literally. People say “what are youu gonna do with a creative writing major?” when there are so many options. I can go into law or teaching, computer programing, i can work in an office, in a companies writing team, I can be an author, editor, publisher. There is sooo much you can do. Knowing how to read and write is a very desired skill. You can go in manyy different direcitons where as something like fashion or fine art are kind of one lane courses.
Okay, so when I did my undergrad degree and I took a fiction workshop, there was a student in the class that INSISTED he submit all of his work in PDFs instead of word docs because he was CONVINCED one of us would steal his work. When the professor explained that he wanted our submissions in docs so that he could make edits using the comments and edit tracking, this guy remained firm that he needed to submit in PDFs. I remember looking around the one table we all sat at and seeing variations of "dude, no one in this room is going to steal your work" written on everyone's faces.
@@bageba8 Keep in mind she said "per year," which is average tuition for most American public state schools. Add it all up, and she spent $20K which is average student loan debt in the US.
if you go to a public university your tuition will be around that amount. i go to a public university and pay around 3k every semester for 15 credit hours. expensive private schools are overrated :-)
My university tuition (I am studying psychology) doesn’t cost anything. Well I have to pay about 300€ per semester, but that’s not for the tuition, it’s mostly for a student ticket, that gives me free public transportation. And for the students whose parents don’t have the money to pay for their kids to move away to university, most of them can get a loan from the state, that they don’t have to pay back fully. I live in Germany and the system isn’t perfect, but when I hear about the exorbitant amount people pay overseas for education, I am very glad.
As someone who was doing a biology degree and pivoted to English/creative writing it’s so funny to me that people will say “what are you gonna do with that??” Like what was I gonna do with a bio degree?? Haha
Lol I was the opposite, almost went from writing to bio and realized bio is much more useless but creative writing offers a variety of fields for me. Law school if I choose, PR, editing, actually writing if I’d like to, a few others I’m too tired to think about. I couldn’t let it go after that
@@Raikeran She can work in clinics, hospitals, be a medical researcher, continue studying and be a doctor, so on a so forth. Creative writing is just a shit degree per se. Good thing she has bio in her background. Obviously you're just a coping idiot lol. Might as well throw your tuition fee down the drain.
The first question when someone ( an officer whom i need signature for my Uni documents etc) find out I'm taking Degree in Creative Writing was "what future do you think you'll have with this kind of degree " with a downgrading tone in his voice.. I just answered " you're not a part of it (My future) so i don't want to answer that question " ( after i taken his signature of course, and sashay away. Rude... But I'm happy that i did it.
Oh man, got this question before I dropped out (some dumb choices). Gave him the "writer" answer and was basically dismissed. After thinking about it. The best thing to do is either your answer or give them so many answers they can't dismiss it. Like so: "I want to be a writer, but while I'm working on that I plan to apply myself as a copywriter, unless of course I can find better paying work doing SEO, being a freelance editor, doing public relations, helping college students write essays and dissertations. I'm already doing some ghost writing, and if that picks up then maybe I'll do that full time."
I almost had a BA in creative writing but I quit because the only classes I had left were math & history which are two of my worst subjects & I'd ran out of financial aid. But I didn't really learn anything that I didn't already know, except how to properly give writing critiques. (which really makes me want to be a Developmental Editor) So for me it was a rather disheartening experience when you've got a teacher praising your work in this 3rd level critique class & people who can barely form proper sentences are also critiquing the exact same piece & ripping it to shreds. However, I did meet some of my best friends & my best writing friends in that program. So that alone was worth it.
I've just my English Literature and Creative Writing course and I'm loving it so far! My friend and I already notice a big difference in my writing (my grammar has always been terrible and I have actually improved hahah! Also discovering new things that I love doing like script writing.
Concerning 13:10, be aware of what your English department's focus is (great hint is what books your professors are publishing). I started at University of Pittsburgh (because I knew they had an amazing English Department) and my first fiction writing class we were told "no fantasy or science fiction" on the first day. Transferred to CSU Northridge and there is a definite effort toward studying genre fiction. Big lesson for me on how finding the best department might not actually mean the best fit (not trying to plug anything. They're both great schools for different reasons).
Looking at what the professors publish is a great piece of advice for anyone unsure if their program will accommodate the style of writing they do! Thanks for sharing!
Aha I had one of those ‘what did you learn’ questions, and I feel like you answered it perfectly! When I compare it to my BSc, and how I became a better scientist for it through every aspect: all the experience I gained in the field and skills I built through practical work in labs, learning how to conduct research and use scientific literature, I can see what you gained from your writing degree. I think I always saw a writing degree as like,,, prose-focused or like you just walk out with beautiful writing and learn craft and technicality and you’re just gaining knowledge. I saw it as like being taught How to Write. But it’s more like learning how to be a writer - in the way that I learnt to be a scientist, I didn’t just learn science. Idk if this is useful for anyone thinking about a creative writing degree but it was the first time I’d seen it phrased this way! Thank you Shaelin!!
Someone probably already recommended this in the comments somewhere, but for people looking for genre fiction courses or advice (fantasy particularly) should check out Brandon Sanderson's university lectures that he posts all on youtube.
I've been writing since I was a kid and it's really my dream job, but I keep talking myself out of it. Mainly because it a more "impractical" major and it's hard to rationalize the amount of debt i'd be getting into to pursue it (I'm in the U.S). However, none of the more markable majors appeal to me. For instance I took a coding class at a community college and honestly enjoyed it and got a good grade, but I can't imagine spending most of my life doing it. Now I'm 23 with no degree and am pretty close to just saying "fuck it" and pursuing writing. That makes me anxious though so who knows. Anyways, I've watched this video twice (once when it first came out and now) and each time I get inspired to put aside my fear and give a writing degree a chance, so thank you for that. It's nice to have a realistic yet positive video to reference because I also consume a lot of content that is quite negative about the arts as a career and balance is good.
Honestly same for me. I honestly did like writing as a passion (I still do) but it's just that I've always been told how writing is not a career, more of a hobby. Eventually, it did stick with me my entire life and now that I am in college, I'm starting to think about getting into writing again (obviously I have to improve on and it will take a lot of time). I'm currently doing a different major but I just don't see myself in that major and more into writing because I do want to become a novelist or a scriptwriter even. And now that I am becoming interested in it again, I'm starting to become nervous and even feel guilty of thinking about it.
