Chapter 1: Understanding Science Writing

Science writing attracts those who are both inquisitive and passionate about their fields. My journey began during my college years in 2016, where I faced a dilemma between majoring in English or Biology. It wasn't until a professor encouraged me to blend these two passions that I learned about the fascinating world of science writing and communication, ultimately realizing I could transform my enthusiasm for learning into a viable career.

There are primarily two branches of science writing: journalism and public relations (PR). Science journalists focus on reporting new findings and advancements for a general audience, often weaving scientific facts into engaging narratives. Many also author nonfiction works centered on science and nature. These journalists may be employed by specific news organizations like The New York Times or American Scientist, or they may choose to freelance across various platforms.

On the other hand, science writers in PR work for research institutions and universities, crafting press releases about their scientific endeavors. Journalists utilize these press releases to write articles about the researchers and their findings for various news outlets. Some science writers, referred to as public information officers, engage in this dual role. While both professions involve interviewing scientists and researchers, their outputs differ significantly in format and intended audience. It's important to note that PR roles can be quite varied, so you won't be confined solely to writing press releases.

Most science writers do not follow a rigid career path strictly within journalism or PR. Some individuals may prefer a stable position in PR while freelancing in journalism on the side, while others might dedicate years to journalism before transitioning to a university's science writing role. Whatever route you decide to take initially, keep in mind that switching between these paths is quite common.

Now that you understand the landscape of science writing and its various forms, you may be wondering how to embark on this career journey. A great first step is to join the National Association of Science Writers (NASW).

Being part of a professional organization focused on science writing and communication provides invaluable opportunities to connect with seasoned writers and gather insights about the career. I became a member during my first semester of college, and it proved to be the most beneficial decision I made.

NASW can link you with scholarships, fellowships, job openings, conferences, and mentors. While there may be occasional drama within any organization, it remains an excellent avenue to network and stay informed about the latest happenings in the field, including new publications and local events through their newsletters.

The primary reason I advocate for joining NASW is the array of resources and learning opportunities it offers. After becoming a member, I promptly acquired copies of "A Field Guide for Science Writers" and "The Science Writer’s Handbook." I often refer back to these texts for guidance on various aspects of my writing career. Familiarizing yourself with the latest edition of "The Associated Press Stylebook" is also recommended to ensure your writing aligns with contemporary standards.

Next, it's crucial to begin your search for fellowships.

For undergraduate students, NASW offers a travel fellowship to the annual American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) meeting. I was fortunate to receive this fellowship in 2018, and it was an incredibly enriching experience. Not only did I get to attend and report on a prestigious scientific conference, but the fellowship also included an internship fair where I could interview potential employers.

AAAS also hosts the Mass Media Science & Engineering Fellowship aimed at upper-level undergraduate or graduate students. This highly regarded fellowship seeks candidates with technical expertise rather than solely English or journalism majors, providing a 10-week summer internship at some of the nation’s top news organizations.

Moreover, AAAS offers a distinguished Science & Technology Policy Fellowship that lasts 12 months. This program provides a generous stipend while fellows gain firsthand experience in policy and governance in Washington, D.C. However, it's important to note that this program typically requires prior experience in scientific research and a solid employment history, so consider obtaining a PhD before applying.

Besides these fellowships, there are numerous other opportunities available. Take the time to conduct thorough research, engage with scientific associations, and attend relevant conferences. This is also an excellent chance to meet peers who share similar interests. The field of science writing is relatively small, so building connections is beneficial.

Make an effort to attend conferences whenever possible.

Conferences provide an ideal platform for networking. While they can be costly, many offer student discounts or travel scholarships, so consider local events whenever feasible. Throughout my experience, I have only traveled for conferences when I was compensated or when they were conveniently located nearby.

Regardless of your specific scientific discipline, you can find professional organizations that host conferences for networking and sharing new developments. Make sure to attend both science writing and broader scientific conferences to broaden your horizons.

Lastly, conferences serve as excellent opportunities to connect with potential employers and explore job and internship prospects.

Apply for paid internships, and if feasible, unpaid ones as well.

Internships are a fantastic way to gain hands-on experience, especially while still in college. During my NASW fellowship, I had the chance to interview with a university news service, which ultimately led to a summer internship where my housing was provided, and the pay exceeded my previous job.

While competitive, paid internships do exist, and it’s worth the effort to apply. Take the time to research suitable positions, create a list of opportunities, and establish a timeline for application deadlines. If possible, network with hiring personnel at conferences, connect on platforms like Twitter or LinkedIn, and cultivate personal relationships. This strategy can help your application stand out from the crowd.

I also recommend reaching out to individuals who have previously interned or held fellowships with the organizations you’re interested in; they may offer valuable insights or tips for your application process. Although it’s natural to seek any position in the beginning, it’s important to be discerning. For instance, I made a conscious decision not to work for free or relocate to an expensive city where my entire paycheck would go towards rent.

Some final thoughts:

Seek avenues to write about science. Building a portfolio can be challenging without prior work, and it may be necessary to write for free to gain initial experience. I don't mean an unpaid internship that demands 25 hours a week; instead, consider dedicating some hours on weekends to contribute to a blog, write a piece on Medium, or create content for your personal website.

Additionally, I encourage you to join Twitter if you haven't yet. It’s an excellent platform for networking with fellow science writers and journalists, while also providing access to exemplary science writing. You’ll frequently come across announcements for fellowships and awards, and writers often share their latest works, which is essential for honing your skills as a writer.

You can also follow scientists to keep up with their recent publications for potential story ideas to pitch to various outlets. For more guidance on pitching and the intricacies of science writing, check out my go-to resource, The Open Notebook, which also features a fantastic guide for those starting in the field.

I wish you the best of luck on your journey into science writing! Feel free to leave comments with specific questions, and I’ll gladly provide answers.

Sarah Olson is a dedicated science writer and student at Oregon State University. She shares book reviews and discusses science literacy on her blog, readmorescience.com. Connect with her on Twitter.

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