5 answers
Savy
Student
Lewisville, North Carolina
1
Question
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How can I be sure I won't regret majoring in Creative Writing?
With the rise of AI use and the continuous messages that writing won't pay enough and isn't sustainable, it's easy to be discouraged from majoring in creative writing, even though I really love it.
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5 answers
Linda Reilly
healthcare marketing writer, creative director
5
Answers
Ambler, Pennsylvania
Updated
Linda’s Answer
Hi Savy! Wong's answer really hits upon all the important points. I especially like that Wong mentioned that your college major doesn't decide your entire life. Even if, in the future, your work doesn't focus on creative writing, you may always identify yourself as a writer or artist. That is true of many creative individuals who have to supplement their artistic endeavors with other career choices that offer reliable salaries. Being an artist is not an easy path, but as Tom and Wong said, you will never regret pursuing what you are passionate about. By majoring in creative writing or at least including it in the mix of your studies and endeavors, you won't ever have to wonder, 'What if I had stuck with my creative writing...? Would I have been more fulfilled?' I know from my own career as a writer that the business world offers many opportunities to put those talents to work and on display. What's more, I have a community of coworkers and friends whose creativity, imagination, and vision have been a lifelong source of comfort and inspiration. One last thing: Ask yourself every once and a while, 'Do I need this?' Meaning, do you need to write stories/poems because the characters, themes, plots, and ideas in your head keep popping up, and you can't wait to get back to them? Or does it feel like a chore? Artistic expression is hard work, and you might sweat over each word at times, but ultimately, it shouldn't feel like drudgery. Much good luck on your path!
Gustavo Asman
I work as Creative Director at a strategy and communications firm that works with nonprofits
11
Answers
Seattle, Washington
Updated
Gustavo’s Answer
My take is a bit different, and do think being realistic there is a chance you might regret it. Tough but real imo, especially considering this is 2025 and things may not get much better...
Of course this is just one opinion, but I will share mine:
-I see colleagues and former colleagues left and right, in the US, Spain, Australia, Perú, Argentina, struggling to find opportunities. The younger they are the worst it gets. I am talking communications in general, but I do think this affects many aspects of creativity, writing being one of them.
-I see a lot of young folks trying to get their first chance at a wide range of firms... without much success doing so. Why? They have a degree but not experience, therefore they cannot jump a few positions and start/apply to a mid-level role... they can only start, try internships, etc. Of course this is not everywhere, but in a ton of places interns and entry level positions are being replaced with AI, don't believe me... google it and read any articles you run into. I don't think it is impossible, but I do think it got way, way, way harder. And I wouldn't be genuine if I did not mention what I see around me more often than not
-Having said all this, it all depends on what you plan to do with that creative writing degree or education. I do agree as some folks mention above that beyond the degree or opportunities (lack thereof) there is also what you learn itself, and yes, some of that could help in many other aspects, thinking, etc in your future
I just think that the context is different than even a decade ago or less, so my advice would be focus with one eye on what you plan to study, but keep the other eye on what is coming, a few plays ahead, and what that may lead into
Best of luck
Of course this is just one opinion, but I will share mine:
-I see colleagues and former colleagues left and right, in the US, Spain, Australia, Perú, Argentina, struggling to find opportunities. The younger they are the worst it gets. I am talking communications in general, but I do think this affects many aspects of creativity, writing being one of them.
-I see a lot of young folks trying to get their first chance at a wide range of firms... without much success doing so. Why? They have a degree but not experience, therefore they cannot jump a few positions and start/apply to a mid-level role... they can only start, try internships, etc. Of course this is not everywhere, but in a ton of places interns and entry level positions are being replaced with AI, don't believe me... google it and read any articles you run into. I don't think it is impossible, but I do think it got way, way, way harder. And I wouldn't be genuine if I did not mention what I see around me more often than not
-Having said all this, it all depends on what you plan to do with that creative writing degree or education. I do agree as some folks mention above that beyond the degree or opportunities (lack thereof) there is also what you learn itself, and yes, some of that could help in many other aspects, thinking, etc in your future
I just think that the context is different than even a decade ago or less, so my advice would be focus with one eye on what you plan to study, but keep the other eye on what is coming, a few plays ahead, and what that may lead into
Best of luck
Wong Loke Yuen
Head of Programme cum Senior Lecturer
645
Answers
Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
Updated
Wong’s Answer
Hi Savy. A Creative Writing major teaches skills that are useful in many different careers. You learn how to communicate clearly, think in creative ways, understand stories, and express ideas so people can connect with them. These skills are needed in jobs like marketing, publishing, teaching, editing, social media, and more. Writing is still important today, AI can help with basic tasks but it can't fully replace human imagination, emotion, or personal experiences.
You also don't have to depend only on writing. Many students mix their creative writing classes with other subjects to build more skills. You can take electives in areas like digital media, business, journalism, etc. You could also learn editing, storytelling for social media, or content creation. Having more than one skill set makes you more flexible and gives you more job options later.
It's also important to remember that your major does not decide your whole life. People change careers, learn new skills, and grow over time. If you choose something you love, you're more likely to stick with it, improve, and create opportunities for yourself.
You also don't have to depend only on writing. Many students mix their creative writing classes with other subjects to build more skills. You can take electives in areas like digital media, business, journalism, etc. You could also learn editing, storytelling for social media, or content creation. Having more than one skill set makes you more flexible and gives you more job options later.
It's also important to remember that your major does not decide your whole life. People change careers, learn new skills, and grow over time. If you choose something you love, you're more likely to stick with it, improve, and create opportunities for yourself.
Tom Foster
Freelance Writer with a lot of life experience
70
Answers
Forest Grove, Oregon
Updated
Tom’s Answer
If you really love it then you'll find a way to make it work. I know that sounds vague and probably isn't the answer you wanted. But if you're dedicated to your craft and want to explore how far you can go with it, then don't worry too much about AI. If you've ever read an AI-generated book then you'll know that AI can't replace human authors. Keep pushing forward and do what you love.
Louise Cooper
Copywriter
25
Answers
Orlando, Florida
Updated
Louise’s Answer
I knew I wanted to write creatively from an early age and am currently a senior copywriter at Universal Orlando Resort, meaning I write scripts for commercials and radio ads, headlines and descriptions for digital and traditional media, etc. promoting the theme parks. A creative writing degree is a great path towards a career in copywriting. I'd see what copywriting internships are available in your area to see if you like it.
I've been asked a lot whether I'm worried AI will replace my job. AI can be helpful in summarizing large swaths of data, describing more technical/factual things, and is useful for creative prompts, but it doesn't replace good writing skills. Consumers are savvy and know when something doesn't sound authentic or reads oddly.
I've been asked a lot whether I'm worried AI will replace my job. AI can be helpful in summarizing large swaths of data, describing more technical/factual things, and is useful for creative prompts, but it doesn't replace good writing skills. Consumers are savvy and know when something doesn't sound authentic or reads oddly.