Helvetica

I am obsessed with history. I love reading about it and always try to get my hands on anything with historical significance. HOWEVER, I do not feel that my writing skills will be up to par; I would only consider myself mediocre. Does majoring in history mean that ones time will be consumed with essays and term papers? I obviously concede that it will be a major portion, but is that the entire premise? I need your help. lol please and thanks!

Student35

It varies. I've had some history courses where we read and came to class for discussion. Some will lecture and have you write papers. Some will be lecture and essay exams. Or a combination of any of those.

Your writing skills will develop. Trust me. As a senior history major I look at some of the papers I wrote 2-3 years ago and laugh at how bad they are. If you want, you might look into taking elective courses in English comp. outside of what is required.

At some point you'll be required to by a book or pamphlet of some sort on "writing history papers" or "a student guide to history" which are sometimes useful. Ask for feedback on your writing and have others critique it and give you suggestions. Read and write as much as you can. Even over the summer for practice. Read a book or research a topic and write up a review or paper.