For me, the real world intruded many decades ago now when I was entering the 7th grade. I had no idea what was coming. It was like my own personal plague. It would persist straight through high school.

As soon as public education finally spit me out, Uncle Sam began chasing my sorry behind around. He had a one-way ticket to the rice paddies of Viet Nam with my name on it. Fortunately (or unfortunately, depending on how you look at it) I managed to elude that old bugger. He was quick, but I had the devil on my side & so I was trickier!

Of course, this was the "hippie" generation; & we thought we were going to change the world too. But, in the end, it was the world that changed us. Consequently, the world still needs a bit of tinkering. I wish you great success in your quest!