Creative Writing...advice please

<p>S has to decide between SUNY New Paltz, Manhattan College, and Eckerd College...$$$, location not factors...I think by strength of program Eckerd would be #1, then New Paltz, then Manhattan...S does NOT want to teach.He plans on writing a best-seller...I told him to try for an actual PAYING job, and write on the side!! Something in media, publishing, etc...so Manhattan might be the place for internships...although Eckerd is near Tampa, so maybe that would work out too...what do you parents think??</p>

<p>Since most students who enter college change their majors and career plans, I suggest that your S go to the college where he feels overall he'll be happiest and will get the best overall education.</p>

<p>Creative writers come from all professions. Best selling authors have been doctors, lawyers, professors, scientists and even unemployed h.s. drop outs. If he wants to be a good writer, the best prep is to extensively read good literature. That's the one thing that most good authors have in common: They read a lot. They also write a lot and do a lot of revising of their own writing.</p>

<p>I should say a word about SUNY New Paltz because I just spent a summer there:</p>

<p>The town itself is a bit eclectic. There are a few gourmet restaurants and boutiques right along some extreme hippie stores. There is not much of an in-between. </p>

<p>As for the student body, they seemed nice enough - it seems like there is a definite focus on learning, although the atmosphere is extremely laid back. I think it would be a nice place to go to college, imo.</p>