@@pleb1019 does your school offer a writing minor? That could be a good way to work on your writing without changing your whole major if you're not comfortable with that. I definitely understand the struggle though.
I was just going to do my masters in Creative Writing this year, but dropped out due to Covid19. And then had my doubts.This video really made it clear for me from a person who’s been there and done that. ✨Thanks so much for sharing all the information with such honesty. Congratulations!
I know quite a few people who had to differ their masters degrees because of Covid, it's so unfortunate. I hope you can still go back and have that experience if it's something you want to do!
*J high schooler with crippling depression has entered the chat* Lol, But it’s good you guys are planning for your future early, as I did, ie the reason I have all of this crippling depression 😂
@@chaaaargh i don't agree personally if you take into account that the world is constantly changing, however at 14 the prefrontal cortex isn't very developed so thinking far ahead can be difficult
@@katelynschierle2909 Which is why it helps to consider your characters as potentially available to both genders until you narrow something down, as opposed to immediately assuming heterosexual.
I am starting my Writing Degree next month and I am so excited! It is sad that my home country does not offer this option, but I am so glad that I got the opportunity to study abroad! this feels like a dream
Hi Julia, what's up? I am curious, where are you from? I am brazilian and after I read you name i just had a feeling that you were too! Also, how is the writing degree going?
I’m going back to school and getting my Master’s online. (My first day is Monday!) I was so close to getting it in Creative Writing but decided on Communications.:)
Shaelin, I was upset at not being able to pursue a high school education at an arts school, but I continued writing out of love and passion. I can earn an MFA in Creative Writing and specialize in fiction and poetry. You have a BA in Creative Writing and your first short stories were published when you were in college. The most important thing for me is to write from the heart and my experience can be sublime. I endeavor to learn as much about writing craft through workshops. I love you
I would like to thank you for making this video, and even having a whole channel dedicated to the art of writing. It's really made me more confident in choosing creative writing as my major, I definitely plan on using those tools, and getting published one day. Even on the most insecure and dry days, your videos give me slivers of confidence in my writing. I've been writing since I was a kid, it's all I know, and I've entertained other careers, but I've always became apathetic or indifferent towards them, but writing has been a place for me. Thank you.
I fear the largest barrier to success/affinity in/for higher education is doubt from within. I think answering these questions & moving the discussion forward is important. "Muad'Dib learned rapidly because his first training was in how to learn. And the first lesson of all was the basic trust that he could learn. It's shocking to find how many people do not believe they can learn, and how many more believe learning to be difficult. Muad'Dib knew that every experience carries its lesson."
Oh, gosh. This has boosted my confidence in taking the course. Thank you! So, so much! My parents are supportive of whatever I choose to do, so the issue was my confidence in taking it because there was no specific career path, and I wasn't too sure I would survive life after college, which made me anxious and more pressured because aside from how I will handle the four years, I also think of how much I will have to work to even pay for a bill. And this helped. You saying that taking it changed your view of the careers available for creative writing graduates made me feel motivated. I loved this video!
Congratulations. A bachelor's opens so many doors. Keep kicking ass. I also finished without debt. Took a lot longer than four years because I struggled financially. But ... graduating was critical to positioning my life positively today.
Congrats! Good luck with your academic career and writing journey! I'm starting a Literature and creative writing MA in two months and honestly, I'm terrified. I'm scared of all of the things you talk about here: working under pressure, being critiqued, my process not being suitable for learning writing academically. I've never studied writing academically before (my BA is a humanities degree). I also write mostly speculative fiction. I spoke with some people from the department and they said they accomadate speculative fiction. I really hope it's true. Thank you so much for this video, it's so comforting to know that a lot of people have the same fears that I have.
As part of my English Literature degree, I took some writing modules in my 3rd year. The Fiction course was run by a guy who was one of those lecturers who looked down upon genre fiction, whilst my Creative Writing dissertation tutor is incredibly open to genre. My CW dissertation is a small collection of science fiction short stories, and the scope is super flexible. My tutor is also a big sci fi fan, which also helped!
In regards to the last question: copyright 101 - you own your ideas the moment you put them on the page. But you can't confuse inspiration with the writing. If someone is inspired by your work then it's hard to prove copyright infringement/plagiarism. But if the majority of their plot is the same as your plot then you definitely have grounds for a copyright infringement suit. It's easier to prove these days when you started your work - all files have created tags!
I am actually ACE, and I think there should be more books about this issue. I think it's important to educate people on it because it's constantly being overlooked and unrecognized. Great video
Congratulations on your degree. I have been following you for a while but I'm not always the best at commenting, but that is a huge achievement and I'm really happy for you.
As someone who’s just about to graduate high school and go to college, it took me so long and so much thought before even considering creative writing. The problem is the fact that it’s so hard to find people who will help open the door for you, like example an illiterate can look at an artwork and appreciate its beauty, but there are people who know how to read and won’t really appreciate or acknowledge everything that comes with writing. I come from a friend group who are all artists, and because of that, while I did enjoy writing, I was mostly exposed to art. I did enjoy drawing and painting a lot, but when I imagined myself in the fine arts course, it was as if something was missing. It wasn’t until this pandemic that I had someone to express all my written passion to and vice versa, and I will forever be thankful for that friend.
I am getting ready to start a Literature degree this fall.. I could have done a Creative Writing degree, but the Lit degree still let's you do writing workshops, so I decided to go with that instead! I'm super excited!
@@ShaelinWrites Yes it is pretty awesome! The creative writing track didn't offer many pre-1885 lot classes. I can understand that as the style of writing has changed since then, but I wanted to have the opportunity to study earlier authors and their works more in depth. My university actually encourages Lit majors to take the writing workshops to "put your knowledge to the test." As well to provide deeper analysis to the creative writing majors. I already completed 2 years of college in a different major, but I know my heart belongs to books! I am ready for the change :) Edited because of typo.
Congratulations on your degree! Also, great video. I’m starting my first year of university this year, computer science major and creative writing minor.
This was a really good video! I also have a BA in Creative Writing, though mine was done with an online program. I would have preferred an in class setting, but between work and available programs, I had to go with the online program. I did enjoy it and I felt it was something I needed to do for myself. Your program definitely sounds more challenging than mine was, which I would have preferred. If it wasn't for school being expensive, I would love to still do more school.
