest, if you want decent advice.
However, if it's my opinion you'll accept, that's a different story.
I'd encourage you to sign up for the most unconventional courses you discover. School, community classes. Seize the next chance that comes your way. It's essential to gather a variety of life experiences. Make it a habit to jot down every peculiar concept that crosses your path. Embark on journeys. Conduct interviews. Begin with your family and friends. Dive deep with your inquiries; "What's the most enjoyable memory you have?" "Why do you think that is?" (Do you see what I'm getting at?). Then ask permission to interview strangers.
{Insight: it is MUCH easier to interview strangers if you tell them you are working for the high school newspaper on human interest stories. Or a community newspaper. Or something like these. See if you can get involved with
that entity as an outlet for your human interest stories. Makes GETTING the story much easier.}
Here's another idea: Let your imagination run wild. Fantasize. Daydream. Think positive thoughts. You want ideas, insights, emotions. Take notes. If it's legal where you are, you might choose to consider trying marijuana.
Observe, observe, observe. Write, write, write. If your efforts are extraordinarily successful, you'll find that about one in every 8-10 stories will truly "resonate" with whom you want it to. .....speaking from experience here :)
Best of luck to you, my friend. I kinda have a hunch you'll do well.
Loved reading this, thanks!
La'Kayla
Paul Goetzinger MPA
Academic and Career Consultant and Freelance Writer
657
Answers
Seattle, Washington
Updated
Paul’s Answer
A Bachelor's Degree in English, with an emphasis in Creative Writing is, in my opinion, the best choice.
Rachel Ryan
Documentation Specialist
20
Answers
Irvine, California
Updated
Rachel’s Answer
I agree with many before, English is a great start, especially programs with a creative writing emphasis if that is the route you are interested in taking. To add to that, I might suggest looking into liberal arts colleges and universities as those schools may have a greater focus on writing across disciplines so it will help create a well-rounded skillset in your writing that isn't limited to only the English or humanities department classes. In addition to a major and what coursework you might take, getting involved with your school's newspaper or other programs that help provide even more skills to hone your craft. That could also be if the school has a tutoring center, being a writing tutor, the best way to learn is being confident enough to teach others.
Morgan Simpson
Production Assistant
1
Answer
Nashville, Tennessee
Updated
Morgan’s Answer
Hi La’Kayla!
Congrats on your writing achievements so far. Completing any literary work, whether it’s poetry or short stories, is a remarkable feat.
My first piece of advice for you would to be to gravitate towards writing what you enjoy most. Is it poetry? Fiction? Non? See what you like, and where you thrive. You will know where you thrive because the words will spill out of you rather effortlessly.
You can keep writing different genres, but it’s good to know your specialty. The good thing about writing, especially nowadays, is that you can take almost any academic path and still work towards your writing dreams. Once you decide what you want to write, let’s say fiction books for example, your first step is to, well, write!
When you complete your book, you will take to a search engine. Lookup literary agents that acquire your genre. Literally type in: “literary agent mystery series” for example.
You will find some agents to submit your work to online, and that is one way to be able to publish and monetize your written work.
Another way is self publishing, for example, through Kindle Direct Publishing with Amazon. I suggest this as an alternative, because getting professionally published is better for new writers (self publishing doesn’t come with a whole lot of publicity, so that makes your job a little harder).
I hope this gives you some ideas about the future and how you can be successful with your writing. I wish you the absolute best!
Congrats on your writing achievements so far. Completing any literary work, whether it’s poetry or short stories, is a remarkable feat.
My first piece of advice for you would to be to gravitate towards writing what you enjoy most. Is it poetry? Fiction? Non? See what you like, and where you thrive. You will know where you thrive because the words will spill out of you rather effortlessly.
You can keep writing different genres, but it’s good to know your specialty. The good thing about writing, especially nowadays, is that you can take almost any academic path and still work towards your writing dreams. Once you decide what you want to write, let’s say fiction books for example, your first step is to, well, write!
When you complete your book, you will take to a search engine. Lookup literary agents that acquire your genre. Literally type in: “literary agent mystery series” for example.
You will find some agents to submit your work to online, and that is one way to be able to publish and monetize your written work.
Another way is self publishing, for example, through Kindle Direct Publishing with Amazon. I suggest this as an alternative, because getting professionally published is better for new writers (self publishing doesn’t come with a whole lot of publicity, so that makes your job a little harder).
I hope this gives you some ideas about the future and how you can be successful with your writing. I wish you the absolute best!
Thank you, Morgan for the advice.
La'Kayla
Alicia Wilson
1
Answer
Chester, Virginia
Updated
Alicia’s Answer
Hi! I think the best major would be creative writing. Having already written poems, and short stories, you have the passion to succeed and the understanding of what it takes. Just keep writing, and perfecting it. With your passion, you are bound to succeed!
Thank you for the advice, Alicia.
La'Kayla
Audrey A. Bates
N/A
3
Answers
Corvallis, Oregon
Updated
Audrey A.’s Answer
Hello La'Kayla!
