I don't need academic degrees to tell you I'm a professional writer. We who have been scribbling since childhood makes us all experts, its what you choose to write that makes you unique. You dont have to be crafty with words, just write the damn thing. The fundamentals of language and style are important but whoi cares how fluffy your words are, can you tell a story? I'm influenced by many African American Authors. I write because I'm a multi tasking artist  who can fictionalize just about anything. I paint as well. I'm under a pen name now. I once wrote under my given name, Zulma E. Brooks back in 2002. It's been a while and I've gone through somethings. Working on self publishing all of my work. I'm writing a novel now. 

My greatest achievement was surviving the hood. I'm certified in speaking my mind and my rewards are in Heaven. Other than that, check out my two poetry books, still writing something novel worthy.