My name is Aniah O’Neal, not to be confused with Shaquille O’Neal. I may not be dunking basketballs, but I’m here to shoot for my dreams and make a big impact in my own way! I'm 16, a rising junior, and Autistic. As a teenager on the Autism Spectrum, academic success and communication haven’t always come easy for me. Communication is important because I need to effectively communicate in school, in future jobs, and with my family. I have learned to find my voice, built lasting friendships, and proved to myself that no challenge is too great when I'm surrounded by support and encouragement. I have also found great success exploring food, cooking and in the career field of Culinary Arts. I know my dreams are within reach with hard work, persistence, and positivity!! If I can dream it, I can be it! I have always enjoyed cooking with my Mom. Some of my earliest childhood memories are in the kitchen stirring, mixing, sifting and of course taste testing. In 4th grade, students were assigned a video project and asked to teach their classmates something new and exciting. My video did not demonstrate how to score the most points on the most popular video game, or the coolest features of a new toy, I selected to demonstrate how to fry an egg. I distinctly remember the joy and pride I felt as my classmates watched in awe as I led in the kitchen using the stove, which the majority of my classmates were forbidden to use. I have always enjoyed cooking and the joy and satisfaction that it brings to others. I am currently taking cooking classes led by a classically trained Chef for young people like me. I am interested in a Culinary Arts career because it challenges me to be creative, think outside of the box, and be a leader in the kitchen. I don't allow self-doubt or the opinions of others define what I can or cannot achieve. I dream of attending Texas State Technical College and majoring in Culinary Arts. After completing my degree in Culinary Arts I have plans to pursue and complete the Disney Culinary Program. This could allow me to further my career progression in Culinary Arts, Hospitality, Restaurant Management, and/or Tourism. All of my college tours have included colleges offering cutting edge Culinary Arts certification and degree programs. I believe every space in our community should be welcoming and celebrate differences. People of all backgrounds, abilities, and cultures should feel seen, valued, and included. Cooking and Culinary Arts affords that. Initially, I plan on giving back to my community by serving as a Child Nutrition Manager and provide nutritious and balanced meals for children and youth. Secondly, I would like to partner with school districts and offer healthy cooking classes for minority students in hopes of inspiring them to adopt healthier lifestyles through cooking and exploring careers in Culinary Arts. Thirdly, I would like to establish a scholarship fund for high school or college students on the Autism Spectrum desiring to pursue careers in Culinary Arts.