Stem major here neuroscience and minor in physics and... I even though my grammar is very weak I just got the guts and took the bold decision to suck it up, improve, challenge myself and double major in creative writing cause writers are needed in all fields! ♥️
What you said about stigma with art degrees is 🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽 while writing degrees aren’t necessarily “career oriented” as western society instills undergrad degrees should be (although it’s difficult to get employed with any degree nowadays we love capitalism) it is interesting that they’re sometimes treated as being catchall “useless” even though I think this is hinging mostly on what you put into it (just like any other degree). I understand the interrogation of impracticality some juggle with (including myself sometimes!) and I find that’s what truly motivates me to really make something out of my education (a privilege not all have/can afford to risk!). I’m so grateful to study writing and am aware of the privilege that allows me to do so (familial support, funding, etc), and I can’t wait to see where it takes me! ❤️
I just got accepted into the CW MFA with Southern New Hampshire University and it is focused on genre fiction - contemporary, romance, YA, or speculative. We have to choose a track and produce a finished and edited novel for our thesis. Subreddits with posts of students from the program seem overwhelmingly positive. My two course first semester is under $4000 as an out-of-state, online student. Overall, since I want to write and teach (probably community college where students may need more encouragement to believe in themselves), this is a great fit and value for the U.S. Wish we had free higher ed though.
Fascinating video. I majored in Journalism with a double minor in English and Government & Politics. I wrote a lot, and the journalism background (including a long stint at the daily school newspaper) probably accounts for why I don’t outline my novels. Reporters don’t have time to outline against a deadline, so I got used to going from information (or, in fiction terms, idea) to story without outlining or rough drafts.
This is pretty accurate. I never had personal projects outside of my assignments, except for maybe poetry since those were sizable...but I felt more confident with tackling WIPs _after_ graduating cuz that's when everything really clicked. But yeah, it'll be different for eveyone. I've had writing friends who went onto get their MFAs and some who went into K-12 education.
I'm currently doing a degree in mathematics and literature. (I know, I know...). Still figuring things out as I go. I'm starting my second year in a couple of months, and I've learned quite a bit so far. I'm proficient at both maths and writing, and both subjects interest me a lot. I'm contemplating whether I should focus on the exact sciences path, probably going for something like coding or algorithms or statistics, or if I should pursue writing and try to actually publish the stories I write. (I write a lot, but I've only shown stuff to few friends and family). It's a tough decision I was hoping to make later when I learn more about both paths. Something I was considering lately is trying my luck in journalism. Perhaps applying for a job in editorials or investigative journalism or editing, wherever I'm accepted with my nonexistent accolades. What I'm mostly aiming for is experience in writing rather than money for the moment, so even a part time job in the midst of my degree could be nice. I dunno. I'm thinking about it. The 'rona isn't helping any of this for any of us...
Very helpful video. I'd love to see one about how to find writing groups and CPs for non-writing majors. Like which specific people or professors to ask for information in college, or university as it is called up north
I did a few writing courses but not a degree. I think it helped me improve writing just because 1) It forced me to write, and write outside my comfort zone. All writing is practice, so you can't go wrong writing something. 2) It taught me how to workshop and accept feedback, which was instrumental. It was difficult at first, but ultimately it helped me realize me work is NOT my worth, and improvement comes with feedback. 3) Having deadlines helped me write consistently. 4) It introduced me to other writers. I think writing courses can help condense your learning by having these resources and external feedback. People can certainly improve without them, and indeed it is unlikely I will ever finish any kind of degree. I paid for all my courses out of pocket while working part time and having cheap rent at home so they were worth the small expense to me.
I know this is reiterated a lot in the video, but I just wanted to emphasize here that what you can write in terms of genre, etc, really depends on the program! The program and professors at my university are completely open to any genre but, due to the classes being almost entirely workshop focused, all stories need to be between 2k-4K words unless it’s for a specific project/poetry class (of course). In my program, you’re also required to take not only fiction writing if that’s your specialty, but also either poetry or nonfiction, too. So, while you can write high fantasy or horror or whatever for fiction classes, you are required to take courses that aren’t what you’re specifically interested in. Most program heads and professors are really excited to share the objectives of their programs and give you more in depth information about the types of writing involved and what you’re able to do, so doing research is super important if your creative liberty is what’s stopping you from becoming a creative writing major/minor.
As someone who just got a B.Sc. in Biochemistry, I am dead inside. I have always thrived with a combination of science and arts so university was spiritually draining. Your journey from preparing to do a science degree and then choosing the writing one really resonated with me as a path I could've taken (I chose Biochem over a tenor saxophone performance degree). I hope that in the near future I might be able to pursue a different career in the arts because the scientific environment is not it for me. I'm glad my province has tuition fees that won't require me to sell a kidney to get a second degree
why do RUclipsrs always apologize for posting long videos? i don't know about anyone else but I always want more 😊 thanks for the advice !! congrats on graduating!
Congrats for getting your degree. And i want to ask can you talk about your first published stories? I'm new short story writer and will like to hear your beginning so i can learn from it.
Excellent point at 7.00 - doing a degree condenses the learning experience. I'd never had a single class of Creative Writing before starting a CW Masters. Learning by pure trial and error would have taken years more.
I'm a junior in high school and I would LOVE to do a degree in writing (even though English is my second language), but I'm super nervous and scared that I won't be good enough... When you started your degree would you say you and your peers were on the same level and did you sometimes feel like you or someone else wasn't good enough for the program?
I'd say there was a very wide range of skill levels at the start of my program! Some people actually had very little writing experience, and although most of those people didn't end up staying in the program, I think it's because they found passions elsewhere, rather than because they weren't good enough or anything like that.
Got my BFA in Creative Writing for Entertainment. Was it worth it? For me yes & no. No, in the sense they taught many, many things I already learned from how to books years ago. In fact, some of the "text books" I already owned. Yes, in the sense of peer reviews & forcing me to focus on writing.
Thank you for answering our questions, coming from highly discriminitive place all i want to write are "social issues" stories; e.g. I do wish to pursue a creative writing degree abroad, since the only existing one in my place, rejected the application with a racist remark 👏
I'm going into gr. 12 this year and I'm beginning to feel the stress about which programs I might apply to so thank you for the conveniently timed video lol. I have most definifely felt the pressure about studying STEM as opposed to writing or history which I'm most interested in so thanks for the extra motivation to do what I love!
