Chapter 1: The Joy of Learning and Writing

In recent weeks, my focus has been on exploration and discovery. I find immense joy in diving into new topics, interests that spark my curiosity, and various Biblical themes. Initially, my goal of earning online wasn’t tied to writing in the way we engage on Medium today. Instead, it was a learning journey about how to generate income. At first, the thrill was palpable as a coach guided me in promoting the photography business for Mom and Sons Photography. However, as funds dwindled, we faced the challenge of securing new resources.

We explored grants, but I was unsure how to navigate that process. I reached out for information via email but received no response. A loan was briefly considered, yet uncertainty regarding everyone's commitment to a collaborative effort left me feeling uneasy. Eventually, I found an opportunity to invest in acquiring new skills tailored for the online landscape.

I quickly began sharing social media marketing content on platforms like Facebook and Instagram, which became a highlight of my journey.

However, I soon realized that the infrastructure for collecting emails and facilitating other business functions was lacking. This setback prompted collaboration with Jakob, who possesses more technical expertise than I do. Despite his limited understanding of some aspects, he is dedicated to learning and improving our setup, which is an ongoing endeavor.

At this juncture, Medium has become a significant player in my journey. It has rekindled my enthusiasm for writing. I have always aspired to become a published author. In fact, I penned an entire romance novel during my middle school years, receiving feedback and suggestions for edits from classmates. Looking back, I wonder why I didn't forge closer bonds with those peers instead of opting for solitude. The initial answer that comes to mind is a lack of self-worth—a struggle I continue to address.

• Engaging in your passions is a constructive way to enhance this.

Motivated by this insight, I delved deeper into what Medium has to offer. The help section is rich with valuable information, promoting an inclusive atmosphere. They reward writers for producing authentic essays, providing financial incentives and opportunities for increased visibility. Importantly, they discourage spammy content—no clickbait allowed!

The diversity of topics covered on Medium is impressive.

Everyone is welcome here, and that is a beautiful aspect!

As I take my writing more seriously, I celebrate the fact that Medium is where I earned my first $1.02 online. It was a delightful surprise! Engaging with essays from other writers on the platform has opened my eyes to new ideas and experiences. The content is captivating and varied, which naturally piques my curiosity about Medium.

Interestingly, sales-driven writing is not the path to income generation on Medium. Sharing knowledge on selling could be different, as it doesn't directly push for purchases. This non-commercial approach is commendable on the platform. It allows me to explore subjects within the realm of Applied Behavioral Science, a field I studied at the University of Arizona Global Campus.

Nonetheless, it’s crucial to remember that writing transcends financial gain. Family and friends may not always engage with your work, but that doesn't preclude them from reading your articles. You can promote your stories however you like, such as by sharing “friend links” that grant free access to your articles. I often do this for my mom, who possesses a talent for words and has shown interest based on what I've shared with her. This connection can inspire us both if she chooses to pursue it further.

Writing is exhilarating. I once initiated a newsletter for my church, aiming to explore subjects that deepen our understanding of God. The feedback was positive, but my lack of consistency led to its discontinuation. Perhaps I can revive that project in the future.

Remember my earlier mention of self-worth being cultivated through pursuing passions? Currently, my goal is to publish essays consistently—aiming for at least three a week. Including Biblical topics is part of my plan, as this subject has long captivated me.

My renewed enthusiasm for Biblical discussions was sparked by a YouTube video about the April 8 eclipse. Amidst the numerous interpretations circulating, I question the expertise of those commenting on spiritually sensitive topics. The final chapter of Revelations reminds us that our deeds and intentions will ultimately be judged, a sobering thought indeed.

Writing, as you can see, is more than a hobby; it's a lifelong passion. I’m thrilled to share my experiences as a Professional Student of Life. This journey encompasses more than academic knowledge or religious exploration; it invites an appreciation of life in all its complexities, including a love for fiction.

Hello, I’m Allison, the voice behind this corner of Mom and Sons. Thank you for joining me in this exploration. As a Professional Student of Life, I'm eager to hear what inspires you or what topics you wish to delve into further.

Please feel free to express your support with claps, suggest an encore in the comments, or offer constructive feedback. We’re all here to learn from one another.

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Chapter 2: Transitioning to the Professional World

Learning to navigate the shift from student life to professional responsibilities can be daunting. In this video, Soham Wagh shares valuable insights on this transition, providing guidance to help ease the journey.

As a student affairs professional, the journey is both rewarding and challenging. This video explores the dynamics of this role and offers a glimpse into the everyday experiences of those in the field.