English and Creative Writing

The major offers creative writing and literature tracks, both of which offer students excellent training in the kind of clear writing, analytical reasoning, and creative thinking necessary for success in any career. Each track emphasizes the value and importance of critical thought while offering a variety of exciting opportunities that allow students to pursue their passions and prepare for the future. 

In addition to off-campus study and internships, students take active roles in the Lake Forest College Press and the Lake Forest Literary Festival. Students can join clubs and organizations such as our vibrant literary club INK, which organizes used bookstore hops, literary debates and games, open mic nights, trips to the American Writers Museum, and other cultural attractions in the city. Other clubs and events include our annual fall party, the Writing Club, and weekly Russian Tea Time where we discuss Russian literature. We also make trips to the Chicago Shakespeare Theater at Navy Pier. 

Students and faculty regularly take advantage of a number of cultural resources that enhance their study of English, with trips to theaters like Chicago Shakespeare, Lookingglass Theater, Writers Theatre, and Second City. Additionally, our proximity to Chicago offers internship and experiential learning opportunities with an abundance of organizations in and around the city such as the American Library Association, Chicago Scene, Chicago Shakespeare Theatre, Facets, Harold Washington Library, June Media, Newberry Library, and 826Chi.

The Fielding Fellows Program is an engaging one-on-one research opportunity for students passionate about English and interdisciplinary learning. English majors can apply for this paid fellowship, gain marketable real-world experience in the field of English studies, and receive guided mentorship from department faculty.  

Do you have a voracious appetite for reading and writing? Does a blank page make your heart race with the endless possibilities for filling it? Submit your essay today for a chance to earn more toward your education. Submit your essay to the Carnegie English Essay Contest.

Lake Forest College’s English majors pursue many different careers, running the gamut from software developer at Epic to art director at the New York Times; from lecturer at the University of Wisconsin to film producer and editor; from corporate communications writer at Abbott Labs to the local state’s attorney. Read about opportunities after graduation.