As someone who is blind, I understand the challenges that come with navigating the world without sight. It can be difficult to find information, communicate effectively, and access physical spaces that are not designed with blind individuals in mind. However, I have also learned to embrace my uniqueness and use it as a source of strength. Growing up as the oldest of four girls, I felt a strong sense of responsibility to set a good example for my siblings. I knew that I had the opportunity to be the first in my family to go to college, and I worked hard to make that dream a reality. When I finally received my acceptance letter, I was overjoyed, but I also felt a deep sense of responsibility to use my education to give back to my community. There are many ways that I plan to give back to my community as a blind college graduate. One of the most important is through advocacy work. I want to use my voice and my experiences to raise awareness about the challenges faced by blind individuals and to advocate for policies and practices that promote equality and accessibility. This could involve working with local or national organizations, speaking at events, or even writing articles or blog posts. Another way that I plan to give back is through mentorship. I know that I would not have been able to succeed in college without the support and guidance of mentors who believed in me and helped me navigate the challenges that I faced. I want to pay that forward by serving as a mentor to other blind students or young people who may be struggling to find their way. Whether it's providing academic support, offering advice and guidance, or simply being a sounding board, I believe that mentorship can make a real difference in the lives of those who are just starting out. Finally, I want to give back by being an example of what is possible. As a blind person who has successfully navigated the challenges of higher education, I believe that I can inspire others to pursue their dreams and achieve their goals. By sharing my story and my experiences, I hope to encourage others to believe in themselves and to persevere in the face of adversity. In conclusion, being blind and the first in my family to attend college have both given me unique perspectives on life and a sense of responsibility to give back to my community. Through advocacy work, mentorship, and leading by example, I hope to make a positive impact on the world around me and inspire others to do the same.

Recovery means a lot to me, both on a personal level and as a general concept. To me, recovery is about overcoming obstacles and challenges, and ultimately becoming a stronger, more resilient person as a result. On a personal level, I've experienced several periods of recovery in my life. I've struggled with mental health issues, including depression and anxiety, and have had to work hard to overcome these challenges. For me, recovery has meant learning coping strategies, seeking support from others, and taking care of myself both physically and mentally. It hasn't always been easy, but I'm proud of the progress I've made and the person I've become as a result. But recovery isn't just about personal struggles. It can also apply to larger societal issues, such as recovering from natural disasters or overcoming social injustice. In these cases, recovery is about coming together as a community to support one another and rebuild what has been lost. To me, recovery is about hope and resilience. It's about recognizing that even in the darkest of times, there is always a way forward. It's about taking small steps towards healing and growth, even when it feels like an uphill battle. Ultimately, recovery is a reminder that we are capable of overcoming even the toughest of challenges. It's a testament to the power of human resilience and the strength of the human spirit. And for me, that's something truly inspiring and worth striving for.

As a first-generation Filipino-American and a first-generation college student, pursuing higher education has been both challenging and rewarding. Add to that the fact that I am blind, and the journey has been even more complex. However, my desire to prove myself and set an example for my younger sisters and other individuals with disabilities has driven me to pursue college and strive for success. Growing up, I often felt like an outsider. As a Filipino-American, I struggled to fit in with both the Filipino and American cultures. As someone with a disability, I faced additional obstacles in navigating the world around me. However, I refused to let these challenges define me. Instead, I used them as motivation to push myself further and achieve my goals. My decision to pursue higher education was not an easy one. With my disability, there were many doubts and uncertainties about my ability to succeed in college. However, I was determined to prove to myself and others that I am capable of achieving great things. I wanted to break the stereotype that individuals with disabilities cannot excel academically. Throughout my college journey, I have faced numerous challenges. One of the biggest obstacles has been the lack of accessibility on campus. It is frustrating to encounter barriers that prevent me from accessing the same resources as my sighted peers. However, I have learned to advocate for myself and seek out accommodations that allow me to fully participate in my courses. Despite the challenges, my college experience has been incredibly rewarding. I have had the opportunity to meet and learn from individuals from diverse backgrounds, which has broadened my perspective and enriched my education. Additionally, I have been able to pursue my passion for helping others by volunteering with organizations that support individuals with disabilities. One of my career goals is to become a rehabilitation counselor. I want to help individuals with disabilities overcome their own obstacles and become independent. I believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to live a fulfilling life, regardless of their circumstances. As someone who has experienced firsthand the challenges that come with having a disability, I am passionate about advocating for the rights and needs of individuals with disabilities. Through my pursuit of higher education, I hope to set an example for my younger sisters and other individuals with disabilities. I want to show them that anything is possible if you are willing to work hard and persevere. I also hope to inspire others to pursue their passions and make a positive impact on the world. In conclusion, being a first-generation Filipino-American, a first-generation college student, and a person with a disability has presented unique challenges in my pursuit of higher education. However, my desire to prove myself, set an example for others, and make a positive impact on the world has driven me to overcome these challenges and strive for success. I believe that with hard work and determination, anything is possible, and I am excited to see what the future holds.

