As an aspiring writer, what should my college major be?

Writing's always been my passion, and I plan to do something with it in the future. Any advice on the best college majors for someone like me?

The right major for you depends on what kind of writing you're interested in doing and the kind of career you see yourself having post-graduation. The three majors that aspiring writers often consider are:

1. English – This major exposes you to various genres and styles of literature. It will give you an extensive understanding of different writing styles and techniques, which can be beneficial if you’re interested in becoming an author or journalist. A focus on rhetoric and composition can be especially beneficial for aspiring writers.

2. Creative Writing – If you're interested in fiction, poetry, non-fiction, or other forms of creative writing, a major in Creative Writing could be a good fit for you. The coursework usually includes workshops where you get to write and critique the work of your peers. This major could lead to careers in fields such as publishing, scriptwriting, advertising, and of course, being an author.

3. Journalism – For those interested in news writing or reporting, a degree in Journalism can be beneficial. Here, the focus will be on journalistic ethics, AP style, and different forms of news writing (like op-eds, news articles, features, etc.).

Remember that the most important thing for writers is to write often and get feedback on their writing. Hone your skills with internships, contribute to school newspapers or literary magazines, join writing clubs, and take advantage of other opportunities to share your work.

Lastly, don’t feel constrained to these options. Many successful writers come from disparate fields - the world of literature is quite diverse. It's more about finding a program and a collegiate environment where you feel you can grow your skills and expose yourself to new perspectives. The major is just one part of that.