This sophomore’s set on a career as a writer and becoming the family’s first college grad.

If you keep pursuing your passion, says our elder, anything is possible.

Dear EWC:

Hi! I would prefer to remain nameless, but I can tell you I am a sophomore in high school. Recently, I have been asked many times what my plan for the future is. Over the years, I always thought I wanted to do something creative, be it art, music, or literature. I knew I would never be complete without living my life to the fullest. In any case, I want to do the best I can for my future.

I have decided to try to become a writer, something I honestly enjoy and would love to do on a full time basis. I believe I have the proper education to become a writer, but I have no comprehension as to how to go about it. I think becoming an English major would be best, but I have no clue exactly how to go about it. My family doesn’t have a lot of money, and we never saved up enough money for a college fund for myself. As well as this, my mother had dropped out of college, and my father had dropped out of high school. I want to be the first in my family to work my way through college.

Am I just being silly, or do I actually have a chance to become something people say I can’t? If I can, how do I do this? Thank you so much for reading my letter and, potentially, replying back with any and all advice you can give.
Sincerely, Write Expectations

Lincoln-Parker replies:

You are certainly off on the right path, and your high ambition is certainly not silly. That’s what makes people like you successful when others, who may have had everything handed to them, fail. You have a passion for being successful in a career you love, and nothing should stop you from pursuing it.

The fact that you say that you want to work your way through college tells me that you have already chosen the path that is going to get you that first family college degree with very proud parents attending that graduation. Look for other opportunities such as scholarships and loans if necessary. If you can’t afford a 4-year college at the start, start in a local community college with a plan of transferring to get that 4-year degree in a university.

The important thing is to always keep that passion and try to do your best wherever you are studying. I don’t know how to become a writer because I have never done that, but if that remains your passion, you will figure that out as you study. I suggest that you contact or research some of your favorite writers to help find your path. Your high school and ultimately your college professors can also guide you.

Keep pursuing your passion. Be prepared that along the way it may change to another creative area, but that is OK. Whatever it takes to live your life to its fullest is what you should do, and as long as you are willing to work for it, it can be achieved. People like you are the ones who, when they hear “you can’t do that,” always prove those naysayers wrong. Good luck.

Career
#468098