Through the Eyes of a Storyteller

When I think about my passion for writing, it's impossible not to think of my aunt, who has always been an avid reader and writer. I remember visiting her as a child and seeing the stacks of books in her living room, and how she would always have a pen and paper nearby to jot down ideas. It was her influence that sparked my own interest in literature and writing.

From the time I was a child, I found myself captivated by the ability of words to transport me to another world, to make me feel things I had never felt before, and to challenge my perspectives and broaden my horizons. It was not until I had the opportunity to connect with a family member who was a successful writer that I realized that writing was not just a hobby or a passion, but a viable career path that I could pursue.

My cousin, who is a well-known novelist, has been an inspiration to me in many ways. From the time I was a child, I was always in awe of her ability to weave together intricate plots, complex characters, and vivid settings to create stories that were both entertaining and thought-provoking. As I grew older, I began to appreciate the sheer discipline and hard work that went into her craft. I saw how she would spend hours researching, drafting, and revising, always pushing herself to be better and to tell stories that truly mattered.

Through conversations with my cousin, I have gained valuable insights into the writing process and the publishing industry. I have learned about the importance of finding your voice as a writer, of honing your craft through practice and feedback, and of persevering in the face of rejection and criticism. My cousin has also shown me that writing is not just a solitary pursuit, but one that requires collaboration, support, and community. She has encouraged me to seek out writing groups, workshops, and mentorship opportunities, and has offered to provide me with guidance and feedback as I continue to develop my own writing skills.

As I look towards my future, I am excited about the prospect of pursuing a career in writing. I believe that the power of storytelling can change hearts, minds, and even the world, and I am eager to contribute my own voice to this ongoing conversation. I am confident that the creative writing program at Johns Hopkins University will provide me with the tools, mentorship, and community that I need to take my writing to the next level, and I am excited about the opportunity to learn from and collaborate with some of the most talented writers in the world.