Have you ever found yourself lost in a captivating novel, or felt your heart race as you watched a thrilling movie? The power of storytelling is undeniable. Stories have the ability to transport us to different worlds, teach us valuable lessons, and even change the way we see the world.
If you’re a student with a passion for writing and storytelling, you might be wondering how to turn that passion into a fulfilling career.
Finding a career that aligns with your passions is incredibly important. It can make a huge difference in your overall happiness and job satisfaction. Fortunately, there are many exciting career paths for those who love to write and tell stories.
In this article, we’ll explore 10 different careers for students that combine creativity, communication, and a love for the written word.
Also Read : 10 Exciting Archer Aviation Jobs to Watch in 2025
Why Writing and Storytelling Skills Are Valuable in Today’s World
In today’s rapidly evolving world, the ability to communicate effectively is more crucial than ever. This is where the power of writing and storytelling truly shines.
The growing demand for creative skills in multiple industries
Gone are the days when strong writing skills were only valued by novelists and journalists. In today’s interconnected world, creativity and communication are highly sought-after skills across a wide range of industries.
- Marketing and Advertising: Crafting compelling ad copy, writing engaging social media posts, and developing persuasive marketing campaigns all rely heavily on strong writing and storytelling abilities. These skills are in high demand in the marketing and advertising industry, creating exciting careers for students interested in creative communication.
- Business and Technology: Whether it’s writing clear and concise reports, crafting compelling presentations, or communicating complex technical information to a wider audience, strong writing skills are essential for success in the business world. This opens up a wide range of career opportunities for students in fields like business development, project management, and technical writing.
- Education: Teachers and educators use storytelling to engage students, explain complex concepts, and create a more dynamic learning environment. This highlights the importance of strong communication skills for careers for students in education, such as teaching, curriculum development, and educational technology.
- Non-profit Sector: Writing grants, crafting compelling fundraising appeals, and communicating the mission of a non-profit organization all require strong writing and storytelling skills. These skills are vital for careers for students in the non-profit sector, where effective communication is crucial for raising awareness and securing funding for important causes.
These are just a few examples of how writing and storytelling skills are valuable in today’s job market. Developing these skills can open doors to a wide range of exciting careers for students in various fields.
How storytelling connects people and builds impactful narratives
Storytelling is the foundation of human connection. It allows us to share our experiences, understand different perspectives, and build empathy.
- Building Relationships: Whether it’s sharing personal anecdotes with friends and family or crafting compelling narratives in the workplace, storytelling helps us connect with others on a deeper level. These interpersonal skills are highly valued in many careers for students, from customer service and sales to leadership roles.
- Influencing Change: Powerful stories can inspire action, raise awareness about important issues, and drive social change. This makes storytelling a crucial skill for careers for students in fields like journalism, activism, and social entrepreneurship.
- Creating Meaning: Stories help us make sense of the world around us, understand our place in it, and find meaning in our own lives. This ability to connect with audiences on an emotional level is valuable in a variety of careers for students, from creative writing and filmmaking to marketing and public relations.
In a world saturated with information, the ability to tell a compelling story can make all the difference. Whether you’re aiming to inspire, inform, or persuade, strong writing and storytelling skills are invaluable assets in today’s world. Cultivating these skills can provide students with a significant advantage in their pursuit of fulfilling careers.
Also Read : 10 Best Online Data Science Degree for Your Career
Top 10 Careers for Students Who Love Writing and Storytelling
Now that we understand the value of writing and storytelling skills in today’s world, let’s explore some exciting career options for students who are passionate about words. These careers for students offer a unique blend of creativity, communication, and the opportunity to share their unique voice with the world.
1. Content Writer
A content writer creates engaging and informative written content for various platforms, such as websites, blogs, social media, and marketing materials.
Role and responsibilities of a content writer.
Content writers play a vital role in today’s digital landscape. They are responsible for researching topics, conducting interviews, and crafting compelling articles, blog posts, and other forms of written content.
This requires a deep understanding of audience needs and the ability to tailor content to specific goals, such as increasing brand awareness, generating leads, or improving search engine rankings.
Furthermore, content writers may also be involved in keyword research, SEO optimization, and content strategy. They work closely with marketing teams to develop and execute content calendars, ensuring that the right content is published at the right time to reach the target audience.
