I started writing for the same reason most people started - my teachers told me to.  I was given the same advice many young writers are given – write what you know.  At the time, I knew these things: I got nervous when I talked to girls, I didn’t like excess homework, I loved it when my parents left me home alone, and no matter how much Clearasil I used, I was going to have zits on my nose.  Thankfully, my knowledge (and my subject-matter) has vastly expanded.