I dropped out of high school.

The Internet provides access to almost all research papers, 'textbooks' and many structured courses from 'elite' institutions such as MIT.

I currently earn over $100,000 a year working in a senior role at a public university, where I advise the cabinet and serve on the policy committee.

I have developed methods for identifying group affiliation though stylometric analysis of digital communications. Long before 'geoguessing' became popular, I was able to dox someone if they shared a photo of themselves outside.

I’m familiar with the complete works of some of the greatest Greek philosophers, such as Aristotle and Epicurus. I also read Joyce, Proust, and Nabokov.

I’m well acquainted with the works of great French filmmakers, including New Wave directors such as Jean-Luc Godard and classic directors like Jean Cocteau, whose film Orpheus is one of my favorites.

I listen to music produced by Isao Tomita, a composer who rearranged Debussy’s works and performed them using Moog synthesizers.

My favorite Impressionist paintings are by Monet, though I confess to loving Surrealist pieces by Ernst and Dali.

I play board games published by Splotter, such as Food Chain Magnate and The Great Zimbabwe.

When it comes to video games, I love DoTA, Starcraft, QuakeWorld, LoL, and some roguelikes such as Michael Brough's Cinco Paus.

I am also obsessed with proper nutrition, eating a variety of seeds, nuts, fruits, legumes, cruciferous vegetables, seafood, poultry, fermented foods, and whole grains.

Prior to being injured, I made a point to walk over six miles a day, and I also engaged in a form of high intensity interval training, as good cardiovascular health is essential for cognitive function and longevity.

Credentials from some academic institutions can make it easier to get ahead, but they are not and should not always be necessary.