Yes, it is possible to make 500k+ a year in your 20s, but it is not a common or easily achievable salary for most individuals at that age. Earning such a high income typically requires a combination of exceptional skills, education, experience, and being in the right industry or profession.

Here are a few potential paths that could lead to earning 500k+ a year in your 20s:

1. Entrepreneurship: Starting your own successful business can potentially generate significant income. However, building a profitable business often takes time, effort, and a unique idea or product. Examples of young entrepreneurs who have achieved high earnings include Mark Zuckerberg (founder of Facebook) and Evan Spiegel (founder of Snapchat).

2. High-demand professions: Certain professions, such as investment banking, management consulting, or specialized medical fields, offer the potential for high salaries early in one's career. These professions typically require advanced degrees, exceptional skills, and long working hours. For instance, investment banking analysts at top firms can earn six-figure salaries, including bonuses, straight out of college.

3. Tech industry: The technology sector is known for its high-paying jobs. Roles such as software engineering, data science, or product management can offer substantial salaries, especially at well-established companies or startups. However, these roles often require a strong technical background and relevant experience. For example, software engineers at top tech companies like Google or Facebook can earn salaries well above the 500k mark.

4. Professional sports or entertainment: Athletes, musicians, actors, or other entertainers can potentially earn millions of dollars in their 20s if they achieve significant success. However, breaking into these industries and reaching such high earnings requires exceptional talent, hard work, and often a stroke of luck.

It's important to note that while these paths offer potential for high earnings, they are not guaranteed for everyone. Success in any field requires a combination of skills, dedication, and often some degree of luck. It's also worth considering that earning a high income may not necessarily equate to financial happiness or fulfillment.

References:

• Forbes: "The World's Highest-Paid Athletes 2020" (https://www.forbes.com/athletes/list/#tab:overall)
• CNBC: "The 15 highest-paying jobs for young professionals" (https://www.cnbc.com/2020/07/31/15-highest-paying-jobs-for-young-professionals.html)
• Investopedia: "How Investment Bankers Really Make Money" (https://www.investopedia.com/articles/personal-finance/102015/how-investment-bankers-really-make-money.asp)