He was placed in the special education system. But, Christopher Zara’s so-called “behavioral issues” continued so, he got kicked out of high school in the 11th grade. Zara still went on to get his GED and at 32 he found himself working at a picture frame shop. He didn't enjoy his job. Occasionally he reflected on the few teachers that told him he was a good writer. Those embers of encouragement were enough to spark a flame of hope and pushed him to pursue writing. 

Listen in as he talks about getting kicked out of high school, overcoming addiction, finding a book that helped him to get his career in journalism started. He shares insights on building a portfolio without a degree, and his early work experiences, his book 'Uneducated', and handling imposter syndrome.

Timestamps:

(0:00) Introduction to the episode and guest, Christopher Zara

(4:43) The changing landscape of journalism and the shift towards independent journalism

(6:06) Building a portfolio in journalism and salary ranges

(10:29) Need resume help?

(11:28) High school experience: Behavioral issues, getting kicked out and getting his GED

(12:43) Embers of Encouragement from teachers: The reason Christopher believed he could write

(13:39) After high school: Drugs, overcoming addiction and other work experiences

(16:33) How an unpaid internship got him a foot in the door

(18:44) Lessons from the first job

(20:26) Learning about the online journalism industry and transitioning to larger organizations

(27:44) Reflecting on career decisions and overcoming the 'imposter syndrome'

(33:12) How the applicant tracking systems affected his job search because he didn’t have a degree

(34:51) Skills-based hiring is on the rise vs the strong branding of college

(36:08) The purpose of Christopher's book 'Uneducated' and the importance of viewing education holistically

Support/Contact Christopher:

• Linktree: https://linktr.ee/christopherzara 
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopherzara/

Books and resources mentioned in this podcast:

•  Resume course: https://bit.ly/podcastpca 
• Uneducated by Christophe4r Zara: https://amzn.to/46Jv515   

Need career or resume advice? Follow and/or connect with Jonaed Iqbal on LinkedIn.

• LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/JonaedIqbalND

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Remember, no degree? No problem! Whether you're contemplating college or you're a college dropout, get started with your no-degree job search at nodegree.com.

Need career or resume advice? Follow and/or connect with Jonaed Iqbal on LinkedIn.

- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonaed

Connect with us on social media!

- Instagram: @nodegreecareers

- TikTok: @nodegree

Thank you for sponsoring our show. If you'd like to support our mission to end the stigma and economic disparity that comes along with not having a college degree, please share with a friend, or drop us a review on Apple Podcast.

Remember, no degree? No problem! Whether you're contemplating college or you're a college dropout, get started with your no-degree job search at NoDegree.com.