Industries hiring content writers.
The demand for skilled content writers is constantly growing, creating a wealth of career opportunities for students across a wide range of industries. Some of the most prominent sectors include:
- Marketing and Advertising: Content writers are highly sought after by marketing agencies and in-house marketing departments to create compelling website copy, blog posts, social media content, and other marketing materials.
- Digital Marketing Agencies: These agencies specialize in developing and executing digital marketing campaigns, and content writers are essential members of their teams, creating engaging content for clients across various platforms.
- E-commerce: E-commerce companies rely heavily on high-quality content to attract customers, showcase products, and build brand loyalty. Content writers play a crucial role in creating product descriptions, blog posts, customer testimonials, and other forms of content that drive sales.
- Education: In the education sector, content writers are involved in creating educational materials, such as online courses, textbooks, and supplementary learning resources. This presents exciting career opportunities for students passionate about education and eager to contribute to the learning process.
- Technology: As technology continues to evolve, the demand for technical content writers is increasing. These professionals specialize in translating complex technical information into clear and concise language for a wider audience. This creates unique career paths for students interested in technology and communication.
- Non-profit Organizations: Non-profit organizations rely on content writers to communicate their mission, raise awareness about important issues, and engage with donors. This provides fulfilling careers for students who are passionate about making a positive impact on the world.
Skills needed to succeed in this role.
To succeed as a content writer, you’ll need a strong foundation in writing, research, and communication skills. You should be able to:
- Conduct thorough research: Gather information from various sources, including online databases, interviews, and industry reports.
- Craft compelling narratives: Write engaging and informative content that resonates with the target audience.
- Adapt to different writing styles: Tailor your writing style to suit the specific needs of each project and audience.
- Optimize content for SEO: Incorporate relevant keywords and follow best practices for search engine optimization.
- Work independently and as part of a team: Collaborate effectively with other team members, such as editors, designers, and marketing managers.
- Stay updated on industry trends: Keep abreast of the latest trends in content marketing and digital communication.
Developing these skills can open doors to a wide range of exciting career opportunities for students in the dynamic field of content writing.
2. Copywriter
Copywriters specialize in crafting persuasive and engaging text for advertising and marketing campaigns.
Overview of copywriting and its connection to advertising.
Copywriting is the art of using words to sell products, services, or ideas. It’s a crucial element of any successful advertising campaign, as it’s responsible for capturing attention, conveying key messages, and driving consumer action.
Effective copywriting can transform a mundane product description into a compelling story that resonates with the target audience and motivates them to take action.
How storytelling plays a role in effective copywriting.
Storytelling is an essential component of effective copywriting. By weaving compelling narratives into ad copy, copywriters can connect with consumers on an emotional level, build brand loyalty, and drive sales.
Also Read : Top 10 Reasons to Consider a Career in Air Traffic Control
Instead of simply listing product features, skilled copywriters use storytelling techniques to create a sense of excitement, build anticipation, and evoke a desired emotional response in the audience.
For example, instead of simply stating that a new car is fuel-efficient, a copywriter might tell a story about a family enjoying a road trip made possible by the car’s exceptional gas mileage.
This storytelling approach not only highlights the car’s features but also creates an emotional connection with potential buyers, making the advertisement more memorable and persuasive.
Potential career paths in copywriting.
Copywriters can find employment in advertising agencies, marketing departments, and freelance roles. Some potential career paths include:
Also Read : Best 10 Solo Travel Tours Destinations in 2025
- Direct Response Copywriter: Focuses on writing direct mail campaigns, email marketing, and other forms of direct marketing. These careers for students require a strong understanding of customer psychology and the ability to craft persuasive messages that drive immediate action.
- Creative Copywriter: Develops creative concepts and slogans for advertising campaigns. This role demands a high level of creativity and the ability to think outside the box to develop unique and memorable advertising campaigns.
- Digital Copywriter: Specializes in writing website content, social media ads, and other forms of digital marketing copy. This is one of the most in-demand career options for students in today’s digital age, as businesses increasingly rely on digital channels to reach their target audience.
3. Author or Novelist
For many students, becoming an author or novelist is the ultimate dream.
Exploring creative writing as a career.
Creative writing allows you to express your unique voice and share your stories with the world. It’s a challenging but rewarding path that offers the opportunity to connect with readers on a deep and meaningful level.