Filipino culture to me is a beautiful blend of various influences from our rich history, diverse ethnic groups, and the various cultures that have come in contact with the Philippines over the years. As a Filipino, I have always been proud of my heritage and the many unique traits and practices that define us as a people. One of the things that I appreciate most about Filipino culture is our adaptability. Filipinos are known for being resilient and resourceful in the face of adversity. We have endured natural disasters, economic challenges, and even foreign colonization, yet we have always managed to bounce back and thrive. This adaptability is evident in the way we have integrated foreign cultures into our own, creating a unique blend of traditions that is uniquely Filipino. Another trait that defines Filipino culture is our openness to new ideas and perspectives. We are a curious people, always eager to learn from others and explore new horizons. This openness has allowed us to embrace new technologies, global trends, and even alternative ways of thinking. As a result, we have become a melting pot of ideas and cultures, constantly evolving and adapting to the changing times. Filipinos are also known for their adventurous spirit. We love to explore new places, try new things, and take risks. Whether it's climbing mountains, diving into the ocean, or simply trying out exotic cuisine, Filipinos are always up for an adventure. This adventurous spirit is reflected in our love for travel and exploration, as well as our willingness to take on new challenges and pursue our dreams. Respect is another cornerstone of Filipino culture. We place great importance on showing respect to our elders, our fellow citizens, and even to the environment around us. This respect is manifested in the way we treat others, in the way we care for our surroundings, and in the way we honor our traditions and customs. Filipinos are known for their warmth, hospitality, and kindness, traits that are deeply rooted in our culture. As a Filipino, I embody the values and principles that define our culture. I believe in the importance of cultural diversity and human development, and I strive to promote these ideals in my own life and in my interactions with others. I am proud of my heritage and the unique blend of traditions that make us who we are as a people. I am open-minded and adaptable, always eager to learn from others and explore new horizons. I am adventurous and willing to take risks, unafraid of the unknown. And above all, I am respectful of others, always treating people with kindness, compassion, and understanding. In conclusion, Filipino culture is a rich and vibrant tapestry of influences that have shaped us into the people we are today. We are a resilient, adaptable, and open-minded people, always willing to embrace new ideas and explore new horizons. We are adventurous and respectful, with a deep appreciation for our traditions and customs. As a Filipino, I am proud of my heritage and the values that define our culture, and I strive to embody these principles in everything I do.

