Select elective coursework in a particular area of interest. Write for campus publications such as college newspapers, magazines, or departmental/program newsletters. Volunteer to assist or tutor students in a writing center. For technical writing positions obtain a concentration in technical writing. Take science and/or computer courses to gain knowledge about technical areas and trends. Become familiar with the proposal writing and submission process involved in freelance writing. Gain as much experience as possible through volunteer positions, internships, or part-time jobs. Demonstrate patience and persistence in starting a career in creative writing.
Obtain appropriate state certification for public school teaching. Earn certification to teach multiple subjects or age groups for increased job opportunities. Earn a master's or doctorate degree for post-secondary teaching. Plan to attend graduate school in college student personnel or information science if those are areas of interest. Gain volunteer experience working with children through Big Brother/Sister programs, tutoring, summer camps, YMCA's, etc. Participate in school activities such as debate or literary clubs, campus publications, or student government. Get involved in roles of leadership such as resident advisor, peer mentor, student advisor, etc. Maintain a high grade point average and secure strong faculty recommendations for graduate school applications.
Obtain an internship in the publishing industry. Participate in a summer publishing institute. Develop word processing, editing, and desktop publishing skills. Gain additional technical skills if working in an online environment. Gain experience by writing for student publications such as the newspaper, creative writing magazines, the yearbook, etc. Conduct an informational interview with or shadow a professional in the publishing industry. Look for positions with local dailies and alternative weeklies in the community. Volunteer to write or edit publications with local nonprofit organizations to gain experience. Develop extensive grammar and language skills. Be prepared to relocate to cities with a publishing presence. Research the publishing industry to learn more about career ladders.
Demonstrate talent, persistence, assertiveness, and enthusiasm. Be prepared to start in an entry-level position. Obtain strong statistics background for market research positions. Create a portfolio of writing and ideas showing originality and imagination for creative positions. Gain knowledge of various media, contemporary tastes, and trends. Obtain experience with campus newspaper, TV, or radio. Participate in sales and promotions for student organizations or private businesses. Complete an internship in a market research firm or advertising agency. Supplement curriculum with courses in business (marketing, economics, mathematics), art, or graphic design.
Obtain internship or other relevant work experience to break into this field. Be prepared to start at the bottom and work towards higher levels. Develop strong research skills, public speaking ability, enthusiasm, and interpersonal skills. Supplement curriculum with business courses. Become an effective team member by working on group projects for campus organizations. Volunteer to write publications for nonprofit or student organizations.
Obtain a business minor. Gain work experience through part-time jobs, internships, or relevant volunteer work. Secure leadership roles in campus organizations. Join student professional associations and seek leadership roles. Develop strong analytical and computer skills. Gain experience as financial officer or treasurer of a campus organization.
Develop strong organizational skills and attention to detail. Become skillful in debate and public speaking. Organize campus events, speakers, or political rallies. Obtain summer or part-time work in a law firm. Plan to shadow an attorney to learn more about the field. Complete special training requirements for paralegal positions. Attend law school and earn a JD to become an attorney. Maintain an excellent grade point average and secure strong faculty recommendations to gain law school admittance. Plan to take the LSAT.
Prepared by the Career Planning staff of Career Services at The University of Tennessee, Knoxville. (1992, Revised 1999, 2004, 2006) UTK is an EEO/AA/Title VI/Title IX/Section 504/ADA/ADEA Employer