As a writer, there are so many career paths you could follow, since a lot of employers need writers. That said, it doesn't matter what you major in as long as you follow your passion. I would say if you want to write stories you should take some creative writing courses and/or get involved with a writers group. I hope that helps.
Good luck!
As a writer, there are so many career paths you could follow, since a lot of employers need writers. That said, it doesn't matter what you major in as long as you follow your passion. I would say if you want to write stories you should take some creative writing courses and/or get involved with a writers group. I hope that helps.
Good luck!
Kate Beale
Web content strategy
3
Answers
San Francisco, California
Updated
Kate’s Answer
Hello La'Kayla,
That is an excellent question. And there's probably not one clear answer. Time, research, and experience will help you gain some insights into the best direction for you.
There are numerous majors that require skills in writing. These include journalism, English, media, creative writing (typically classified as a fine arts major due to the creative aspect), and comparative literature.
However, don't feel confined. You're fortunate to have a passion for writing because being a good communicator is a critical skill in many majors and career paths . The ability to express your thoughts clearly and communicate key points effectively often sets exceptional students apart from their peers. So, even if writing is your passion, you might discover more avenues to apply your skills than you initially thought.
No matter which major you eventually choose, continue to flex your writing muscles. Like any muscle in your body, your writing will only get stronger if you practice and challenge yourself, which is something you can do independently or as part of your major.
That is an excellent question. And there's probably not one clear answer. Time, research, and experience will help you gain some insights into the best direction for you.
There are numerous majors that require skills in writing. These include journalism, English, media, creative writing (typically classified as a fine arts major due to the creative aspect), and comparative literature.
However, don't feel confined. You're fortunate to have a passion for writing because being a good communicator is a critical skill in many majors and career paths . The ability to express your thoughts clearly and communicate key points effectively often sets exceptional students apart from their peers. So, even if writing is your passion, you might discover more avenues to apply your skills than you initially thought.
No matter which major you eventually choose, continue to flex your writing muscles. Like any muscle in your body, your writing will only get stronger if you practice and challenge yourself, which is something you can do independently or as part of your major.
Thank you for taking the time to help.
La'Kayla
Jeffery Iyere
Screen writer
1
Answer
Benin City, Edo, Nigeria
Updated
Jeffery’s Answer
major in Creative Writing, English, Literature, or a related field would be a great choice if you want to focus on writing stories. These majors can help you develop your writing skills, explore various genres, and gain a deeper understanding of storytelling techniques
Thanks, can't wait to put this advice into action!
La'Kayla
Jerome Dees Jr.
Sales Professional and Networking Expert
522
Answers
San Francisco, California
Updated
Jerome’s Answer
I majored in Psychology and Philosophy and ended up publishing a book on catering sales.
I think doing a major in journalism or creative writing will give you some good insights while allowing you to major in something else you are interested and give you a contingency.
I think doing a major in journalism or creative writing will give you some good insights while allowing you to major in something else you are interested and give you a contingency.
Thank you so much, Jerome!
La'Kayla
Ivy Wright
Marketing
1
Answer
Indianapolis, Indiana
Updated
Ivy’s Answer
The most valuable guidance I can offer is to pursue a degree in a creative field that truly ignites your passion. I chose to study music, but I also ventured into unique areas like modern architecture and specialized literature subjects. You have the option to offer your services as a writing tutor or assistant, which can be a rewarding experience. I've always had a knack for writing, and this skill has been instrumental in my internships and professional roles. For the past 14 years, I've had the privilege of writing for large tech firms and esteemed museums or non-profit organizations, focusing on marketing and public relations. Writing is not just my job, but also my hobby. I strongly recommend seizing as many job opportunities and internships as possible that offer a chance to expand your knowledge about writing and enhance your abilities.
I appreciate you taking the time to answer this.
La'Kayla
Devon Williams
Journalism
2
Answers
Portland, Oregon
Updated
Devon’s Answer
You have several paths to choose from. A degree in Creative Writing likely offers the most flexibility and versatility, but Poetry is also a great choice.
I appreciate you taking the time to answer this.
La'Kayla
Andhi Jeltu
Script writer/content writer
9
Answers
Jos, Plateau, Nigeria
Updated
Andhi’s Answer
You're already a Writer since you've written books and poems it isn't little. You good at it,just perfect it by working on it.
It don't matter what grade you're in. Writing is good because it comes from the heart. You pour out yourself in writing especially when you love talking about things. Most people become good writers irrespective of profession. You can choose to be a medical practitioner or scientist or whatever. Being a writer is something we all learn especially when you're a good Reader. Like it's said "Readers are Writers and writers are Readers!"
You're on the right track already put in your best.
It don't matter what grade you're in. Writing is good because it comes from the heart. You pour out yourself in writing especially when you love talking about things. Most people become good writers irrespective of profession. You can choose to be a medical practitioner or scientist or whatever. Being a writer is something we all learn especially when you're a good Reader. Like it's said "Readers are Writers and writers are Readers!"
You're on the right track already put in your best.
I appreciate your support, Andhi
La'Kayla