Opportunities for publishing fiction or non-fiction.
There are various avenues for publishing your work, each with its own unique set of advantages and challenges:
- Traditional Publishing: This involves submitting your manuscript to literary agents and publishing houses. Traditional publishing offers the prestige of being published by a well-known publisher, access to professional editing and marketing resources, and wider distribution channels. However, it can be a competitive and time-consuming process, with a high rejection rate.
- Self-Publishing: Self-publishing allows you to retain control over all aspects of the publishing process, from editing and cover design to marketing and distribution. Platforms like Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP) make it easier than ever for aspiring authors to self-publish their work and reach a global audience.
- Online Platforms: Sharing your writing on online platforms like Medium, Wattpad, and personal blogs can provide valuable exposure and feedback, helping you build a readership and refine your craft. These platforms can also serve as a springboard for traditional or self-publishing opportunities.
Tips to get started as an author.
- Practice consistently: Writing is a skill that requires consistent practice. Dedicate regular time to writing, even if it’s just for a short period each day.
- Read widely: Immerse yourself in the works of other authors, both within and outside your preferred genre. Pay attention to their writing style, plot development, and characterization.
- Seek feedback: Share your writing with trusted friends, family, or writing groups. Constructive criticism can help you identify areas for improvement and refine your craft.
- Build an online presence: Create a website or social media profiles to showcase your work and connect with potential readers.
- Attend writing workshops and conferences: These events provide valuable opportunities to learn from experienced writers, network with other aspiring authors, and gain insights into the publishing industry.
Becoming an author is a journey that requires dedication, perseverance, and a love for the written word. However, the rewards of sharing your unique voice with the world can be immense.
4. Journalist
Journalism is a dynamic and rewarding career path for students who are passionate about storytelling and informing the public.
The art of storytelling in news and reporting.
Journalists are skilled storytellers who use their writing and reporting skills to inform, entertain, and educate the public. They investigate and report on current events, conduct interviews, and present information in a clear, concise, and engaging manner.
Career paths in digital and traditional journalism.
The field of journalism is constantly evolving, with new opportunities emerging in digital and multimedia platforms.
- Traditional Journalism: This includes roles in newspapers, magazines, and television news.
- Digital Journalism: This encompasses online news outlets, blogs, social media platforms, and other digital media.
- Investigative Journalism: This involves in-depth research and reporting on issues of public importance.
- Data Journalism: This involves analyzing and presenting data in a compelling and informative way.
Skills and education requirements for journalists.
To succeed in journalism, you’ll need strong writing, research, and communication skills. You should also be curious, inquisitive, and possess a strong ethical compass. While a college degree is often preferred, many aspiring journalists gain valuable experience through internships and entry-level positions in the field.
5. Screenwriter
For aspiring filmmakers and television enthusiasts, screenwriting offers a unique and challenging career path.
Writing scripts for movies, TV shows, or web series.
Screenwriters craft the stories that come to life on the silver screen. They write scripts for movies, television shows, web series, and other forms of visual media. This involves developing compelling characters, creating engaging plots, and writing dialogue that is both realistic and memorable.
Opportunities in the film and entertainment industry.
The film and entertainment industry offers a wide range of career opportunities for students interested in screenwriting.
- Feature Film Screenwriting: Writing scripts for feature films, ranging from independent films to blockbuster productions.
- Television Screenwriting: Writing scripts for television series, including dramas, comedies, documentaries, and reality shows.
- Web Series Screenwriting: Creating original content for online platforms like YouTube and Netflix.
- Video Game Screenwriting: Writing dialogue and storylines for video games.
How students can get started with screenwriting.
- Take screenwriting courses: Enroll in online or in-person courses to learn the fundamentals of screenwriting, including script formatting, character development, and plot structure.
- Read screenplays: Analyze successful screenplays to understand how professional screenwriters craft their stories.
- Write, write, write: Practice writing your own screenplays, even if they’re just short scripts or spec scripts (unsolicited scripts written for a specific television show).
- Network with industry professionals: Attend film festivals, industry events, and workshops to connect with other screenwriters, directors, and producers.
- Submit your work to script competitions and contests: This can provide valuable feedback and exposure to industry professionals.
Screenwriting is a competitive field, but with dedication and perseverance, aspiring screenwriters can turn their passion for storytelling into a fulfilling career.
