It ain't easy to break out of a mold but if you do your work people will ultimately see what you're capable of. Too often people find it easier to make assumptions and stick with what they believe. They put you in a place and it makes their job easier. The good people constantly search for something different.
I used to love to draw. I didn't want to go to art class because I felt that would be too corny when I was young but architectural drafting was the cool thing to do because there was more precision. It taught me a lot about building and structures and doorways and frames and windowsills.