As a blind individual, I knew that there were going to be obstacles that I would have to overcome. When I was first diagnosed with blindness, I didn't know how to handle the news. I felt like I was alone, and I didn't know what to do. However, I quickly realized that I didn't have to face these challenges alone. I surrounded myself with other blind people and allies of blind people. They helped me see that my blindness was not something to be ashamed of. I learned that there are many resources available for the blind, and there are many successful blind individuals who have accomplished great things. Being part of this community gave me the strength and courage to face my challenges head-on. One of the most significant challenges I faced was gaining independent living skills. I knew that I needed to learn how to do things for myself, such as cooking, cleaning, and navigating the world around me. This is when I discovered the Colorado Center for the Blind. At this center, I was able to gain the skills I needed to live independently. I learned how to use a cane, read braille, cook, and even ski! It was an amazing experience, and it gave me the confidence I needed to tackle the world on my own. After completing my training at the Colorado Center for the Blind, I decided that I wanted to further my education. I enrolled in a local community college and started working towards an associate's degree in psychology. This was a challenging experience because the materials were not always accessible to me, but I never gave up. I learned how to advocate for myself, and I found allies within the school who were willing to help me succeed. As I approached the end of my associate's degree, I began to think about my future. I knew that I wanted to continue my education, but I wasn't sure what I wanted to do. After much thought and consideration, I decided that I wanted to pursue a master's degree in rehabilitation counseling. This field would allow me to help other individuals with disabilities overcome their challenges and live fulfilling lives. My ultimate goal is to get a doctorate in psychology. This will allow me to become a licensed psychologist and help even more people. I want to specialize in rehabilitation psychology, which will give me the tools I need to help individuals with disabilities navigate their challenges and lead fulfilling lives. After completing my doctorate, I hope to obtain a rehabilitation psychology post-authorized fellowship. This fellowship will give me even more experience and allow me to help even more people. In conclusion, being blind has presented me with many challenges, but I have overcome them by surrounding myself with other blind people and allies of blind people. I gained the skills I needed to live independently by attending the Colorado Center for the Blind, and I have continued my education to become a rehabilitation counselor and eventually a licensed psychologist. I am excited about my future and the opportunity to help others with disabilities overcome their challenges and live fulfilling lives.

As a visually impaired caregiver for a blind senior, my experiences have been both challenging and rewarding. It has impacted my personal goals journey and identity in ways that I never could have anticipated. At the start of my caregiving journey, I was filled with a sense of uncertainty and anxiety. I was unsure whether I would be able to provide adequate care to someone who was completely blind when I had limited vision myself. However, I quickly learned that I was more capable than I had initially thought. I learned to rely on my other senses and to find alternative ways of performing tasks that required sight. This experience has taught me that, despite my disability, I can still be a valuable and effective caregiver. One of the most significant impacts that caregiving has had on my personal goals journey is that it has given me a sense of purpose. Before becoming a caregiver, I struggled to find meaning in my life. However, caring for someone who is completely dependent on me has given me a sense of responsibility and a feeling of accomplishment. I have found that helping someone in need has given me a sense of fulfillment that I never experienced before. On a practical level, my caregiving experience has also taught me valuable life skills. For example, I have learned how to manage medications, perform daily tasks without sight, and navigate the healthcare system. These skills will be useful not just in my role as a caregiver, but also in other areas of my life. Another significant impact that caregiving has had on me is that it has allowed me to see the world from a different perspective. As a visually impaired person, I have faced many challenges and limitations in my life. However, caring for a blind senior has given me a deeper understanding of what it means to be blind. It has also made me more empathetic towards others who are facing challenges in their lives. This experience has taught me to be more patient, understanding, and compassionate towards others. Finally, caregiving has had a significant impact on my identity. Before becoming a caregiver, I primarily identified as a visually impaired person. However, my caregiving experience has taught me that I am more than just my disability. It has shown me that I am capable of providing care and support to others, and that I can make a meaningful difference in someone's life. In conclusion, my caregiving experience has been both challenging and rewarding. It has taught me valuable life skills, given me a sense of purpose, and allowed me to see the world from a different perspective. Most importantly, it has shown me that, despite my disability, I am capable of providing care and support to others