6. Technical Writer
Technical writing is a specialized field that requires a unique blend of technical expertise and strong writing skills.
Translating complex information into simple content.
Technical writers translate complex technical information into clear, concise, and easily understandable documentation. This includes creating user manuals, software documentation, technical specifications, and other forms of technical communication.
Industries where technical writing thrives.
Technical writing is essential in many industries, including:
- Technology: Creating documentation for software, hardware, and other technical products.
- Healthcare: Developing medical device manuals, patient information brochures, and clinical trial reports.
- Aerospace and Defense: Producing technical manuals and reports for aircraft, spacecraft, and military equipment.
- Engineering: Creating technical specifications, design documents, and other technical documentation for engineering projects.
Certifications and courses for aspiring technical writers.
There are various certifications and courses available for aspiring technical writers, including:
- Certified Professional Technical Communicator (CPTC): A professional certification offered by the Society for Technical Communication (STC).
- Online courses and workshops: Many online platforms offer courses in technical writing, covering topics such as style guides, documentation standards, and technical editing.
Technical writing offers a stable and rewarding career path for students with a strong interest in technology and a passion for clear and concise communication.
7. Marketing Specialist
Marketing specialists play a crucial role in promoting products, services, and brands. Strong writing and storytelling skills are essential for success in this dynamic field.
The role of storytelling in crafting marketing campaigns.
Storytelling is at the heart of effective marketing campaigns. By weaving compelling narratives into their marketing materials, marketers can connect with consumers on an emotional level, build brand loyalty, and drive sales.
- Crafting compelling brand stories: Marketing specialists develop and communicate a brand’s unique story, values, and mission. This involves creating compelling narratives that resonate with the target audience and differentiate the brand from competitors.
- Developing engaging content: From social media posts and blog articles to website copy and video scripts, marketing specialists create a variety of content that tells the brand’s story and engages the audience.
- Building customer relationships: By sharing customer stories, highlighting customer success, and creating a sense of community, marketing specialists build strong relationships with customers and foster brand loyalty.
How writing skills enhance digital marketing strategies.
In today’s digital age, strong writing skills are essential for successful digital marketing campaigns.
- SEO and content marketing: Writing high-quality, SEO-optimized content is crucial for improving search engine rankings and driving organic traffic to websites.
- Social media marketing: Crafting engaging social media posts, running effective social media campaigns, and building online communities require strong writing and storytelling skills.
- Email marketing: Writing persuasive email copy that converts leads into customers is a critical skill for email marketing specialists.
- Pay-per-click (PPC) advertising: Writing compelling ad copy for search engine and social media advertising campaigns is essential for maximizing return on investment (ROI).
Career opportunities in the marketing sector.
The marketing sector offers a wide range of career opportunities for students, including:
- Social Media Manager: Managing a brand’s social media presence and engaging with online communities.
- Content Marketing Manager: Developing and executing content marketing strategies, including blog posts, articles, and other forms of online content.
- Email Marketing Specialist: Creating and managing email marketing campaigns, including newsletters, promotional emails, and automated email sequences.
- Search Engine Optimization (SEO) Specialist: Optimizing website content and online marketing campaigns to improve search engine rankings.
- Public Relations Specialist: Managing media relations, building brand reputation, and responding to public inquiries.
By developing strong writing and storytelling skills, students can position themselves for success in a variety of exciting careers for students within the dynamic marketing sector.
8. Editor or Proofreader
Editors and proofreaders play a vital role in ensuring the accuracy, clarity, and quality of written content.
Careers focusing on refining and improving written content.
Editors and proofreaders are responsible for reviewing and revising written materials, such as books, articles, manuscripts, and marketing materials. They carefully examine the text for errors in grammar, punctuation, spelling, and style.
Opportunities in publishing houses and freelancing.
Career opportunities for students in editing and proofreading exist in a variety of settings:
- Publishing Houses: Working as in-house editors or proofreaders for publishing houses, reviewing manuscripts for fiction and non-fiction books.
- Freelancing: Working as freelance editors and proofreaders, providing services to clients such as authors, businesses, and academic institutions.
- Online Platforms: Utilizing online platforms to connect with clients and provide editing and proofreading services remotely.
Essential skills for editors and proofreaders.