This is a super common stress, but if it helps, it is *so* normal to change your major! Probably 75% of university students change their program in their first year or two. They make choosing your program into such a big deal in high school, and once you start uni you realize it's so easy and so normal to switch things up.
@@ShaelinWrites That's actually incredibly comforting to hear, it feels like I'm choosing the path I'll be on for the next four years and I just don't feel ready for that yet.
I love the video shaelin you a inspiraton to me as a young writer. well done getting a writing degree I have followed you from the beginning I'm proud of you. 😊 ( do you do writing updates still for the month? )
Thanks for supporting me from the start, you witnessed all my most awkward phases haha! I don't do writing updates much anymore because I vlog my writing process so it was getting a bit repetitive, but I might start doing them again at some point.
In Belgium you seriously pay only 1k per year, which is very low considering it's 5k in The Netherlands and basically in the UK it's the same as in the USA.
Shaelin, this may not be the correct place for a question but I’m not sure how to get hold of you. As a Canadian writer, do you use the Canadian spelling of words ... “our” words like honour, flavour, etc and also do you use Celsius and kms, metric system. Thank you
I use Canadian spellings. If the story is set in a country that uses the metric system, I use the metric system. If I were writing a story set in the US or had American characters, I would use Fahrenheit, though this rarely comes up in my work.
Are you an INFP/INFJ? Congrats on your degree btw... Writing is definitely not as bad as many think, especially when most art degrees have transferable skills like Critical Thinking, Cultural Studies, and elements of Psychology.
I keep trying to find contemporary fiction authors who are successful and don’t hold degrees. It’s been nearly impossible. It seems like the industry either demands it or there is such a stigma to not having a degree that authors are too shamed to enter the field without one.
Hello, I want to get a degree(or a certificate) in Creative Writing. Because of exchange rates, most schools are too expensive for my financial situation. I found one that was maybe possible with my budget but I have a bad feeling about the school. I sent an enquiry and they didn't answer my questions, not really. I sent another enquiry and I need to wait until after Christmas for them to respond. This school is in the UK. On the other hand, I found a university that gives Creative Writing certificate. The courses look interesting and it's more affordable. This one is in Canada. My parents don't want me to get the certificate but a BA looks to be a bit of a stretch also. I don't know what to do.
Chuck Palahniuk got kicked out by his own writing workshops. Not only once, but twice. I think the criticism in workshop environment is much tamer than those from the real world and it's necessary for any new writers to learn giving and taking criticism. But I will hope you won't get kicked out 'cause finding a new one is such a pain. It's a pain to you, a larger pain to your department. Imo, if you can afford a MFA in Creative Writing, go ahead. Even if you're just doing BFA, it's still a head start and 'comfortable' environment. I said 'comfortable', because you won't die from starvation if you have some low time and can't write something good. I mean, I would like to play the starving artist shits, but I'm too pussy to actually do it. Neil Gaiman supported himself by writing, and he have enough talent and head resources to improve his writing, SO self-teaching is clearly doable. You can do some side gig when you're in school. Like doing street poet, participating some awards/games, writing for other small projects. Just to have some test runs for your graduation. If you can balance it, of course. English is REALLY easy. And it is THE biggest language in entertainment business. You won't lack learning resources. And if you can write something interesting will English as your 2nd language? Why not just try? After all, it's yours or your parent's money you're spending for this kind of learning experience.
Hi! I start to write poems to heal my problems. Later on, I'm used to writing poems. Though I'm getting feedbacks to publish a book. Even it happens I'll be super happy. But I know I have to improve my English and I have to put hard work into it. Can I get your advice? Though I don't have any writing degrees. I'm just an HR professional and I completed my HR professional degree program recently.
The fact that there's so much stigma around art degrees, yet we consume art almost every single day of our lives
I think it's mostly because an arts degree in the states is a lot of money
literally. People say “what are youu gonna do with a creative writing major?” when there are so many options. I can go into law or teaching, computer programing, i can work in an office, in a companies writing team, I can be an author, editor, publisher. There is sooo much you can do. Knowing how to read and write is a very desired skill. You can go in manyy different direcitons where as something like fashion or fine art are kind of one lane courses.
Every. Single. Day.
Okay, so when I did my undergrad degree and I took a fiction workshop, there was a student in the class that INSISTED he submit all of his work in PDFs instead of word docs because he was CONVINCED one of us would steal his work. When the professor explained that he wanted our submissions in docs so that he could make edits using the comments and edit tracking, this guy remained firm that he needed to submit in PDFs. I remember looking around the one table we all sat at and seeing variations of "dude, no one in this room is going to steal your work" written on everyone's faces.
Lol, he must have felt it was that killer of a doc and didn’t want you guys to steal it.
Some people are extremely stubborn about that kind of stuff
Welcome to creative writing! lol
AHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHHAAH
I'm cracking up 🤣🤣🤣 HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAGA
He was King in disguise.
Shaelin:"My tuition was about $5k"
Me: *cries in American*
Right lmao, her entire four years of tuition was less than the student loans I left college with 😭
Her 4 years of tuition was less than a single year of my schooling...
@@bageba8 Keep in mind she said "per year," which is average tuition for most American public state schools. Add it all up, and she spent $20K which is average student loan debt in the US.
if you go to a public university your tuition will be around that amount. i go to a public university and pay around 3k every semester for 15 credit hours. expensive private schools are overrated :-)
My university tuition (I am studying psychology) doesn’t cost anything. Well I have to pay about 300€ per semester, but that’s not for the tuition, it’s mostly for a student ticket, that gives me free public transportation. And for the students whose parents don’t have the money to pay for their kids to move away to university, most of them can get a loan from the state, that they don’t have to pay back fully. I live in Germany and the system isn’t perfect, but when I hear about the exorbitant amount people pay overseas for education, I am very glad.
As someone who was doing a biology degree and pivoted to English/creative writing it’s so funny to me that people will say “what are you gonna do with that??” Like what was I gonna do with a bio degree?? Haha
Lol I was the opposite, almost went from writing to bio and realized bio is much more useless but creative writing offers a variety of fields for me. Law school if I choose, PR, editing, actually writing if I’d like to, a few others I’m too tired to think about. I couldn’t let it go after that
what _can_ you do with a bio degree?
@@Raikeran She can work in clinics, hospitals, be a medical researcher, continue studying and be a doctor, so on a so forth.
Creative writing is just a shit degree per se. Good thing she has bio in her background. Obviously you're just a coping idiot lol. Might as well throw your tuition fee down the drain.
