by 
The Reality Check
For a long time, I wore my degree like a badge of honor—and unknowingly, like a pair of handcuffs.
Graduating with a degree in pharmacy, it felt natural—even expected—that my writing career would revolve around healthcare. I had the credentials, the formal knowledge, and what many considered the “credibility” to write with authority in that space. It was a safe zone, familiar territory. And when I first entered the writing world, healthcare content seemed like the only logical path.
I didn’t know how the corporate world worked. I didn’t know how versatile writing could be. But I knew I had a pharmacy degree, and that became my compass. So I dove deep into health writing, embracing it fully. Not because I didn’t enjoy it—I did—but because I was subtly conditioned to believe that it was the only place I belonged.
The Invisible Cage of Qualifications
Over time, whenever I tried to explore other niches—be it SaaS (Software as a Service), fitness, or travel—I was often met with resistance.
“You don’t have a degree in that field,” editors and hiring managers would say.
At first, I took their words at face value. I let those comments sink in and shape my perception of what I could or couldn’t do. I believed that formal education was the sole ticket to credibility in any field of writing. Without a certificate, I feared I’d be seen as a fraud.
And that belief kept me stuck. Not due to a lack of interest, talent, or work ethic—but because I mistook permission for potential. I thought passion alone wasn’t enough.
The Moment Curiosity Grew Louder Than Doubt
But something inside me kept stirring.
I found myself spending hours reading about product-led growth strategies in SaaS. I’d lose entire evenings binge-watching travel documentaries or exploring culinary blogs from around the world. I was drawn to fitness trends—not just as a personal interest, but with the analytical curiosity of a writer.
Little by little, curiosity began to outweigh doubt. The more I explored these topics, the more I realized that expertise isn’t always rooted in a degree—it can also be built through experience, research, and consistent effort.
I began writing samples in these areas. I studied industry leaders, learned their language, observed their content styles, and practiced relentlessly. I networked, asked questions, and stepped into new niches—not with authority, but with genuine curiosity and a willingness to learn.
And guess what? It worked.
The Takeaway
You don’t need a degree to write like an expert. You need curiosity, discipline, and a desire to understand deeply. Writing is about clarity, connection, and conveying information in a way that adds value. And that skill can be honed across any industry—if you’re willing to learn.
Formal education can open doors, yes. But it’s not the only key. Passion, persistence, and adaptability often matter more in the long run.
So if you’re a writer standing at the edge of a new niche, wondering if you’re “qualified enough”—let curiosity be your guide. Authority doesn’t just come from degrees. It comes from the depth of your learning, the quality of your insights, and the courage to step into unfamiliar territory.
