Political Columnists and Writers

High School

Most newspapers and magazines expect their political columnists and writers to have a college education, so you will need to graduate from high school to be accepted into colleges and universities. As a high school student, you should take as many writing and English classes as you can. Not only that, you should also take classes in current events, political science, history, and government. Also, learn as much about computers as you can. Finally, taking a typing or keyboarding class is a good idea.

Postsecondary Training

As is the case for other journalists, at least a bachelor's degree in journalism is usually required to become a political columnist or writer, although some journalists graduate with degrees in political science or English. You can gain experience by writing for your college or university newspaper and through a summer internship at a newspaper or other publication. It also may be helpful to submit freelance opinion columns to local or national publications that feature content that is of a political nature. The more published articles (called clips) you can show to prospective employers, the better.