Ruben Said:

What do I need to start a career as a professional writer?

We Answered:

I don't think the arts major is the real problem. I am also not sure that another college course is the answer. The bottom line is an editor will judge you on your work, not your degree.

I have read your stuff and frankly speaking I don't think you are ready to earn your living as a writer. That is not to say you don't have what is needed, just that it is undeveloped. You need to build some chops.

It seems to me that if you want to be a writer, you need to be where people are writing for a living. Newspapers and magazines might be a good choice. I know you don't want a minimum wage job, but there are minimum wage jobs and minimum wage jobs. Have a look at the jobs on offer and try to work out which of them will offer you a spring board to something closer to what you really want to do. If folks see you are interested, and willing to work you will be amazed at how they can help you.

And what is to lose? If you don't make it as a writer, at least you will be among others who love writing as much as yourself and you may well find a niche that best suits your talents. It doesn't mean you have to stop writing.

I wish you the best of luck with it, and hope to be reading a book with your name on it someday.

Jessie Said:

Was wondering which one of those are wrong?

We Answered:

Your question should have read, 'I was wondering which one of these sentences is wrong.

'One is the subject of the subordinate clause, not 'those'.

#1,2,4 are correct.

In #3, the verb tense is wrong. The past tense of the verb 'to begin' is 'began'. 'Begun' is the past participle and uses some form of the auxiliary verb 'to have' when used in the past perfect tense. In your sentence, it would have been correct to say, " She had begun her professional writing career in 1976.'

Cassandra Said:

I am interested in a professional writing career?

We Answered:

I've notice lately that my local newspaper has been advertising for freelance writers. Why not start at your local newspaper to build your resume? I believe that you would send in a sample article and they would decide if you would meet their requirements.

Also, if you have a good article why not send them to magazines and see if they get picked up. Just be ambitious and don't get deterred when and if you get a negative response -- Don't give up on your dreams!!!

Good luck!

Daniel Said:

Careers in Professional Writing?

We Answered:

I suggest that you take an aptitude test. An aptitude test assesses your skills and your interests and matches you to the careers that are right for you. A high school or college adviser can recommend a good one.

Velma Said:

Is a Professional Writing major with a biology minor a good combo?

We Answered:

I'd say it's a good combination. I'd check with someone at your school to see what possible job opportunities are with a biology minor. If you are interested in research, there is probably a lot of work you could do relating to biology and research.