In a reflective exploration of career aspirations and personal identity, sophomore Riley Strait from Olathe, Kansas, shares his unique journey and the complexities of choosing a professional path. In a recent column published on December 14, 2025, Strait candidly discusses his experiences with career aptitude tests and his eventual decision to pursue a degree in Writing Seminars and English, despite receiving recommendations for careers in the medical and funeral sectors.
Strait recalls taking a career aptitude test in middle school, which suggested he would excel as an OB/GYN, midwife, coroner, or funeral director. Each of these professions signifies pivotal moments in life—birth and death. Yet, Strait’s path diverged from these traditional roles, leading him to the realm of writing. He grapples with the perception that language, much like a “leaky ship,” often fails to convey thoughts and emotions accurately. He contemplates why writing, despite its inherent challenges, holds a special place in his heart.
Wrestling with Identity and Ambition
Throughout his narrative, Strait articulates the tension between societal expectations and personal desires. He recalls how adults expressed discomfort with the idea of a young boy aspiring to interact with death, while others pushed for more male involvement in women’s health. This societal dichotomy illustrates the challenges people face when pursuing unconventional paths.
Strait’s reflections extend beyond his personal experience to broader themes of communication. He acknowledges the difficulties of expressing oneself through written language and questions why society holds language arts in high esteem compared to non-verbal forms of expression like painting or music. He argues that while non-verbal arts may circumvent miscommunication, writers strive to bridge gaps in understanding, even if they often fall short.
“Just because the underdog only comes close to succeeding but ultimately fails doesn’t cause us to retire our loyalties,” Strait writes. His assertion reinforces the idea that the value of creativity lies not solely in success but in the earnest pursuit of connection through words.
The Unpredictability of Writing
Strait’s column also touches on the anxiety that accompanies the writing process. He likens this feeling to an “immortal snail,” a metaphor for the persistent self-doubt that often shadows creative endeavors. He expresses a desire for connections with his audience, even as he acknowledges the awkwardness of his own communication.
The writer’s journey, as Strait describes, is not merely about crafting perfect sentences but about engaging with the complexities of life. He recognizes that every attempt at expression carries the potential for misunderstanding, yet he remains committed to the craft. “I may never be an OB/GYN or midwife,” he concludes, “but I will always be a writer who awkwardly attempts to communicate.”
Riley Strait serves as the Arts & Entertainment Editor for The News-Letter, where his column “In Medias Res” invites readers into the depths of his reflections, often leaving them to ponder the nuances of language and life. His candid narrative highlights the importance of pursuing one’s passions, even in the face of societal expectations and self-doubt.