@@chrisulfen8775 ur mad 😂😂😂
@@chrisulfen8775 Who- how spiteful and sad must you be to come and take out your issues on other people’s chosen degrees ?
The first question when someone ( an officer whom i need signature for my Uni documents etc) find out I'm taking Degree in Creative Writing was "what future do you think you'll have with this kind of degree " with a downgrading tone in his voice..
I just answered " you're not a part of it (My future) so i don't want to answer that question " ( after i taken his signature of course, and sashay away.
Rude... But I'm happy that i did it.
Good for you! I would have said the same thing😂
Oh man, got this question before I dropped out (some dumb choices). Gave him the "writer" answer and was basically dismissed. After thinking about it. The best thing to do is either your answer or give them so many answers they can't dismiss it. Like so:
"I want to be a writer, but while I'm working on that I plan to apply myself as a copywriter, unless of course I can find better paying work doing SEO, being a freelance editor, doing public relations, helping college students write essays and dissertations. I'm already doing some ghost writing, and if that picks up then maybe I'll do that full time."
I think a little part of me died when you said $5000 a year 😶 America could never ever ever
Katie Farrell 😩😩 so jealous
Kiki in CowTown sorry I sound like I’m tryna brag so much lol it’s just cause my family is broke af lmao
$51,000 is the total cost for a BA in Creative Writing at my college...
thank goodness for scholarships and grants
The school I go to in the US is 8,000 a year for instate students so kind of close to 5,000
I almost had a BA in creative writing but I quit because the only classes I had left were math & history which are two of my worst subjects & I'd ran out of financial aid. But I didn't really learn anything that I didn't already know, except how to properly give writing critiques. (which really makes me want to be a Developmental Editor) So for me it was a rather disheartening experience when you've got a teacher praising your work in this 3rd level critique class & people who can barely form proper sentences are also critiquing the exact same piece & ripping it to shreds. However, I did meet some of my best friends & my best writing friends in that program. So that alone was worth it.
I've just my English Literature and Creative Writing course and I'm loving it so far! My friend and I already notice a big difference in my writing (my grammar has always been terrible and I have actually improved hahah! Also discovering new things that I love doing like script writing.
Concerning 13:10, be aware of what your English department's focus is (great hint is what books your professors are publishing). I started at University of Pittsburgh (because I knew they had an amazing English Department) and my first fiction writing class we were told "no fantasy or science fiction" on the first day. Transferred to CSU Northridge and there is a definite effort toward studying genre fiction. Big lesson for me on how finding the best department might not actually mean the best fit (not trying to plug anything. They're both great schools for different reasons).
Looking at what the professors publish is a great piece of advice for anyone unsure if their program will accommodate the style of writing they do! Thanks for sharing!
CONGRATULATIONS SHAELIN, May your creative reservoir always be in the path of the Deluge 🌊🌊🌊!
Aha I had one of those ‘what did you learn’ questions, and I feel like you answered it perfectly! When I compare it to my BSc, and how I became a better scientist for it through every aspect: all the experience I gained in the field and skills I built through practical work in labs, learning how to conduct research and use scientific literature, I can see what you gained from your writing degree. I think I always saw a writing degree as like,,, prose-focused or like you just walk out with beautiful writing and learn craft and technicality and you’re just gaining knowledge. I saw it as like being taught How to Write. But it’s more like learning how to be a writer - in the way that I learnt to be a scientist, I didn’t just learn science. Idk if this is useful for anyone thinking about a creative writing degree but it was the first time I’d seen it phrased this way! Thank you Shaelin!!
her voice is so soft its soothing.
Someone probably already recommended this in the comments somewhere, but for people looking for genre fiction courses or advice (fantasy particularly) should check out Brandon Sanderson's university lectures that he posts all on youtube.
I've been writing since I was a kid and it's really my dream job, but I keep talking myself out of it. Mainly because it a more "impractical" major and it's hard to rationalize the amount of debt i'd be getting into to pursue it (I'm in the U.S). However, none of the more markable majors appeal to me. For instance I took a coding class at a community college and honestly enjoyed it and got a good grade, but I can't imagine spending most of my life doing it. Now I'm 23 with no degree and am pretty close to just saying "fuck it" and pursuing writing. That makes me anxious though so who knows. Anyways, I've watched this video twice (once when it first came out and now) and each time I get inspired to put aside my fear and give a writing degree a chance, so thank you for that. It's nice to have a realistic yet positive video to reference because I also consume a lot of content that is quite negative about the arts as a career and balance is good.
Honestly same for me. I honestly did like writing as a passion (I still do) but it's just that I've always been told how writing is not a career, more of a hobby. Eventually, it did stick with me my entire life and now that I am in college, I'm starting to think about getting into writing again (obviously I have to improve on and it will take a lot of time). I'm currently doing a different major but I just don't see myself in that major and more into writing because I do want to become a novelist or a scriptwriter even. And now that I am becoming interested in it again, I'm starting to become nervous and even feel guilty of thinking about it.
@@pleb1019 does your school offer a writing minor? That could be a good way to work on your writing without changing your whole major if you're not comfortable with that. I definitely understand the struggle though.
I was just going to do my masters in Creative Writing this year, but dropped out due to Covid19. And then had my doubts.This video really made it clear for me from a person who’s been there and done that.
✨Thanks so much for sharing all the information with such honesty. Congratulations!
I know quite a few people who had to differ their masters degrees because of Covid, it's so unfortunate. I hope you can still go back and have that experience if it's something you want to do!
this is honestly really helpful. I'm fourteen so I probably shouldn't be worrying about it but it'll help for when I do have to decide.
I'm looking into it too I'm 14 but I'm worried about getting money and a job from that degree
*J high schooler with crippling depression has entered the chat*
Lol,
But it’s good you guys are planning for your future early, as I did, ie the reason I have all of this crippling depression 😂
As a 23 yo I would tell you that time flies faster than you could expect so there's nothing wrong with looking ahead in my opinion.
@@majlordag1889 true but, there's such a thing as looking too far into the future...
@@chaaaargh i don't agree personally if you take into account that the world is constantly changing, however at 14 the prefrontal cortex isn't very developed so thinking far ahead can be difficult
People ask why the character needs to be asexual, but they also don't need to be straight!
Can you give me a time stamp for where she talks about it?
@@kinrateia around 33:00
Best thing to do is to consider every character "bisexual until further notice".
