I've been thinking about something for awhile, and I could use some friendly advice on the subject.

For awhile, I was in Graduate School studying Literature, but I left the program because it became too technical and dry, and not about the love of the story itself. I've had a few jobs and I moved back to Colorado where my parents live, and the job hunting cycle has begun anew.

Anyway, I've been considering returning to Graduate School, but this time for creative writing. It's something I've loved to do since I was a little girl, and I'm very passionate about it. I can't apply to the program until next year, so at least I have some time to think about it. Either way, I have to work for awhile, but a part of me wants to see how far I can take my talent. You never know unless you try, right? A part of me would hate to waste away the rest of my life in an office, wondering if I could've made it professionally as a writer, but then there's always the risk that I won't make it.

What do you guys think?

My advice to you is follow your dreams. What is the use of dreams but to make you advance to your fullest potential. You have the ability and the skill needed. Be bold and go for it. If you don't you will end up behind that desk wondering, "Why didn't I do it? I could have done it, I know it. I am such a fool." That regret will torture you. Don't be afraid, remember to believe in yourself.

Unless it's financially unfeasable, you should do it.

Macschick,

I think you have answered your own question. You said that you have loved creative writing and that you are very passionate about it. Love and passion are the driving forces behind all creative endeavors, be they writing, painting, sculpture or jewelry design.

I'm not making a living with jewelry, yet. Key word--yet.

Doing something you love always involves risk. But if it is something you love, it is something to which you will commit and persue with determination, perserverance and ultimately, success.

I have read every single story you have posted on this forum, enjoyed them and eagerly await your next series.

Yes, going back to school is not an easy choice, and since you have to wait a year, you could use this time to hone your skills and experiment with different markets and genres to see what suits you. I think you have talent, and the drive and determination to succeed.

I say go for it. It is far better to have tried and failed, then to have never tried and always be wondering "what if?"

MacsChick; all I can say is follow that little voice inside your heart. Ignore the one in your head.

You've shown us through your fanfic how good you are at writing, so GO FOR IT!
If it shouldn't work out, you can always say you've tried!

It's better to be sorry about the things you've tried in life than being sorry about things you've never done at all!

I can't say anything better than what anyone else has already said.

I say follow your dream... if it doesn't work out, you'll go back to office work.

Sounds like all good advice. I intend to go the filmschool as you might've known by now (if I make it at the end of the year) and um... just do what's best for you, cuz you knows best. That's what one of my teachers said to me last Monday. You'll find a way doing something you like that's good for you.
I just have this thing in my head. If I try, I want to succeed.

You might want to take an "office" job, maybe at a newspaper or magazine - to keep your skills current and to support yourself - while in your free time, you do what you really love - the creative writing. I know it sounds like alot of work, but maybe one will help the other...

Thanks, guys. So far, you're all giving me excellent advice. I can't predict what will happen in the future--anything might change my mind. I guess the main thing I'll have to do is keep my mind open to possibilities. Both work and school have their advantages, and maybe balancing them is the best. Or, as Old Fan pointed out, I could work for a living and do my writing on the side. Not everybody needs an advanced degree to write well, and many successful authors worked before they made it.