Have you been to college?

1. 61

   eli greyposted 13 years ago

   Have you been to college?
   
   Do you think college is overrated for people in the profession of writing? There are a lot of things that are helpful that we are exposed to there, but like any other form of art, writing is a God-given talent. Is it a waste of money? Let me know what you think.I personally think I need for my skills to be honed as a writer, but rarely doubt my overall ability.

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2. 69

   danatheteacherposted 13 years ago

   even "god-give talent" can be honed and further inspired. I would not get a degree in writing, but you will learn A LOT about writing by going to college for anything (pick something "Plan B" like). Peace.

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3. 78

   sofsposted 13 years ago

   Education could be never considered a waste or overrated. Even though I have quit my profession and am a stay at home mom my education takes me places. Suddenly out of the blues I get invitations to speak, to write on something, to judge competitions, I don't think so, yes God given talent can be honed and polished with some more education.
   Art is always helped by learning new techniques, never close your mind to college education.

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4. 81

   David 470posted 13 years ago

   I am going to college in a few days and I was going to major on writing, but there is not associates degree for it, so I am prob going to major in something else (possibly crimal justice or something to do with fitness)
   
   I am going to write on here........ cause when it comes to getting degrees no 2 year is avai;able only 4 year and you can mainly only be a teacher and writing books can be hard to get popular

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5. 59

   atafoyposted 13 years ago

   I agree with danatheteacher about not getting a degree in writing. A degree none the less would definitely be worth it. Writing is a rough profession to really get rolling in no matter how much talent you have and all the attributes you can show on paper to get you in the door the better off you'll be. Also, college will provide you with a wealth of connections and experiences. The relationships you foster in college can make an enormous difference in how well you move around in the career world, and the things you do and see will give you a much wider range of things to write about. If cost is the concern take it slow. Be aware of all the details if you take loans, and if your that talented look for writing scholarships to ease the burden. Lastly, The competition and challenge you get from the others around you that also write will be invaluable at honing your craft. Good luck.
   
   Cheers

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6. 61

   SEOshortcutsposted 13 years ago

   Yes.
   Yes.
   Yes.
   
   Sorry, just trying to be honest.  I think that an education, though it can hone your skill, is not necessary to become a great writer. 
   
   It depends on your subject matter, innate skill, and what it is you want to communicate.
   
   Do you have a native knowledge of your subject?  Do you need a degree to speak authoritatively on it?
   
   Says who?

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7. 60

   lea86posted 13 years ago

   I believe when you say that writing is a God-given talent, because to me not everyone can write a good article which can transform life or give a deep impact in someones life. I've been to college but I also half believing it is waste of money. As I finished my study, I realize that I have my school loan to pay back; and still now I don't really know what profession that I want to be, but what I want is to do something I like, and I feel that this site give me an opportunity to show my talent in writing and also I can earn more cash. I think those who really wanted to decide go to college should be ready what they are going to be when they are graduate.

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8. 60

   Tirzah Laughsposted 13 years ago

   College is not required to become a great writer but a good writing school does help but in unexpected ways.  First, a well-known writing program will build industry connections for you for when you go to publish a book or a short story collection. 
   
   It will teach you to stand up for your writing when people try to make it conform to the norm.  It'll be competative so you'll write more with better intent.
   
   It'll also teach you to take negative criticism and to give it.
   
   But you can do many of the same things with a very good workshop group.
   
   What a good writing program gives you is the incentive to publish earlier.
   
   But if its just a general writing program at a non-writing school, it's not much use.
   
   

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9. 53

   rehlfw84posted 13 years ago

   I agree that writing is a God-given talent.  Each day as a writer is an educational experience is it not?  As a college student, you will research and write.  As a working professional, you will research and write.  I do not believe it is necessary to have a college degree to pursue writing.  However, if you plan to write for some companies, a degree is required.  (They make the rules).  The upside of a college education is that is rounds you as a writer.  It is only a waste of money if you do not use your talent.
   
   Good luck in your endeavors!

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