Q: (Initially posted March 26, 2005) FROM STUDENT MEMBER LAUREN S. IN CT
I like writing and am pretty good at it. I heard that technical writers are
in great demand and that it is a great way for me to combine my love of
science and writing into one career. How does one end up in a technical
writer job? What sort of career options are included in this field? Would I
have to take a lot of science courses in college to have this career or
would just an English degree be enough?

A: FROM MENTOR JEANINE BROSCH IN INDIANA
Technically all you will need is a degree in English however companies will look for applicants with somewhat technical backgrounds or aptitude. I would choose an area that you like and take extra classes in that area. For instance if you have been curious as to what makes programs such as the internet or email work, you may want to take some web programming or computer Science courses. Or if you are interested in art there are computer graphic designs. Technical writers write anything from user's manuals you receive with your computer, camera, thermomter, etc to in depth technical reference guides. Hope that helps!