Should an Author Drop Out of School to Write Full-Time?

The decision to drop out of school and pursue full-time writing is a complex one, especially when you already hold a Bachelor's degree. This article explores whether it's more beneficial to stay in school or to start writing as a part-time job, discussing the advantages both options have to offer.

The Advantages of Staying in School

Many areas of study, such as creative writing, journalism, scientific writing, and translation, can be further advanced through a Master's program. These programs offer several advantages:

Structured Learning and Feedback: At the graduate level, you are coached and mentored by experienced professors. Your writing will be critically reviewed and refined based on their feedback. This structured learning is invaluable for developing your craft. MFA Degree as a Terminal Degree: An MFA (Master of Fine Arts) degree is often considered the highest professional certification for a writer. It can lead to teaching positions at the college level, providing another source of income while you continue to build your writing career. Network Expansion: Engaging in a higher education program puts you in contact with published authors, agents, and industry professionals, which can be instrumental in your career development.

The Challenges of Full-Time Writing

Success as a professional author is notoriously difficult and usually takes years to achieve. Here are a few points to consider:

Ideas and Feedback: After completing your degree, it might be challenging to find polished readers and editors. Your friends and family, while well-meaning, may not provide valuable feedback. Notable authors like David Sedaris have had to balance their writing careers with other responsibilities to gain recognition and success. Breadwinning Skills: Writing, in general, doesn't pay well. Even successful authors often do not make a primary living from their writing. Career success as a writer usually requires juggling multiple sources of income, including part-time jobs or side projects. Financial Security: Always consider your financial security first. Jumping into full-time writing without a backup plan can lead to financial instability.

Bridge the Gap with Part-Time Writing

If you are already invested in your higher education, consider integrating writing into your current schedule as a part-time job:

Build Your Portfolio: Use your spare time to write and hone your craft. This will help you develop a strong portfolio that can be showcased to literary agents, publishers, or potential employers. Publishable Content: Start building a presence in the publishing world by contributing articles, essays, or short stories to magazines and blogs. Transition Gradually: Gradually shifting from part-time to full-time writing as you see success and achieve stability in your writing career.

Conclusion

Deciding between full-time and part-time writing depends on your current situation and long-term goals. Staying in school to complete your Master's can provide you with invaluable skills and experience that can be leveraged in your writing career. On the other hand, balancing writing with a part-time job can provide you with the financial stability and practical experience needed to succeed as a full-time author.