Growing up, I struggled to find my place in the world as a blind person. I often felt like I was being held back by my disability, and I was frustrated by the lack of opportunities available to me. However, I was determined to change my situation and to make the most of my life. I knew that I needed to advocate for myself also to gain the skills and knowledge that would help me succeed. With this in mind, I made the decision to attend the Colorado Center for the Blind. This was a big step for me, as I was leaving my comfort zone and embarking on a new journey. But I was determined to make the most of this opportunity. I was eager to build my skills as much as I could. At the Colorado Center for the Blind, I learned a variety of non-visual skills. For example, how to navigate unfamiliar environments, how to use adaptive technology, and how to cook and clean independently all while being under sleep shades. These skills were crucial in helping me become more confident and independent. They paved the way for me to advocate for myself in new and exciting ways. Once I graduated from the Colorado Center for the Blind, I was eager to put my new skills and knowledge to use. I started by advocating for myself academically, by seeking out resources and support to help me succeed in my classes. I joined clubs on campus, such as a co-ed service fraternity and a club for students with divers abilities.  I also took on leadership positions within these organizations. For example I was the treasurer for Diverseability club. These experiences allowed me to develop my leadership skills, to build my network, and to make new friends. In addition to advocating for myself academically, I also took steps to advocate for myself professionally. I took on a on-campus job, where I was able to gain valuable work experience and to develop my professional skills. This job also gave me the opportunity to interact with a diverse group of people, and to learn from my colleagues and mentors. Throughout my journey, I learned that advocacy is a key component of success, especially for blind individuals. By advocating for myself, I was able to gain access to resources and opportunities that would have otherwise been unavailable to me. I was also able to build my confidence and independence, and to gain a sense of control over my life. In conclusion, being blind can be challenging, but it doesn't have to limit your potential or your ability to succeed. By advocating for yourself and seeking out new opportunities, you can gain the skills and knowledge you need to overcome obstacles and to achieve your goals. Whether you're pursuing academic, professional, or personal goals, remember that you have the determination, resourcefulness, and initiative to make your dreams a reality.

Climbing is a sport that requires both physical and mental strength, and it can be incredibly rewarding both personally and professionally. For me, climbing has been a passion for many years. It all started when I went to the Colorado Center for the Blind and did outdoor rock climbing for the first time. This experience was a confidence-building exercise, and I was hooked from that moment on. As a visually impaired individual, I have had to overcome many obstacles in my life. Climbing has been an activity that has helped me push past these barriers and become more confident in myself and my abilities. When I am climbing, I am completely focused on the task at hand, and my disability becomes a non-issue. I have learned to trust my instincts and rely on my body in a way that I never thought possible. The experience of climbing outdoors is truly transformative. It requires an immense amount of mental and physical fortitude to ascend a rock face, and the rewards are immense. The feeling of accomplishment that comes from reaching the top of a climb is something that cannot be replicated in any other activity. There is a sense of pure joy and liberation that comes from conquering a challenge that once seemed insurmountable. This scholarship will help me pursue higher education because it will give me the financial resources I need to continue my education and achieve my goals. I have always been passionate about learning, and I have a deep desire to use my education to make a positive impact on the world. With this scholarship, I will be able to pursue my academic goals without the burden of financial stress. One of my main goals is to become an advocate for individuals with disabilities. I believe that everyone should have the opportunity to live a fulfilling and meaningful life, regardless of their abilities. By pursuing higher education, I will be able to develop the skills and knowledge I need to make a difference in this area. I plan to study social work, which will give me the tools to advocate for the needs of those who are often overlooked in our society. In addition to my academic pursuits, I will also continue to pursue my passion for climbing. I believe that climbing has taught me valuable life lessons that I can apply to any situation. The mental and physical discipline required to climb can be translated into any other aspect of life. By continuing to climb, I will continue to grow and develop as a person.

Growing up, I struggled to find my place in the world as a blind person. I often felt like I was being held back by my disability, and I was frustrated by the lack of opportunities available to me. However, I was determined to change my situation and to make the most of my life. I knew that I needed to advocate for myself also to gain the skills and knowledge that would help me succeed. With this in mind, I made the decision to attend the Colorado Center for the Blind. This was a big step for me, as I was leaving my comfort zone and embarking on a new journey. But I was determined to make the most of this opportunity. I was eager to build my skills as much as I could. At the Colorado Center for the Blind, I learned a variety of non-visual skills. For example, how to navigate unfamiliar environments, how to use adaptive technology, and how to cook and clean independently all while being under sleep shades. These skills were crucial in helping me become more confident and independent. They paved the way for me to advocate for myself in new and exciting ways. Once I graduated from the Colorado Center for the Blind, I was eager to put my new skills and knowledge to use. I started by advocating for myself academically, by seeking out resources and support to help me succeed in my classes. I joined clubs on campus, such as a co-ed service fraternity and a club for students with divers abilities.  I also took on leadership positions within these organizations. For example I was the treasurer for Diverseability club. These experiences allowed me to develop my leadership skills, to build my network, and to make new friends. In addition to advocating for myself academically, I also took steps to advocate for myself professionally. I took on a on-campus job, where I was able to gain valuable work experience and to develop my professional skills. This job also gave me the opportunity to interact with a diverse group of people, and to learn from my colleagues and mentors. Throughout my journey, I learned that advocacy is a key component of success, especially for blind individuals. By advocating for myself, I was able to gain access to resources and opportunities that would have otherwise been unavailable to me. I was also able to build my confidence and independence, and to gain a sense of control over my life. In conclusion, being blind can be challenging, but it doesn't have to limit your potential or your ability to succeed. By advocating for yourself and seeking out new opportunities, you can gain the skills and knowledge you need to overcome obstacles and to achieve your goals. Whether you're pursuing academic, professional, or personal goals, remember that you have the determination, resourcefulness, and initiative to make your dreams a reality.