To succeed as an editor or proofreader, you’ll need:
- Strong grammar and punctuation skills: A meticulous eye for detail and a deep understanding of grammar and punctuation rules.
- Excellent attention to detail: The ability to identify and correct even the most subtle errors.
- Strong analytical and critical thinking skills: The ability to evaluate the clarity, flow, and overall effectiveness of written content.
- Familiarity with style guides: A thorough understanding of style guides such as the Chicago Manual of Style and the Associated Press Stylebook.
By honing these skills, students can pursue rewarding careers for students in the field of editing and proofreading, ensuring the accuracy and clarity of written communication across various industries.
9. Social Media Manager
In today’s digital age, social media has become an essential tool for businesses, organizations, and individuals to connect with their audiences. Social media managers play a crucial role in developing and executing effective social media strategies.
Using storytelling to engage audiences on social platforms.
Storytelling is at the heart of successful social media marketing. Social media managers use compelling narratives to engage audiences, build brand awareness, and drive customer action.
- Crafting engaging social media posts: Writing captivating captions, creating compelling visuals, and sharing relevant stories are essential for capturing audience attention and driving engagement.
- Developing and executing social media campaigns: Social media managers plan and execute social media campaigns that align with the brand’s overall marketing goals. This often involves creating and sharing compelling stories, running contests and giveaways, and leveraging user-generated content.
- Building online communities: Social media managers foster a sense of community by interacting with followers, responding to comments and messages, and creating a positive and engaging online experience.
Writing captions, campaigns, and posts that resonate.
Crafting compelling social media content requires a deep understanding of the target audience and the ability to tell stories that resonate with them.
- Using a conversational tone: Writing in a natural, conversational tone that reflects the brand’s personality and connects with the audience on a personal level.
- Incorporating storytelling elements: Using storytelling techniques such as anecdotes, humor, and emotional appeals to capture attention and create a lasting impact.
- Utilizing visual storytelling: Combining compelling visuals with engaging captions to create visually appealing and shareable content.
- Leveraging trending topics and hashtags: Staying up-to-date on the latest trends and incorporating relevant hashtags to increase visibility and reach.
How students can build a career in social media management.
- Developing strong social media skills: Actively using and engaging with various social media platforms, experimenting with different content formats, and analyzing social media trends.
- Building a personal brand: Creating and maintaining a strong personal brand on social media platforms can demonstrate your skills and expertise to potential employers.
- Gaining practical experience: Interning with marketing agencies, non-profit organizations, or businesses to gain hands-on experience in social media management.
- Taking online courses and certifications: Enrolling in online courses and obtaining certifications in social media marketing, content marketing, and digital marketing.
Social media management offers a dynamic and exciting career path for students who are passionate about social media, storytelling, and connecting with people online.
10. Public Relations Specialist
Public relations (PR) specialists play a crucial role in shaping and protecting a company’s or organization’s public image.
Crafting compelling press releases and public statements.
A key responsibility of PR specialists is to craft compelling press releases and public statements that communicate key messages to the media and the public.
- Writing clear and concise press releases: Announcing new products, services, or initiatives; responding to media inquiries; and managing crises effectively.
- Developing media pitches: Crafting compelling pitches to journalists and media outlets to secure media coverage for clients.
- Building and maintaining relationships with media: Cultivating relationships with journalists, bloggers, and other media professionals to build strong media connections.
The importance of storytelling in shaping brand image.
Storytelling is essential for shaping a positive and compelling brand image. PR specialists use storytelling techniques to:
- Humanize brands: Sharing compelling stories about the people behind the brand, their values, and their commitment to making a positive impact.
- Highlight brand achievements: Telling stories about the brand’s successes, customer testimonials, and community involvement.
- Managing crises: Effectively communicating with stakeholders and the public during times of crisis, mitigating damage to the brand’s reputation.
Skills required to excel in PR.
To excel in public relations, students need a strong foundation in:
- Writing and communication skills: Crafting clear, concise, and persuasive written and verbal communications.
- Interpersonal and communication skills: Building and maintaining strong relationships with media, clients, and other stakeholders.
- Research and analytical skills: Conducting thorough research, analyzing media coverage, and identifying potential public relations opportunities.
- Crisis communication skills: Developing and implementing effective crisis communication strategies.