@@ginge641 I think it's best to not assume at all, there shouldn't be any default
@@katelynschierle2909 Which is why it helps to consider your characters as potentially available to both genders until you narrow something down, as opposed to immediately assuming heterosexual.
You should make a video on the processes you use to interpret a given story.
I am starting my Writing Degree next month and I am so excited! It is sad that my home country does not offer this option, but I am so glad that I got the opportunity to study abroad! this feels like a dream
Hi Julia, what's up? I am curious, where are you from? I am brazilian and after I read you name i just had a feeling that you were too! Also, how is the writing degree going?
I’m going back to school and getting my Master’s online. (My first day is Monday!) I was so close to getting it in Creative Writing but decided on Communications.:)
no cap, heard the tuition rates and was pissed bc the college I want to go to in America is 28k a year
@Jdaello yeah I want to go to private school (Howard)
The education system of USA is shit.
Shaelin, I was upset at not being able to pursue a high school education at an arts school, but I continued writing out of love and passion. I can earn an MFA in Creative Writing and specialize in fiction and poetry. You have a BA in Creative Writing and your first short stories were published when you were in college. The most important thing for me is to write from the heart and my experience can be sublime. I endeavor to learn as much about writing craft through workshops. I love you
Omg one of my favorite writing channels talking about a major I'm considering?? I'm living for it
I would like to thank you for making this video, and even having a whole channel dedicated to the art of writing. It's really made me more confident in choosing creative writing as my major, I definitely plan on using those tools, and getting published one day. Even on the most insecure and dry days, your videos give me slivers of confidence in my writing. I've been writing since I was a kid, it's all I know, and I've entertained other careers, but I've always became apathetic or indifferent towards them, but writing has been a place for me. Thank you.
For me it really took a toll on my mental health and it is not as focused on the craft as I thought it would be.
I fear the largest barrier to success/affinity in/for higher education is doubt from within. I think answering these questions & moving the discussion forward is important.
"Muad'Dib learned rapidly because his first training was in how to learn. And the first lesson of all was the basic trust that he could learn. It's shocking to find how many people do not believe they can learn, and how many more believe learning to be difficult. Muad'Dib knew that every experience carries its lesson."
Ah, a man of culture.
Oh, gosh. This has boosted my confidence in taking the course. Thank you! So, so much! My parents are supportive of whatever I choose to do, so the issue was my confidence in taking it because there was no specific career path, and I wasn't too sure I would survive life after college, which made me anxious and more pressured because aside from how I will handle the four years, I also think of how much I will have to work to even pay for a bill. And this helped. You saying that taking it changed your view of the careers available for creative writing graduates made me feel motivated. I loved this video!
You graduating?
Congratulations. A bachelor's opens so many doors. Keep kicking ass.
I also finished without debt. Took a lot longer than four years because I struggled financially. But ... graduating was critical to positioning my life positively today.
Congrats! Good luck with your academic career and writing journey!
I'm starting a Literature and creative writing MA in two months and honestly, I'm terrified. I'm scared of all of the things you talk about here: working under pressure, being critiqued, my process not being suitable for learning writing academically. I've never studied writing academically before (my BA is a humanities degree). I also write mostly speculative fiction. I spoke with some people from the department and they said they accomadate speculative fiction. I really hope it's true.
Thank you so much for this video, it's so comforting to know that a lot of people have the same fears that I have.
As part of my English Literature degree, I took some writing modules in my 3rd year. The Fiction course was run by a guy who was one of those lecturers who looked down upon genre fiction, whilst my Creative Writing dissertation tutor is incredibly open to genre. My CW dissertation is a small collection of science fiction short stories, and the scope is super flexible. My tutor is also a big sci fi fan, which also helped!
In regards to the last question: copyright 101 - you own your ideas the moment you put them on the page. But you can't confuse inspiration with the writing. If someone is inspired by your work then it's hard to prove copyright infringement/plagiarism. But if the majority of their plot is the same as your plot then you definitely have grounds for a copyright infringement suit. It's easier to prove these days when you started your work - all files have created tags!
I’m in my car with my family broken down at a petrol station, so this came at just the right time!😂 By the way, I love your earrings!
This video was incredibly interesting yet simultaneously informative. I thoroughly enjoy watching videos like these. 😊
I am actually ACE, and I think there should be more books about this issue. I think it's important to educate people on it because it's constantly being overlooked and unrecognized. Great video
100000% agree! I'm working on two books with ace main characters since we're so often overlooked!
Congratulations on your degree. I have been following you for a while but I'm not always the best at commenting, but that is a huge achievement and I'm really happy for you.
As someone who’s just about to graduate high school and go to college, it took me so long and so much thought before even considering creative writing.
The problem is the fact that it’s so hard to find people who will help open the door for you, like example an illiterate can look at an artwork and appreciate its beauty, but there are people who know how to read and won’t really appreciate or acknowledge everything that comes with writing.
I come from a friend group who are all artists, and because of that, while I did enjoy writing, I was mostly exposed to art.
I did enjoy drawing and painting a lot, but when I imagined myself in the fine arts course, it was as if something was missing.
It wasn’t until this pandemic that I had someone to express all my written passion to and vice versa, and I will forever be thankful for that friend.
I am getting ready to start a Literature degree this fall.. I could have done a Creative Writing degree, but the Lit degree still let's you do writing workshops, so I decided to go with that instead! I'm super excited!
A lit degree where you still get to do workshops sounds awesome!
@@ShaelinWrites Yes it is pretty awesome! The creative writing track didn't offer many pre-1885 lot classes. I can understand that as the style of writing has changed since then, but I wanted to have the opportunity to study earlier authors and their works more in depth.
My university actually encourages Lit majors to take the writing workshops to "put your knowledge to the test." As well to provide deeper analysis to the creative writing majors.
I already completed 2 years of college in a different major, but I know my heart belongs to books! I am ready for the change :)
Edited because of typo.
Congratulations on your degree! Also, great video. I’m starting my first year of university this year, computer science major and creative writing minor.
Thank you so much for discussing these topics! It’s really helped me in my decision to return to school.
This was a really good video! I also have a BA in Creative Writing, though mine was done with an online program. I would have preferred an in class setting, but between work and available programs, I had to go with the online program. I did enjoy it and I felt it was something I needed to do for myself. Your program definitely sounds more challenging than mine was, which I would have preferred. If it wasn't for school being expensive, I would love to still do more school.
