Myth 3: You need a degree in English to be a writer
Atharv Bhardwaj
Enthusiastic Learner | 55K+ Impressions on LinkedIn | BBA (Honors+Research) in Marketing | Corporate Affairs Cell | MUNner | Ex-Internship Trainee at Axis Finance Limited |
"How are you a writer, you're pursuing a BBA! Don't you need to have English honors to be a writer?"
"Why are you so keen to write when you can do something else with a BBA degree?"
I hate these questions. Because, NO, you don't need a degree in English to be a writer. While an English degree can be beneficial, many successful writers come from other backgrounds or have no college degree.
The writing industry thrives on creativity, strong storytelling, and a unique voice. These qualities can't be taught solely in a classroom. You have to have that acumen to write. Also, hard work beats talent and consistency beats everything! The most important factor is consistent writing. The more you write, the better you'll become at crafting compelling narratives and wielding language effectively.
Learning how to write can happen anywhere! There's a wealth of resources available online and in libraries to hone your craft. Books on grammar, writing techniques, and specific genres provide a strong foundation. Online communities and writing courses offer feedback and guidance.
The most important thing for a writer?
READ!
READ!
领英推荐
READ!
Reading helps a writer more than anything else. And don't just read good stuff. Read the bad stuff as well! Why, you ask? Well, you should know what to write and what NOT to write! Because let's face it. A degree in English does help you a bit if you aim to be a writer. It can give you an edge if you're consistent.
Consider it like this. If I am pursuing English honors and you're pursuing, let's say B. Tech and we're equally working hard, then I would have an edge over you. But if I am giving my 100%, then you need to give your 120% or 130%!
A degree in English does build a strong foundation. It exposes you to different writing styles, literary analysis, and the history of language. This knowledge can enrich your writing and broaden your understanding of storytelling. It hones your grammar, punctuation, and sentence structure skills, which are essential for professional writing.
Feedback and Networking are also helpful in this degree. Professors offer valuable feedback on your work, helping you identify areas for improvement and develop your unique voice, while you can connect with classmates who share your passion for writing, forming a supportive network for sharing ideas and experiences.
The decision to pursue a degree in English depends on your goals and learning style. If you're a self-motivated learner, you can find success without a formal education. However, an English degree can provide a strong foundation and accelerate your development as a writer.