Being Filipino has had a significant impact on my life and career goals. As a Filipino, I was raised with strong cultural values such as respect for elders, close family ties, and a strong work ethic. These values have shaped me into the person I am today and have influenced my career aspirations. Growing up, I was taught the importance of education and hard work. My parents instilled in me the belief that with determination and hard work, I could achieve anything I set my mind to. This mindset has driven me to pursue higher education and to strive for success in my chosen career path. Furthermore, the close-knit nature of Filipino families has also influenced my life and career goals. As a Filipino, I value strong relationships and connections with those around me, and I strive to create a supportive network of colleagues, friends, and family. This value has led me to seek out careers that allow me to work collaboratively with others and to make a positive impact on the lives of those around me. The Philippines has a rich cultural heritage, and being Filipino has also made me proud of my cultural identity. I have a deep appreciation for the arts, music, and literature, and I believe that these forms of expression can bring people together and promote understanding and empathy. This appreciation has influenced my career goals by leading me to pursue careers in the arts, education, and social activism, where I can use my skills and passions to make a difference in the world. Additionally, being Filipino has also made me aware of the social and political issues that affect my country and my people. I have a strong sense of civic duty and a desire to use my education and skills to make a positive impact in my community. This has influenced my career goals by leading me to consider careers in public service, where I can use my knowledge and experience to help others and to promote positive change. In conclusion, being Filipino has had a profound impact on my life and career goals. The values and cultural heritage of the Philippines have shaped me into the person I am today and have driven me to pursue a career that is meaningful, impactful, and fulfilling. I am proud to be Filipino, and I will always strive to use my education and skills to make a positive difference in the world.

I deserve this scholarship because, I’m resilient. When I was 15 years old, I was diagnosed with retinitis pigmentosa and was declared legally blind. I fell into a depression after this diagnosis and felt hopeless for my future. However, that changed when I became part of a mentoring group for blind high school and college students. In that program I met a positive blind role model and was told that blindness is not a characteristic that defines me and that I can live the life I want. This role model told me that I can attend a training center that can help me gain independent skills and be comfortable with my blindness. My proudest achievement so far is graduating from the independent training program at the Colorado Center for the Blind. It was not an easy task getting there. I had a lot of resistance from the vocational rehabilational services. They wanted me to attend the Virginia in state rehabilitation program. I however did not want to attend the in state program because I believe that it wouldn’t challenge me or allow me to be comfortable and accepting of my blindness. I felt the Colorado Center for the Blind had more to offer in the areas I wanted to improve on in myself. Due to the push back I received from vocational rehab I had to write justification letter stating why the Colorado Center for the Blind is different from the Virginia state program and what outcomes I can receive from it. I also reached out to the director of the Colorado Center for the Blind. She had the opportunity to speak at my meetings with the vocational rehabilation services as well as write another justification letter on my behalf. I was determined to go to the center and was very persistent in making sure that I wasn’t backing down from my decisions. I wrote in my justification letter that I had the right to chose due to the Rehabilation Act of 1973 and would take legal action if necessary. Overall, if I hadn’t done my research and reached out to current and former students as well as the director of the Colorado Center for the Blind I wouldn’t be able to say that I am a proud graduate of the Colorado Center for the Blind.

screen reader reads out loud all the text on screen. Blind and low vision users can use it to navigate websites, applications and games by using a few key strokes or hand gestures. The user can decrease or increase the speed of the speech. Being a blind college student myself, a screen reader is definitely helpful when it comes to navigating My classes and doing homework. It can also help me connect with others since it allows me to have better access to my phone and social media. Overall a screen reader can help level the field for the blind community.

