Choosing a Major: English or Creative Writing

When deciding between an English major and a Creative Writing minor, you have a few options to consider. Your academic advisor can provide valuable guidance, but it's important to explore the potential benefits and limitations of each path.

Exploring the English Major

Your academic advisor recommends considering an English major as a starting point. This approach allows you to gain exposure to a wide range of literary works and the achievements of other writers. An English major provides comprehensive knowledge of language, literature, and writing, which can be applicable in various career paths.

Combining Majors and Minors

Some students find that combining a major and a minor is the best route. In your case, you might be interested in pursuing an English major along with a Creative Writing minor. This dual approach can enhance your writing skills while also preparing you for a more career-oriented subject.

For example, my daughter majored in English and minored in History. She later earned a Master’s degree in Library and Information Science and now works at a public library, maintaining their website. This shows that combining disciplines can lead to diverse and fulfilling career opportunities.

The Practical Aspect of Creative Writing Minor

While pursuing both a major and a minor can be beneficial, it's also crucial to consider whether you need a major in another subject for employability. If the other subject requires a major, it might be wise to focus on a specific career path while minoring in Creative Writing.

Limitations of Specializing in English or Creative Writing

However, both an English major and a Creative Writing minor may not immediately lead to a stable income. In the current job market, there are relatively few job opportunities specifically for English or Creative Writing majors, particularly in fields like advertising or political writing. These opportunities may attract significant competition, and working for free may be the norm.

According to statistics from organizations like the Science Fiction and Fantasy Writers of America, only a small fraction of members can make a living from writing fiction. Even within this niche, most writers do not rely solely on fiction. It's important to be realistic about the number of employment opportunities in these fields.

Realistic Career Planning

Instead of relying solely on writing for a livelihood, many writers find it beneficial to supplement their income with other jobs. They might pursue careers in fields such as technical writing, web development, or even teaching, while continuing to write as a hobby.

My experience reminds me of a conversation I had with the Dean of the Art Department at Indiana University Extension in South Bend. An art student asked how to make a living in art, and the Dean humorously suggested marrying someone rich. This anecdote highlights the practical considerations you need to take into account when planning your career path.

So, is writing your calling? Absolutely! But to thrive in the workforce, you should also learn a skill or trade that can support you financially, while you can pursue your passion for writing in your spare time.

Conclusion

The decision between an English major and a Creative Writing minor largely depends on your career goals and the practical realities of the job market. While both paths offer valuable skills and experiences, a more balanced approach often yields better results. By combining a major in a career-oriented field with a minor in Creative Writing, you can set yourself up for success in a variety of industries while also pursuing your passion for writing.