If you are interested in going into a career as an author, what courses would you take in high school and college?
(besides English, of course)
I know what career I want to have, and I am concerned about any and all subjects I should take. For example, would you suggest taking more languages in addition to English and French like Spanish or Latin? Anything else?
Thanks,
brie
Brie, I have found that the class in Latin I took in HS was invaluable. First it helped me enormously in picking up Latin based foreign languages. Second,it gave a wonderful hand-up in knowing what a word means without having to look it up... this particularly applies to anything having to do with science. Third, Latin helped with sentence construction. PLUS, I love literature and history so of course a secondary asset was the tie there.
I am planning on becoming a creative writing teacher and a published poet. I DEFINATELY recommend taking as many creative writing classes as possible. Not only are they fun, if you have the right teacher/proffessor, but they help you become a much better writer.
Take all of the above classes mentioned -- plus classes in your interests. Brie -- you didn't say what kind of author you want to be. But if you want to write about history, take history. If you want to write about ecology, take science classes.
I learned from my husband, who published nine non-fiction books, that the most important thing an author to do is to write, write, write -- and then write some more.
If you're interested in a career as an author, there are a variety of courses you can take in high school and college to help develop your skills and knowledge.
In addition to English courses, which are obviously important for improving your understanding of literature, grammar, and writing techniques, here are some other courses you may consider:
1. Foreign Languages: While it's not necessary to learn multiple languages, having a strong grasp of languages beyond English can broaden your understanding of different cultures, literature, and enhance your creativity. Spanish and Latin can be particularly beneficial, as they have influenced many other languages.
2. Creative Writing: Taking courses specifically dedicated to creative writing can help you develop your storytelling abilities, improve your writing style, and receive feedback from experienced writers or professors. These classes often allow you to explore various genres and forms of creative writing.
3. Literature: Courses in literature, both in your native language and in other languages, can expose you to different writing styles, themes, and narratives. This can enhance your understanding of storytelling and provide inspiration for your own work.
4. History or Social Sciences: Depending on your interests, taking classes in these subjects can help you build a strong foundation of knowledge about different time periods, cultures, and societies. This understanding can greatly inform your writing and enrich your narratives, particularly if you plan to write historical fiction or explore certain themes.
5. Science or other specialized fields: If you intend to write in specific genres or about certain topics like science fiction, fantasy, or technical writing, taking relevant science or specialized courses can provide you with the necessary background knowledge to make your writing more authentic and accurate.
Ultimately, it's important to remember that being a successful author also requires extensive practice and dedication. Writing consistently and honing your craft is crucial. Additionally, seeking out writing workshops, conferences, and joining writing groups can provide valuable feedback, support, and networking opportunities. Good luck in pursuing your writing career!