Open Draft - with Fabio Cerpelloni Writing Was the Thing That Made Me Want to Live Again: with Pro Writer Jennifer Walker
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Dec 19, 2023 Guest Jennifer Walker, a suicidal scientist turned professional travel writer, shares her journey from hitting rock bottom during her PhD to becoming a successful writer. She discusses pitching, tips to improve writing, and challenges faced by non-native English writers. The podcast explores imposter syndrome, finding solace in writing groups, embracing the writer identity, and aspirations to become a novelist. Overall, a reflection on Jennifer's inspiring journey from an existential crisis to a full-time writer is discussed.
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Therapy Led To Writing That Saved Her Life
- Jennifer Walker left a PhD in physics after a nervous breakdown and used writing as a lifeline to rebuild purpose and identity.
- A casual conversation with a Swiss entrepreneur convinced her to accept the writer identity, which triggered practical steps toward publication.
Former Academic Label Fuels Imposter Syndrome
- Academic credentials can trigger impostor feelings even after success in a new field because others still categorize you by your former label.
- Jennifer felt science background excluded her from jobs that requested humanities degrees despite strong writing achievements.
Suicide Attempt Sparked Therapy And Reporting
- While doing a PhD Jennifer suffered severe anxiety and made an impulsive suicide attempt, which led her to seek therapy in Madrid.
- Her viral Quartz article later combined personal testimony and reporting to highlight systemic mental-health issues in academia.