When we all have to leave the nest and do something. For many, it involves going to college. I am myself think that I'm going many others along that path in two years time. Yeah, I'll be a junior next year, and where I'm from, that means I'll start looking at schools. I'm a little torn at the moment. I feel as if I should be a pastor or something along those lines, while on the other I have the urge to write for a living. At this point, they're weighing equally on me. So, anybody know any good US schools that devote themselves to writing (I'm thinking anykind will do)? I mean, I could google this, but I'd rather get some actual opinions instead of google's friends.
I believe a lot of schools are focusing more on communication these days, because the business world is demanding it. Too many college graduates have been entering the workplace unable to communicate clearly, not only in writing but verbally as well. This is leading to more of an emphasis on writing, and in oral presentation skills. In the University of Phoenix (derisively called Pop-up University because of their widespread Internet ads), every class has to write several clear, well researched papers, and one team project presented before the class if it is not a 100% online course.
If you are a pastor, you will write for a living. A sermon every week. Honestly, it sounds kind of fun. edit: Actually, more than a sermon a week. Three or four, or so.
Different kind of writing there. On one hand, I'm kind of responsible for not leading people astray, and on the other I'm allowed to experiment. I was referencing creative writing. I suppose I should've clarified that.
I don't know of many colleges that specialize in creative writing. Most colleges focus on the workplace and scholarly applications, which Creative writing doesn't fall under. You'll probably find creative writing courses, But I doubt there will be anything like Creative writing degrees. You'll probably have to go for an English Degree to get close.
Well I can't say about the US, but in the UK most universities have creative writing clubs, and there are usually several modules in the English course on aspects of creative writing. I think some universities run creative writing courses as I seem to remember seeing advertisements in the Writers' and Artists' Yearbook.
In Australia you can do a Creative Arts major, which focuses on every aspect of the imagination- from its construction and cognitive processes to practical applications in literature, visual art and drama. I'm sure there's a similar course offered at the universities of your country.. Either way, there's bound to be workshops or hobby-clubs specialising in areas such as creative thinking and writing.
colleges in Canada have writing and journalism courses; One author I enjoy reading is a priest. He writes mysteries and for the life of me I cannot remember his name right now. His stories are based on the area of Notredame college teams and Ireland. I think you could be a pastor and a writer. Most authors have what people call a real job while they write.
You might also want to check out the University of Houston Creative Writing Program. I've heard that Texas and the school in Iowa I've mentioned are two of the best places you can get training in creative writing in the world. A few of my English professors have recommended it to me.
^ Yes, do both. That way, if your writing plans don't exactly work out - or work out too well at the beginning - you always have something to fall back on.
The only way I could do that would be a Pastor first, and then a writer. Only, if I write I want to learn from profesionals, not just writing as I am now. Thanks for all the imput, guys.
