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Careers Related to English

© Bridget Slayden

In the world of teaching, it is inevitable that one will encounter the ever prominent question,"What are we going to use English for anyway?" When I first entered the English program in college, I did so because of my love for everything related to English--reading,writing,researching, and vocabulary. Everyone, including me, assumed I would go into teaching. I never stopped to consider what I could do with my English major if my plans changed. What else is out there for English majors? Well, I discovered just how valuable and well-rounded an English education is through a little research. In fact, many employers seek employees with developed communication,problem-solving, and decision making skills, key components in the English curriculum. I decided to explore the various avenues that an English background would be suitable for and share them with you. The following three careers each have related occupations attached as well as specified links.

WRITER and EDITOR

Writers and Editors communicate through the written word. (Sounds familiar!) Writers develop fiction and nonfiction for books, magazines, newspapers, company newletters and various other mediums. Editors select and prepare material for publication oftentimes supervising writers. Writers and Editors must be able to express ideas clearly and logically. They must also love to write even under pressure. This field is good for those who are creative, curious, knowledgeable, and self-motivated. In 1996, the average earnings of a beginning writer or editor was $21,000. Experienced workers earned on average $30,000 to nearly $70,000. Related fields include: Reporters and Correspondents, Technical Writers, and Proofreaders. For more information about Writers and Editors please visit:

http://stats.bls.gov/oco/ocos089.htm

LAWYER

An English background is a good base for entry into a three-year law school. Lawyers act as advocates and advisors in our society using the research and communication skills learned through an English education. The internet is becoming an important tool for research and advertisement purposes. Most laywers do their work in offices, law libraries, and courtrooms putting in about 50 hours a week. Although the pay varies considerably, the median salary has been estimated at $60,000. Related fields include: FBI Agent, Legislative Assistant, Lobbyist, and Politician. For more information about Lawyers please visit:

http://stats.bls.gov/oco/ocos053.htm

ADVERTISING/PUBLIC RELATIONS MANAGER

Advertising and Public Relations managers coordinate activities relating to marketing a firm's products and services profitably. A well-rounded education is sought by employers who also prefer employees to be mature, creative, highly motivated, and flexible, yet decisive. The ability to communicate well both orally and in writing is a necessity. Most managers work about 50 hours a week earning a beginning salary of $27,000 to nearly $100,000 with considerable experience. Related fields include: Sales Representatives and Marketing Research Analysts. For more information about Advertising and Public Relations Managers please visit: