SprinkL3, if you are interested in going to a medical or science writing program, I highly suggest that you apply to a reputable program. I looked around and found some good programs. But, these programs are highly competitive and want stellar credentials as well as someone who can write well. The best program I found is UC Santa Cruz's science writing program. You don't need a doctorate but need research experience. Also, you need GRE's and letters of recommendation. It is one of the best programs in science writing and if you are a resident of California, the tuition is rather cheap compared to other programs. I am into medical writing so want to go to a program with an option for a hospital experience. Also, I want to go to a program that is doable anywhere around the world. Thus, the Johns Hopkins program is the most suitable for me. If you are interested in applying here as well, I would get in touch with the program coordinators to see if you are competitive. You seem to like writing so why don't you look into it? The tuition here is about 35, 000 dollars for the whole program, that is if you don't need room and board. I
am applying for next year and am trying to get my application together. I think the program is also very competitive so I don't want to apply if I don't have my act together. I also don't want to just get into the program but also want to be able to finish it given that I have to take out loans to pay for it. The other good program in the USA is MIT's program and there is also one in North Carolina which is just as good. I don't know if you want to do science writing or just want to write. Science/ medical writing is technical writing. You have to be familiar with the jargon of the field you choose to work in. Also, science/ medical writing is hard to break into. Finally, the jobs are mostly freelance jobs and don't pay a steady income unless you are established.

SprinkL3, since you are writing all over this website, maybe you should look into writing as a job. You don't need to be a science/ medical writer but can do other things with a writing degree, such as teaching or editing. I like writing as well but am not so creative. I also like the sciences and am familiar with the medical field since I used to be a doctor. You are not too old yet so I highly encourage you to look into writing or science writing. I am a little older than you and am pursuing this path also. I would not let your past determine your future. If you want to write for a living, then please look for means to do it.

My philosophy is if I can do it, so can you. If you don't want to incur a huge loan, then you can still write for a living by just applying for jobs and having a portfolio of your writings. I may or may not apply still after all of this. I have to see how my motivation holds up and see if it is feasible. But, since you enjoy writing, I would look into getting paid to write or at least see if you can make a living from it. Best wishes!