Exploring the Intersections of Career Paths and Writing

In a thought-provoking reflection on career choices and the art of writing, Riley Strait, a sophomore from Olathe, Kansas, explores the complexities of pursuing a creative path while considering traditional professions. In his recent column published on December 14, 2025, Strait draws parallels between various careers that deal with life’s beginnings and endings, ultimately advocating for the value of language arts.

Connecting Careers and Creative Expression

Strait begins by candidly discussing his own educational journey, revealing a past career aptitude test that surprisingly matched him with professions such as OB/GYN, midwife, coroner, and funeral director. These roles suggest a deep engagement with the cycles of life, contrasting sharply with his current pursuit of a degree in creative writing. He muses on how the test results felt like “scarlet letters,” marking him with expectations that did not fully resonate with his true ambitions.

He reflects on the societal perceptions surrounding men in women’s health, expressing a sense of irony in being discouraged from pursuing a path that could yield significant financial rewards—up to $300,000 annually as an OB/GYN—while he chose to follow his passion for writing instead. Strait acknowledges the challenges inherent in both fields, noting that whether one is present for a birth or crafting a narrative, both careers demand a profound understanding of beginnings and endings.

The Challenges of Communication

Strait’s narrative shifts to the nature of language and expression, as he grapples with the limitations of words. He likens writing to navigating a “leaky ship,” suggesting that while language is essential for communication, it often leads to misunderstandings. This realization surfaced during a recent seminar where he was asked, “Why poetry?” His introspection reveals that he values the struggle to convey thoughts through language, despite its inherent flaws.

He draws a compelling analogy between language arts and wordless forms of expression, such as painting and music. Strait argues that while both arts require effort and creativity, wordless mediums may sidestep the pitfalls of miscommunication that accompany spoken or written language. This distinction prompts readers to consider the significance of striving for clarity and connection through words, even when the outcome is uncertain.

Strait’s exploration of these themes culminates in a deeper understanding of what it means to be a writer. He acknowledges the inevitability of failure in expressing one’s ideas perfectly but emphasizes the importance of the journey itself. Just as the tortoise in the famous fable did not achieve victory through speed but through perseverance, writers continue to engage with language, celebrating the process rather than fixating solely on the results.

In conclusion, Riley Strait’s reflections serve as a reminder of the rich tapestry woven by career choices and creative expression. He encourages aspiring writers to embrace their unique paths, even if they diverge from conventional expectations. As he navigates his own journey in the realm of writing, Strait illustrates how the challenges of communication can lead to profound insights and connections that resonate beyond words.

As an Arts & Entertainment Editor for The News-Letter, Strait continues to share narratives that encourage readers to ponder their own pursuits and the meanings behind them, reminding us all that the journey is as important as the destination.