Working in these fields...

Though these fields are related in that they all involve working with the written word, the business focus of publishing is significantly different from the creative focuses of journalism, creative writing and illustration. Typical entry level positions in the field of publishing include editorial assistant and assistant editor, as well as positions in the managerial areas common to most organizations (technology, marketing, finance, etc.). Journalists usually begin their careers in smaller markets, and often follow their undergraduate degree with yet another summer internship in the field before looking for full-time work. Most creative writers begin as freelancers; they will need to submit their writing to a magazine, editor, agent, film production company, or television series and have it accepted for publication in order to receive payment for their work.

Students interested in jobs using writing skills may want to consider other careers as well—advertising, public relations, corporate communications, speech or position paper writing, and development are all good examples of careers that require facility with the written word. Illustrators, like creative writers, usually work as freelancers, though a small number are employed as staff of large magazines, newspapers, or publishing houses. Editorial illustrators illustrate books, magazines, newspaper articles, and advertisements; others specialize in areas such as technical, medical, botanical, product, science, industrial, or story board illustration.