<p><span class="p-body">The <a href="/content/sps-nyu/explore/degrees-and-programs/ms-in-professional-writing.html" target="_blank">MS in Professional Writing</a> degree from NYU SPS is a fully online program designed to prepare the next generation of writers for a broad spectrum of senior-level writing careers. Meahjabeen Hoque is one of those writers, and we were delighted to catch up with her to learn more about her experience in the program, what she's learned so far, and her advice for prospective students.</span></p>
Inspiration Close to Home
<p><span class="p-body">Meahjabeen is a proud second-generation Bengali woman and was born and raised in New York, a place that has always been close to her heart. Growing up in NYC, she can trace back her interests in fashion, medicine, and writing as far as she can remember. An avid traveler, she's always on the lookout to try new restaurants and learn from different cultures. </span></p>
<p><span class="p-body">For Meahjabeen, NYU was a natural choice for furthering her education. As she puts it, "NYU has always been my dream school. To be fair, it's quite literally in the name. What better way to feel pride in where you're from?"</span></p>
<p><span class="p-body">Being part of an online program felt unconventional for Meahjabeen at first, but she found herself getting into the swing of things soon enough. Though she has limited exposure to on-campus life due to her work schedule, living in New York provides her with the flexibility to participate in various campus events, which makes studying online feel less isolating. She values the accessibility of resources and the strong network of peers and faculty that NYU offers. "Resources, communicative tools, and my peers have been consistently available to support my journey in this program," she shares.</span></p>
Gaining Hands-on Experience in Medical Writing
<p><span class="p-body">This semester, Meahjabeen is taking a significant step in her career by interning at a medical communications company. This opportunity allows her to get fully immersed in the world of medical writing by writing, ideating, and editing content for the company. She is particularly excited about learning how medical writers generate content and collaborate with clinicians to substantiate their findings. This hands-on experience is paving the way for her to understand the nuances of medical writing, a field where she aims to make her mark after graduation. The MS in Professional Writing program has been instrumental in shaping Meahjabeen's writing skills. </span></p>
I've always been immersed in various forms of writing, [but] there are a few structural components, such as creating a resume or cover letter, composing business letters, researching literature, and developing or incorporating multimedia that I've not always been familiar with. Therefore, this program encourages me to broaden my understanding of professional writing."
<p><span class="p-body">The program has helped her bridge the gaps in her knowledge, and she now frequently utilizes these skills in her role as an assistant editor for a communications brand. She notes, "I always find myself utilizing these acquired skills in my work as a newfound idea or as tools to enhance my work."</span></p>
<p><span class="p-body">With a bachelor's degree in biology, Meahjabeen's interest in medicine has always been strong. However, through her time at NYU SPS, she has come to appreciate how her passion for writing can intersect with her knowledge of biology to forge a unique career path in medical writing. She aspires to work for a communications firm or a pharmaceutical company. "I hope to find a career that intertwines these two passions," she says, while also remaining open to exploring different types of writing professionally.</span></p>
Staying Ahead in a Dynamic Field
<p><span class="p-body">NYU SPS has given Meahjabeen a comprehensive overview of the diverse fields within professional writing. Before joining the program, she had little knowledge of business writing, financial writing, or informational architecture but now she feels confident applying principles from these varied types of writing to her work as needed. Additionally, she appreciates how the program has kept pace with technological advancements, teaching her to create websites, write social media copy, and integrate multimedia with her writing. "Being able to explore these many aspects allows me to feel more confident in professional writing," she adds.</span></p>
Advice for Fellow Writers
<p><span class="p-body">When it comes to advice, Meahjabeen encourages students to engage with peers for feedback and to explore different writing styles. "Writing is subjective, but can always be prodded and tweaked to be better with each read," she explains. She also urges incoming students to embrace the freedom that the program offers by exploring topics that spark their interest, even if it means stepping outside their comfort zones. "Expand your limits and see what is best fitting for you!" she advises.</span></p>
<p><span class="p-body">As Meahjabeen prepares for her next chapter, she is excited about the possibilities that lie ahead in the medical writing field. With the skills and confidence she has gained from NYU SPS, she is well-equipped to make significant contributions to her chosen profession, wherever her journey takes her. For her, writing is a way to bring real-world experiences and diverse perspectives to life, both for herself and for her readers.</span></p>
<p><span class="p-body">Take your place at the center of the professional writing world, from anywhere in the world when you pursue a 100% online <a href="/content/sps-nyu/explore/degrees-and-programs/ms-in-professional-writing.html" target="_blank">MS in Professional Writing</a> degree from NYU SPS.</span></p>