At the Colorado Center for the Blind I had the opportunity to mentor new students. I would contact them before they arrive in Colorado answering any questions or concerns they had. I would also get to know them a little bit on a personal level and share my experiences with them. Once they arrive in Colorado I had the privilege of showing them how to get around and get familiar with how the program runs. Once the students are more familiar with the program and comfortable navigating around I started to let them do their own things. Periodically, I would check in on them and sometimes plan events and outings with them. For example, a mentee and I planned a trip to go grocery shopping together. On our way back we ended up on the wrong bus and had to figure out our way back. Together we teamed up to solve our issue and learned from each other how to use the travel skills that we have learned from the program. It took us longer than it did to go grocery shopping and come back home but it was definitely a fun and great learning experience. It gave me the chance to teach what I know to my mentee but also to learn from my mentee as well.

My proudest achievement so far is graduating from the independent training program at the  Colorado Center for the Blind. It was not an easy task getting there. I had a lot of resistance from the vocational rehabilational services. They wanted me to attend the Virginia in state rehabilitation program. I however did not want to attend the in state program because I believe that it wouldn’t challenge me or allow me to be comfortable and accepting of my blindness. I felt the Colorado Center for the Blind had more to offer in the areas I wanted to improve on in myself. Due to the push back I received from vocational rehab I had to write justification letter stating why the Colorado Center for the Blind is different from the Virginia state program and what outcomes I can receive from it. I also reached out to the director of the Colorado Center for the Blind. She had the opportunity to speak at my meetings with the vocational rehabilation services as well as write another justification letter on my behalf. I was determined to go to the center and was very persistent in making sure that I wasn’t backing down from my decisions. I wrote in my justification letter that I had the right to chose due to the Rehabilation Act of 1973 and would take legal action if necessary. Overall, if I hadn’t done my research and reached out to current and former students as well as the director of the Colorado Center for the Blind I wouldn’t be able to say that I am a proud graduate of the Colorado Center for the Blind.

One issue that the disability community is facing is access to public transportation. One idea to address this issue is providing information that can be used and accessed by everyone. Another idea is to train the all staff members of public transportation agencies on how to help and interact with people with disabilities. A third idea is planning accesssibility from the very beginninging and having the input of disabled people listened and implemented. I go to my local transit agency and hold advocacy meetings and regards to accessibility and public transportation.

Higher education is important because, it can lead to a higher paying salary. Second, it can can increase chance of employment. Having a college degree can also lead to career stability. Third, higher education can lead to higher job satisfaction. My psychology degree can help me land my dream job. Getting a college degree that I’m interested in learning about will allow me to view my work as fun and enjoyable and not as a job that I need to do in order to survive. Higher education can also help me prepare for the future. College can provide practical skills such as time management and soft skills. It’s also a way to build relationships and have the opportunity to network and connect with professionals. Lastly, higher education is important to me because, it’s one of my goals to graduate from college and helps me in becoming a social worker.

My favorite Disney character is Tiana from the princess and the frog.Tiana is a very consistent character. As well as the fairly stereotypical Disney Princess traits of being good, kind and sweet, she's also hard-working, realistic, ambitious and incredibly focused, with a very strong sense of right and wrong.Unlike any other White princesses, Tiana has a job and gets paid. It seems as though the other White princesses are granted high status whereas Tiana is forced to work for it. Tiana is not granted magic to further her goals but rather she is encouraged to work hard for her dream life.She believes in achieving her dreams through hard work and never giving up. She works hard to save the money for her restaurant, she doesn't give up when she is outbid on the building (or when she becomes a frog), and she is even able to inspire a work ethic in the lay-about party boy, Prince Naveen.

