What is a fundamental requirement to join the Writers Guild of America (WGA)?

To join the Writers Guild of America (WGA), one of the essential requirements is to be hired to write by a signatory to a guild contract. This means that a writer must secure employment with a production company or entity that is affiliated with the WGA, demonstrating that they are working professionally within the industry. This requirement helps ensure that members are engaged in legitimate and recognized writing work that complies with the WGA's standards and practices.

The other options don't accurately reflect the criteria for membership. Attending a writing seminar, while potentially beneficial for developing skills, does not lead to WGA membership. Publishing a novel is unrelated to the screenwriting context that the WGA represents and does not provide a pathway for joining the guild. Completing a college degree in film can be advantageous for a career in writing or film production but is not a requisite for WGA membership. The focus of the WGA is on professional achievement through employment rather than educational attainment or informal workshops.