Stem major here neuroscience and minor in physics and... I even though my grammar is very weak I just got the guts and took the bold decision to suck it up, improve, challenge myself and double major in creative writing cause writers are needed in all fields! ♥️
What you said about stigma with art degrees is 🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽 while writing degrees aren’t necessarily “career oriented” as western society instills undergrad degrees should be (although it’s difficult to get employed with any degree nowadays we love capitalism) it is interesting that they’re sometimes treated as being catchall “useless” even though I think this is hinging mostly on what you put into it (just like any other degree). I understand the interrogation of impracticality some juggle with (including myself sometimes!) and I find that’s what truly motivates me to really make something out of my education (a privilege not all have/can afford to risk!). I’m so grateful to study writing and am aware of the privilege that allows me to do so (familial support, funding, etc), and I can’t wait to see where it takes me! ❤️
Rachel here with another god tier take I see!
three years after this video was posted, I now am beginning my own MA creative writing in the coming month.
I just got accepted into the CW MFA with Southern New Hampshire University and it is focused on genre fiction - contemporary, romance, YA, or speculative. We have to choose a track and produce a finished and edited novel for our thesis. Subreddits with posts of students from the program seem overwhelmingly positive. My two course first semester is under $4000 as an out-of-state, online student. Overall, since I want to write and teach (probably community college where students may need more encouragement to believe in themselves), this is a great fit and value for the U.S. Wish we had free higher ed though.
Fascinating video. I majored in Journalism with a double minor in English and Government & Politics. I wrote a lot, and the journalism background (including a long stint at the daily school newspaper) probably accounts for why I don’t outline my novels. Reporters don’t have time to outline against a deadline, so I got used to going from information (or, in fiction terms, idea) to story without outlining or rough drafts.
Just to let you know that i use your time stamps, all the time, please keep them up
this and a bunch of your other videos I just watched have been incredibly helpful! thank you so much for sharing all of this :)
Thanks so much for sharing all of this! Congrats to you for finishing your degree program!
This is pretty accurate. I never had personal projects outside of my assignments, except for maybe poetry since those were sizable...but I felt more confident with tackling WIPs _after_ graduating cuz that's when everything really clicked. But yeah, it'll be different for eveyone. I've had writing friends who went onto get their MFAs and some who went into K-12 education.
I love hearing you talk. Loved this vid
Been enjoying your vids, thanks for all the information!
I'm currently doing a degree in mathematics and literature. (I know, I know...). Still figuring things out as I go. I'm starting my second year in a couple of months, and I've learned quite a bit so far.
I'm proficient at both maths and writing, and both subjects interest me a lot. I'm contemplating whether I should focus on the exact sciences path, probably going for something like coding or algorithms or statistics, or if I should pursue writing and try to actually publish the stories I write. (I write a lot, but I've only shown stuff to few friends and family). It's a tough decision I was hoping to make later when I learn more about both paths.
Something I was considering lately is trying my luck in journalism. Perhaps applying for a job in editorials or investigative journalism or editing, wherever I'm accepted with my nonexistent accolades. What I'm mostly aiming for is experience in writing rather than money for the moment, so even a part time job in the midst of my degree could be nice. I dunno. I'm thinking about it. The 'rona isn't helping any of this for any of us...
Very helpful video. I'd love to see one about how to find writing groups and CPs for non-writing majors. Like which specific people or professors to ask for information in college, or university as it is called up north
I'd see if your school has either a writing club, or if the writing/english department has a student union!
@ShaelinWrites idk student unions were even a thing. Thank you! I'll look into those once I start school later this year
THIS IS SO HELPFUL, THANK YOU SO MUCH
Congratulations! Good luck on the next part of your journey!
I did a few writing courses but not a degree. I think it helped me improve writing just because 1) It forced me to write, and write outside my comfort zone. All writing is practice, so you can't go wrong writing something. 2) It taught me how to workshop and accept feedback, which was instrumental. It was difficult at first, but ultimately it helped me realize me work is NOT my worth, and improvement comes with feedback. 3) Having deadlines helped me write consistently. 4) It introduced me to other writers.
I think writing courses can help condense your learning by having these resources and external feedback. People can certainly improve without them, and indeed it is unlikely I will ever finish any kind of degree. I paid for all my courses out of pocket while working part time and having cheap rent at home so they were worth the small expense to me.
clear explanations! thanks Shaelin... i suppose your novel is quite fantastic!
I know this is reiterated a lot in the video, but I just wanted to emphasize here that what you can write in terms of genre, etc, really depends on the program! The program and professors at my university are completely open to any genre but, due to the classes being almost entirely workshop focused, all stories need to be between 2k-4K words unless it’s for a specific project/poetry class (of course). In my program, you’re also required to take not only fiction writing if that’s your specialty, but also either poetry or nonfiction, too. So, while you can write high fantasy or horror or whatever for fiction classes, you are required to take courses that aren’t what you’re specifically interested in. Most program heads and professors are really excited to share the objectives of their programs and give you more in depth information about the types of writing involved and what you’re able to do, so doing research is super important if your creative liberty is what’s stopping you from becoming a creative writing major/minor.
Unfortunately my uni doesn't offer creative writing degrees, so I'm doing English with an emphasis on creative writing. Thanks for this video.
As someone who just got a B.Sc. in Biochemistry, I am dead inside. I have always thrived with a combination of science and arts so university was spiritually draining. Your journey from preparing to do a science degree and then choosing the writing one really resonated with me as a path I could've taken (I chose Biochem over a tenor saxophone performance degree). I hope that in the near future I might be able to pursue a different career in the arts because the scientific environment is not it for me. I'm glad my province has tuition fees that won't require me to sell a kidney to get a second degree
why do RUclipsrs always apologize for posting long videos? i don't know about anyone else but I always want more 😊 thanks for the advice !! congrats on graduating!
Congrats for getting your degree.
And i want to ask can you talk about your first published stories?
I'm new short story writer and will like to hear your beginning so i can learn from it.
Excellent point at 7.00 - doing a degree condenses the learning experience. I'd never had a single class of Creative Writing before starting a CW Masters. Learning by pure trial and error would have taken years more.
Shoutout to Shaelin for being awesome ace rep in the world 💜
Thank you for this video. Very helpful.
