This story is available exclusively to Business Insider subscribers. Become an Insider and start reading now.

Since childhood, I have harbored a profound aspiration to become a print journalist. Even during my high school years, I faced skepticism from several teachers who urged me to consider alternative career paths, citing the competitive nature of the media industry. However, my resolve only strengthened, propelling me to chase this dream with unwavering determination.

In pursuit of my passion, I enrolled in a double degree program that combined journalism and business management, ultimately graduating in 2007. Contrary to the doubts expressed by others, I was fortunate enough to secure a full-time cadetship at a newspaper soon after completing my studies. I attribute my success in landing this position to three crucial factors.

1. Gaining Extensive Work Experience
During my university years, I seized every opportunity to gain practical experience in journalism. While my peers were enjoying leisurely days at the beach or hanging out at the movies, I dedicated my time to working in a newsroom. Although my degree mandated a minimum of one internship, I was determined to exceed that requirement by pursuing multiple opportunities. This involved stepping out of my comfort zone, which at times felt daunting and intimidating.

The work experience I obtained proved invaluable; by the time I graduated, I had a collection of published articles under my belt and a robust portfolio showcasing my abilities to potential employers. In my sole job interview for the cadetship, the chief of staff prioritized my body of work over my academic grades, not even inquiring about my GPA. It was clear that my proactive approach to gaining experience had paid off handsomely.

2. Persevering Through Setbacks
Living on the Gold Coast of Australia, I was determined to work for the only daily newspaper in the area, the Gold Coast Bulletin. At the time, the paper offered a scholarship program specifically designed for high school graduates, enabling them to alternate between work and study for four years, with the promise of a journalism position upon completion. Unfortunately, despite my enthusiasm and application, I did not secure the scholarship.

Rather than allowing this disappointment to deter me, I remained resolute. The saying goes that there are many pathways to the same destination, and I found this to be true. After four years in university, I reapplied for a position at the Gold Coast Bulletin in 2007. When I reached out to the chief of staff to inquire about job openings, he initially informed me that none were available. Undeterred, I took the initiative to drop off my resume and portfolio at the reception desk. To my delight, I received a call later that day inviting me for an interview.

That meeting marked a turning point in my career; the chief of staff offered me a position on the copy desk, which entailed answering phones and covering local youth sports achievements. Although this wasn't my dream role, I was grateful for the opportunity, recognizing it as a stepping stone that opened doors in my journalistic journey.

3. A Realistic Approach to Career Progression
While the position on the copy desk was not my ultimate career goal, I understood the importance of starting my journey somewhere. I had also come to terms with the possibility that if I could not secure a role at the Gold Coast Bulletin, I would be willing to relocate elsewhere to begin my journalism career. This flexibility and realistic outlook were vital as I navigated my early professional life.

My tenure at the Gold Coast Bulletin lasted three years, after which I embarked on international adventures while working various odd jobs. In 2014, I found my way back to a newsroom in Melbourne as a print journalist. The following year, I took a bold step and established my own copywriting business. Today, I operate from home as a freelance writer, contributing articles on parenting, travel, and lifestyle topics to a diverse array of publications. Despite the changes in my career trajectory, my passion for writing remains as strong as ever.

I always encourage my children to reach for the stars and pursue their dreams, no matter how unattainable they may seem. I followed my aspirations and have never looked back.