I got my first TV writing job at 55. It was hard being the oldest person in the room — but I'm glad I never gave up.

Craig Williams says getting his first job came down to a 20-year-old connection, who hadn't even read his work before reaching out.

Courtesy of Crystal Blake

• Craig Williams had been trying to break into film and TV for decades.
• Williams says he often found himself the oldest person in the room as he pursued opportunities.
• Writing what he knew and making personal connections ultimately led to his first TV job at age 55.

This as-told-to essay is based on a conversation with Craig Williams...