Public relations offers a challenging and rewarding career for students who are passionate about communication, storytelling, and building strong relationships.
How to Prepare for Careers for Students Who Love Writing and Storytelling
Passion for writing and storytelling is a fantastic foundation, but targeted preparation can significantly increase your chances of landing your dream job. Here are some key steps:
Gain Relevant Skills Through Education and Practice
Formal education and consistent practice are crucial for honing your writing and storytelling skills.
- List of relevant courses, certifications, and online resources:
- English Literature and Creative Writing: College courses in English literature, creative writing, and journalism can provide a strong foundation in grammar, literary analysis, and creative expression.
- Journalism and Media Studies: Courses in journalism, media studies, and communication can equip you with valuable skills in reporting, interviewing, and media relations.
- Marketing and Communications: Courses in marketing, public relations, and digital marketing can provide valuable insights into the world of professional communication and content creation.
- Online Courses and Certifications: Platforms like Coursera, edX, and Udemy offer a wide range of online courses and certifications in writing, storytelling, journalism, and digital marketing. Consider courses in content writing, copywriting, SEO writing, social media marketing, and public relations.
- Creative Writing Workshops: Participating in creative writing workshops can provide valuable feedback and guidance from experienced writers.
- Importance of building a strong portfolio: A strong portfolio is essential for showcasing your writing skills to potential employers. It should include samples of your best work, such as:
- Writing Sample : Articles, blog posts, short stories, poems, screenplays, or any other writing samples that demonstrate your skills and style.
- Creative projects : Personal projects such as short films, web series, or social media campaigns that showcase your creativity and storytelling abilities.
- Academic papers : High-quality academic papers that demonstrate your research, writing, and analytical skills.
Network and Seek Internships
Networking and gaining practical experience through internships are invaluable for building your career in writing and storytelling.
- Tips for connecting with industry professionals:
- Attend industry events: Film festivals, writing conferences, and industry events provide excellent opportunities to network with professionals in the field.
- Join professional organizations: Organizations like the Society for Technical Communication (STC), the Association of Writers & Writing Programs (AWP), and the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA) offer networking opportunities and professional development resources.
- Connect on LinkedIn: Build a strong LinkedIn profile and connect with professionals in your field of interest.
- Informational interviews: Reach out to professionals in your desired field for informational interviews to learn about their career paths and gain valuable insights.
- How internships can lead to full-time opportunities: Internships provide invaluable hands-on experience and allow you to apply your skills in a real-world setting. They can also help you build your professional network and increase your visibility within the industry. Many internships lead to full-time job offers, making them an excellent pathway to a successful career in writing and storytelling.
By combining education, practice, networking, and internships, you can lay a strong foundation for a successful career in the exciting world of writing and storytelling. Remember to be patient, persistent, and passionate, and never stop learning and growing as a writer.
Final Thoughts on Careers for Students Who Love Writing and Storytelling
Throughout this article, we’ve explored a diverse range of careers for students who are passionate about writing and storytelling. From content writing and copywriting to journalism, screenwriting, and public relations, the possibilities are truly endless.
The world needs compelling stories, and those with the skills to craft them are in high demand. Whether you dream of writing the next great American novel, crafting captivating marketing campaigns, or informing the public through insightful journalism, remember that your passion for writing can be the foundation for a fulfilling and rewarding career.
Encouragement to pursue passions and turn them into successful careers.
Pursuing a career in writing and storytelling requires dedication, perseverance, and a willingness to learn and grow. It’s a journey that may have its challenges, but the rewards of sharing your unique voice with the world can be immense.
So, embrace your passion for writing, nurture your creativity, and explore the many exciting career options for students that await you. With hard work, dedication, and a touch of creativity, you can turn your love for writing and storytelling into a successful and fulfilling career.
Remember:
- Embrace your unique voice: Find your own unique style and perspective as a writer.
- Never stop learning: Continuously learn and grow as a writer by reading widely, seeking feedback, and attending workshops and conferences.
- Network and connect: Build relationships with other writers, industry professionals, and mentors.
- Believe in yourself: Have confidence in your abilities and pursue your writing dreams with passion and determination.
The world needs your stories. Go out there and tell them!
I hope this article has inspired you to explore the exciting world of writing and storytelling and to pursue your passion for words.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered professional career advice.