Expert: Misti Sandefur - 7/7/2006

Question
I am a 25 year old wife, mother and Mail Tracking Supervisor. I would like to get started as a nonfiction freelance writer. I would like to write articles, books, etc. I have been told that success would not be possible without a college degree. Is this true?  

Answer
Melissa,

I know many successful writers from all walks of life, and some have college degrees while others do not. The majority of the writers I know do not have a college degree. As a matter of fact, I don't hold a college degree either, and I've published over 40 articles in print and electronic magazines, am the editor of "Coffee Break for Writers," and I've also published two books and am working on my third. So to answer your question, no, you don't need a college degree to be a successful freelance writer -- non-fiction or fiction.

A few college courses in writing, and even a degree can certainly help improve your skills and it can also make your resume more attractive, but it is not necessary.

If you have any further questions don't hesitate to ask.