Okay, so you’re in federal prison or going soon. So what! Let me give you some advice: find a way to. contribute so the time doesn’t just pass you by. This is the time to start working on yourself, understanding how you got here, and building a plan for life after prison.
The good news? There’s a system that makes this easier. You can create a profile on Prison Professors Talent to document your progress and show others (judges, probation officers, even future employers) what you’re doing to prepare.
Start by Understanding Your Story
The first step is figuring out how you ended up in this situation. What decisions brought you here? What can you learn from them?
This isn’t about feeling sorry for yourself or making excuses—it’s about owning the choices that led you to prison.
Reading helps. Choose books that make you think. They could be about leadership, ethics, or someone else’s story of overcoming challenges. I would start with Earning Freedom.
Build a Profile on Prison Professors Talent
Once you start reading and working on yourself, you’ll need a place to keep track of your progress. Again, that’s where Prison Professors Talent comes in.
This isn’t just some online form to fill out—it’s a real tool you can use to show people you’re not wasting your time. Use it to:
- Document the books you’ve read and the lessons you’ve learned.
- Upload book reports that connect your reading to your own story.
- List any skills you’re developing or classes you’re taking while inside.
Think of your profile as your proof. It shows that you’re taking your time seriously and making an effort to prepare for life after release.
Why Book Reports Matter
When you read a book, don’t just close it and move on. Write a report about it. A book report doesn’t have to be complicated—it’s just you explaining what the book taught you and how it applies to your life.
Here’s why this matters:
- Judges and probation officers care. If they see you’re actively working to grow and reflect, it can help shape their opinion of you.
- Your family sees your effort. Sharing these reports can help rebuild trust and show them you’re using your time wisely.
- Employers want proof of effort. When the time comes to get a job, showing that you’ve been productive and intentional about your growth can set you apart.
Book reports also keep you engaged. Prison can feel like an endless loop of boredom, but when you’re reading, writing, and sharing, you’ve got a purpose.
Contributing While You’re Inside
Even while you’re in prison, you can contribute to the world. Sharing your book reports or other writing isn’t just about proving something to others—it’s about reminding yourself that you still have something to offer.
Maybe your reports inspire someone else inside. Maybe they give your family hope. Maybe they’re the reason a judge or probation officer gives you a chance.
The point is this: by staying active and productive, you’re not letting prison define you.
Take the First Step
Here’s what I’d do if I were in your shoes:
- Sign up for Prison Professors Talent and start building your profile.
- Find books that make you think—about your choices, your future, or the skills you want to develop.
- Write reports on what you read and upload them to your profile. Share them with your family, probation officer, or anyone else who can see the work you’re doing.
This isn’t about passing the time—it’s about using it. When you’re ready to move on from this chapter of your life, you’ll have something to show for it.
If you’re not sure where to start, let me know. Our weekly webinar covers recommendations or ideas for your profile.
Justin Paperny