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Subject:Breaking into Tech Writing Field From:Julie Johnston <juliajaj -at- MEGSINET -dot- COM> Date:Tue, 20 Oct 1998 11:15:31 +0000
Hi everyone. I'm looking for ways to break into the technical writing
field & have a few questions that I need answers to. I would appreciate
any help you can give me.
First, let me give you a little background on my work & educational
background. For the past seven years I've worked in the computer
support area (before that I was a secretary for five years). Right now
I'm a tech support specialist for a school district (handling
troubleshooting, software installation, software review, and basic
networking). I'm working towards a bachelor's degree in technical
writing from DePaul University. The bachelor's program is being offered
by their School for New Learning where you can basically create your own
degree. It's a pretty flexible program because prior work/learning
experiences can count as educational credit. The courses are
categorized by world of work (specialization area), physical world (math
& science), arts & living (humanities), human community (social
science), and lifelong learning (DePaul's core courses). I have a few
work experiences that I can transfer over to world of work (web design
class, MCSE class, grant research/writing, & experience in tech
support). I haven't had the opportunity to take very many writing
classes (I've taken basic English 101 & 102, English Lit, Business
Communications, Intro to Tech Writing). Right now I'm taking a class
called "Language & Landscape" & in November I'm enrolled in a creative
writing class from 4-writers.com. Hopefully I'll complete my degree in
1 1/2 yrs & after that I'm going to enroll in DePaul's Master in Writing
program.
I hate to say it, but I'm getting burned out in the computer support
field & I'm anxious to enter the tech writing field. Does anyone have
any suggestions for breaking into the tech writing field if you don't
have a bachelor's degree (or should I sit tight for another 1 1/2 yrs.)
Also, does anyone have any suggestions for additional classes that I can
take in my world of work area. What are your thoughts about taking
courses over the web (such as Virtual University) & do you have any
suggestions for classes in this area. I'm planning on taking a class in
FrontPage, but I'm looking into taking courses in Framemaker & other
tech writing software programs (let me know if you have any additional
ideas).
Sorry to be so long winded in my 1st message. I'd appreciate any
assistance you can give me. Have a great day!
