Every year, thousands of students return to
universities across the country to pursue creative writing MFAs. As a former
journalist, I confess that getting an MFA even crossed my mind once or twice in
my professional writing career. Although the degree never really suited me, I
understand why some people would think about going back to school to obtain an
MFA. If you're debating whether or not you need an MFA, here are three key
questions you should ask yourself in order to help you decide whether or not an
MFA is the right choice for you and your career.
What
will you do with an MFA degree?
Most professional writing jobs don't require an
MFA degree, but there are a few that strongly encourage an MFA. If you have an
idea of what profession you want to work in, do some research and find out if
that job requires or encourages an MFA degree. If your career doesn't require
you to get an MFA, that doesn't mean you still shouldn't consider obtaining one,
however. Many people feel the intensive writing, editing, and revising that is
encompassed in an MFA program is extremely worthwhile. If you feel that a few
more years of school would be of benefit to you and your writing, then I'd
definitely give an MFA a consideration.
Have
you talked to MFA graduates?
You don't really know what you're getting
yourself into until you've talked to other MFA graduates. Many of these former
students will be able to tell you the true value of an MFA degree. Reach out to
teachers, colleagues, students, and mentors who have obtained an MFA and ask
them if it was worthwhile to them. Listen to their thoughts and opinions and
take them into consideration. Don't, however, let their views sway you too much
in any one direction. The decision to go for an MFA is ultimately up to you,
and you probably have a good idea whether or not you need to go back to school.
Listen to their feedback, of course, but make sure you aren't letting anybody
make the decision on your behalf.
How
will you utilize your time in an MFA program?
An MFA isn't just a degree program; it's also a
time for you to focus on writing, editing, revising, and working. During the
years you're studying for an MFA, you should be utilizing any and every
resource available to you in the program. Talk to visiting authors, go to your
professors' office hours, meet with fellow MFA students, go to outside writing
classes, and focus on developing yourself as an author. You should never go
back to school just for the sake of hanging another diploma on your wall. An
MFA is an opportunity for you to immerse yourself in a world of creative
inspiration and writing exploration. If you feel as though you will utilize all
of the countless resources in the MFA degree program, then I'd say it's
definitely worth giving an MFA degree a serious consideration.
Should you find yourself wondering 'to MFA, or
not MFA,' keep these three previous questions in mind. Good luck!
Guest post by Nancy
Wood, a freelance blogger who regularly contributes her work to various
education resource websites, such as www.OnlineCollegeClasses.com. Her articles
usually cover topics related to college student life, trends in education and
career planning. Feel free to leave Nancy
