Is Creative Writing In Your Future?

         Chances are you have already begun to ponder about where you will go once you leave this University and if you are anything like me, the idea of a postgraduate degree in Creative Writing (MFA) has crossed your mind. A degree like this is not extremely common, nor is it completely necessary in order for someone to work in the Creative Writing field. So, before you make any decisions, here are some pros and cons about the MFA in Creative Writing that you may want to consider.

PROS:

Community – many writers spend hours alone with a paper and pen or at their computer vigorously thinking and testing ideas. While this is a good way to work, writers need community and to be surrounded by other writers in order to improve and move forward with their writing. A postgraduate degree offers you this. You will be in classes with many others just like you who are willing to read and critique your writing in order to help you become better.

Exploration – while getting your MFA you will be introduced to people, ideas and world views that you may otherwise never get the chance to meet and explore. This could change you and the way you write, making you a better-rounded and educated person.  In today’s society it is important that we open our minds to as much diversity as possible, especially if we are going to write stories for the world to read.

CONS:

Debt – this is probably the most obvious downside to getting an MFA. Postgraduate degrees are not cheap and while scholarships are usually available, you are not guaranteed one. A postgraduate degree will not only charge you tuition, but if you choose to go away there will be travel expenses as well as living and eating expenses.

Risky – There are no guarantees with any degree. You could graduate thinking that a job is waiting right around the corner, when in fact you will be unemployed for years. Writers have an advantage as they can be self-employed, but even that is not an easy road. Writers with a BA can easily get a job that writers with a MFA are after, it is a competitive world.

                

        There are always going to be pros and cons that we as students need to weigh before making the best decisions for ourselves. It is good to know both sides and to be aware that nothing is guaranteed. An MFA is great for an aspiring writer, but you do not need one to write. On the other hand, if you want to teach this degree is usually required. Whatever you decide, wherever you go, make sure that it is giving you the best future possible.