Switching from aerospace to writing. Need some advice?

Question

Well, long story short, it's the end of my freshman year of college, and I'm ready to switch out of aerospace engineering to something more creative and/or artistic. Over the course of this year, I've realized what appealed to me in engineering, and it looks like that's not the best outlet for what I want to do.

I've been told by all sorts of people - among them English teachers - that I've got a knack for writing. I have a tendency to think outside the box. I really need to make something meaningful - something that moves people emotionally and/or intellectually. As much as I respect my many engineering friends, I just don't see that direction as satisfying my needs.

Right now, I'd like to write fiction and/or scripts. I'd also like to work in the videogame industry, so I think it'd be beneficial for me to learn how to make 3-D models on computers. I'm wondering what direction I should go. If I ever want to be hired by a videogame developer, I'll need a BA or BS.

I really don't think an English degree would be wise. I know all the grammar and punctuation I'll ever need. And by nature, I'm a very analytical person, so I don't think being assigned books and questions on said books would be very productive. Right now, I'm reading Jules Verne and plan to continue reading other classics. I take mental and literal notes on how Verne implements various methods in his writing. I also plan on analyzing the Finding Nemo script, looking at the implementation and purpose of each scene.

I was thinking about maybe getting a history degree and using that historical knowledge to make accurate characters. History reveals human behavior and is a great source of inspiration for art. If all else fails, I also wouldn't mind being a history professor. Granted, it would be depriving me of many of my career goals, but it's a good backup.

I also recently started looking into sociology. I think it might be a little too statistics-based for much use, but there might be something there.

I don't think psychology is a viable option. I took a fun intro class for a GE, and I surprisingly don't see too many applications for it.

I'm simply looking for input. Can anyone help?

Anonymous · Accepted Answer

I would do the history degree, especially if that is something that interests you beyond the use in writing.  Continue to take english classes as well though, being around others who share your passion for writing and storytelling will be good. You could also consider Journalism.

? · Answer

in case you have an pastime in engineering you could be very stable at math. this may well be a real requirement. i think that the final way forward for aerospace will practice a continuation of the shrinking already in technique. A greater known field alongside with a B.S. in mechanical engineering would be the place a lot of properly paying jobs will stay. by the way. do no longer grow to be too enamored with NASA. it particularly is glory days are over and it particularly is destiny is undefined (even by NASA). To industry insiders, the common and effectiveness of the organization has been greater hype than substance. while i grow to be a 0.5-baked rocket scientist, there grow to be a asserting : people who can, do. people who can't do, coach. people who can't coach, connect NASA. slightly extreme, possibly, yet with a modicum of reality. Set your factors of interest on the internal maximum sector. stable luck, and God Bless.

meat · Answer

I won't be giving you any advice on engineering or history or college degrees.  That's something you're going to have to decide for yourself.

However, I can give you some advice about screenwriting: you don't need a writing degree.  In fact, a degree can be seen as a detriment; it shows that you're gullible enough to think that you need one.  Imagination cannot be taught.

If you want to write, then write.  It won't get in the way of your college, and it might just pay for it.

Trending News

Switching from aerospace to writing. Need some advice?

3 Answers