Omg im so happy I found this channel 😭😭20 secs in nd im subbing
16:02 I'm pretty sure journalism is the #1 most dropped degree... Don't take journalism
Take it just dont drop it
Your hair is adorable 🥰
So nice to be a FT student :) what a blessing
Wow congrats on your graduating
It’s so sad that people really don’t understand art degrees. I remember my dad telling me to get a degree in something “useful.” 🙄
This was excellent! Thank you.
Very interesting video. Great insights into a writing degree.
Great video as always!
Finishing up my writing degree this year. It was basically like a three subject arts degree
Thanks Shaelin, I recently started this major at SNHU
I'm a junior in high school and I would LOVE to do a degree in writing (even though English is my second language), but I'm super nervous and scared that I won't be good enough... When you started your degree would you say you and your peers were on the same level and did you sometimes feel like you or someone else wasn't good enough for the program?
I'd say there was a very wide range of skill levels at the start of my program! Some people actually had very little writing experience, and although most of those people didn't end up staying in the program, I think it's because they found passions elsewhere, rather than because they weren't good enough or anything like that.
Very nicely done, Shaelin. Almost fell in love
Got my BFA in Creative Writing for Entertainment. Was it worth it? For me yes & no.
No, in the sense they taught many, many things I already learned from how to books years ago. In fact, some of the "text books" I already owned.
Yes, in the sense of peer reviews & forcing me to focus on writing.
I had a scholarship for fullsails university but they charge me extra for campus and refuse the loans to avoid debt.
Congratulations!
Shaelin I could do with some writing tips as I like writing story
Thank you for answering our questions, coming from highly discriminitive place all i want to write are "social issues" stories; e.g. I do wish to pursue a creative writing degree abroad, since the only existing one in my place, rejected the application with a racist remark 👏
I'm going into gr. 12 this year and I'm beginning to feel the stress about which programs I might apply to so thank you for the conveniently timed video lol. I have most definifely felt the pressure about studying STEM as opposed to writing or history which I'm most interested in so thanks for the extra motivation to do what I love!
This is a super common stress, but if it helps, it is *so* normal to change your major! Probably 75% of university students change their program in their first year or two. They make choosing your program into such a big deal in high school, and once you start uni you realize it's so easy and so normal to switch things up.
@@ShaelinWrites That's actually incredibly comforting to hear, it feels like I'm choosing the path I'll be on for the next four years and I just don't feel ready for that yet.
Oh dreeeEEEAAAAmmmmm
Also yeah me too I'm mostly concerned about prospects afterwards
Congratulations on graduating.
omg I’m struggling inside about should I get a writing degree
I love the video shaelin you a inspiraton to me as a young writer. well done getting a writing degree I have followed you from the beginning I'm proud of you. 😊 ( do you do writing updates still for the month? )
Thanks for supporting me from the start, you witnessed all my most awkward phases haha! I don't do writing updates much anymore because I vlog my writing process so it was getting a bit repetitive, but I might start doing them again at some point.
@@ShaelinWrites okay thank you haha definitely I have seen and alright shaelin can't wait for future videos 😊
I love writing and i would really love to go to a college to get one.
In Belgium you seriously pay only 1k per year, which is very low considering it's 5k in The Netherlands and basically in the UK it's the same as in the USA.
I would kill to have tuition options below $15k a year 😓
What's the difference between literary and genre fiction?
By the way thanks for sharing!
Shaelin, this may not be the correct place for a question but I’m not sure how to get hold of you.
As a Canadian writer, do you use the Canadian spelling of words ... “our” words like honour, flavour, etc and also do you use Celsius and kms, metric system.
Thank you
I use Canadian spellings. If the story is set in a country that uses the metric system, I use the metric system. If I were writing a story set in the US or had American characters, I would use Fahrenheit, though this rarely comes up in my work.
ShaelinWrites thank you so much for your response
Are you an INFP/INFJ?
Congrats on your degree btw...
Writing is definitely not as bad as many think, especially when most art degrees have transferable skills like Critical Thinking, Cultural Studies, and elements of Psychology.
I actually am an INFJ!
@@ShaelinWrites me too :)
Some of the things you said resonated, so it's nice to run into a fellow INFJ (we're a rare breed apparently).
I keep trying to find contemporary fiction authors who are successful and don’t hold degrees. It’s been nearly impossible. It seems like the industry either demands it or there is such a stigma to not having a degree that authors are too shamed to enter the field without one.
Hello, I want to get a degree(or a certificate) in Creative Writing. Because of exchange rates, most schools are too expensive for my financial situation. I found one that was maybe possible with my budget but I have a bad feeling about the school. I sent an enquiry and they didn't answer my questions, not really. I sent another enquiry and I need to wait until after Christmas for them to respond. This school is in the UK.
On the other hand, I found a university that gives Creative Writing certificate. The courses look interesting and it's more affordable. This one is in Canada.
My parents don't want me to get the certificate but a BA looks to be a bit of a stretch also. I don't know what to do.
Thanks for the vid
Chuck Palahniuk got kicked out by his own writing workshops. Not only once, but twice. I think the criticism in workshop environment is much tamer than those from the real world and it's necessary for any new writers to learn giving and taking criticism. But I will hope you won't get kicked out 'cause finding a new one is such a pain. It's a pain to you, a larger pain to your department.
Imo, if you can afford a MFA in Creative Writing, go ahead. Even if you're just doing BFA, it's still a head start and 'comfortable' environment.
I said 'comfortable', because you won't die from starvation if you have some low time and can't write something good. I mean, I would like to play the starving artist shits, but I'm too pussy to actually do it. Neil Gaiman supported himself by writing, and he have enough talent and head resources to improve his writing, SO self-teaching is clearly doable.
You can do some side gig when you're in school. Like doing street poet, participating some awards/games, writing for other small projects. Just to have some test runs for your graduation. If you can balance it, of course.
English is REALLY easy. And it is THE biggest language in entertainment business. You won't lack learning resources. And if you can write something interesting will English as your 2nd language? Why not just try? After all, it's yours or your parent's money you're spending for this kind of learning experience.
Its 2020, and I still don't know how to use tumblr....am I a teenage grandma?
Hi! I start to write poems to heal my problems. Later on, I'm used to writing poems. Though I'm getting feedbacks to publish a book. Even it happens I'll be super happy. But I know I have to improve my English and I have to put hard work into it. Can I get your advice? Though I don't have any writing degrees. I'm just an HR professional and I completed my HR professional degree program recently.