MY mental health is important because, I wouldn’t be able to achieve my goals and live a adventurous life. If I didn’t prioritize my mental health, I wouldn’t be able to experience being an independent blind individual. I would still be depressed and living in a unsupportive and toxic environment. I wouldn’t have met other blind people and find out that blind people can achieve anything. I wouldn’t be able to live up to my potential and show others that I can do it. My mental health is my main motivator in getting things done and proving myself that I can do it. It shows me that I’m resilient and I get things accomplish when I put my mind to it. I have a few ways in keeping my mental health healthy. The number one thing that I do when I’m feeeling down is talking to friends, family and my boyfriend. The second thing that I do is cry. I believe crying helps relieve and stress and that it’s okay to cry and let it out. The third thing I do is sing and dance. I love to sing especially Disney songs. Singing helps lift my mood and helps channel my emotions into the song. Fourth, I take walks around my neighborhood or sit at a park and enjoy the outdoors. Lastly, I either do aerial hoop or pole dance. I enjoy the feeling of soaring through the air when I’m on the hoop or doing tricks on the pole. I always feel empowered, strong, confident and sexy every time I’m done pole dancing or aerial dancing.

My name is Casey Reyes and I’m a junior at the University of Mary Washington. I’m majoring in psychology and minoring in urban studies. After finishing undergraduate degree, I plan on going to graduate school for social work and urban planning. I’m the first in my family to get an associates degree and go to a four year university. I’m also first generation Filipino American. When I was 15 years old, I was diagnosed with a progressive eye disease known as retinitis pigmentosa. During my early childhood I moved quite a bit. I was born in Saipan then I moved to the Philippines and then moved to Guam to live with my grandparents. At the age of 3, I moved to California and started elementary school. Between the ages of 4 and 8, I moved a couple of times in California and lived in Oregon once. Eventually my mom got remarried to my step dad who was in the military and we moved on a military base. Overall, my early childhood consist of a lot of moving and experiencing new cultures and environments. As a visually impaired individual, I plan to make a positive impact by breaking down the barriers of inaccessibility in the workplace. I want to show people that blind people can work and get things done. I want to show that things can be done differently and still get the same outcome. Also, I want to be a positive role model for other blind people. I want to help other individuals with disabilities connect to resources that can help improve their lives

     When I was 15 years old, I was diagnosed with a progressive eye disease known as retinitis pigmentosa. I was devastated to say the least and fell into a depression. Throughout high school and community college I felt hopeless for my future and didn’t think I can have a fulfilling life as a blind person. Even though I received orientation and mobility training and learned how to read the alphabet in braille, I still wasn’t confident in myself and my future. It was especially difficult when I started community college because, I didn’t know my rights as a disabled college students and didn’t where and how to receive academic accommodations. No one helped me on how to transition from high school to college and what resources that can help me become independent. Even my parents didn’t help me in navigating college.However, that all changed when I graduated from community college and transferred to the my current university.      Eventually, I got fed up with the way I was living my life and took matters in my own hands. I remembered learning about the National Federation of the Blind when I was in high school and decided to further look into it and later contacted people within the organization. From there I was connected to other blind people in my local area and was part of a peer mentoring group for blind students. I’ve also met another blind students at my current university and that’s when I found about vocational rehabbilitation and that they can help me in achieving my goals and become independent. Through the peer mentoring program, I learned that I can go to a blindness training center in Colorado and learn independent living skills. I knew from then on I must atttend the training center and nothing was going to stop me from going there. With grit and being persistence I eventually got to the training center and graduated from the program.      Looking back at what I have gone through and achieved, there is one thing that I have wished could of gone differently. I wished that someone was there to guide me in the process of coping with my disability and find resources that can help me become independent. Going through this experience inspired me to help those with disabilities cope, find resources that can make them contributing members of society, confident in themselves and live a fulfilling life. No one should being through such a life changing experience alone and I want to be the one that can helped them because no one was there for me. I want to become a social worker and be the advocated that individuals with disabilities need. I want justice, diversity, equality and inclusion for everyone and pursuing a career in social work will help do that.

     When I was 15 years old, I was diagnosed with a progressive eye disease known as retinitis pigmentosa. I was devastated to say the least and fell into a depression. Throughout high school and community college I felt hopeless for my future and didn’t think I can have a fulfilling life as a blind person. Even though I received orientation and mobility training and learned how to read the alphabet in braille, I still wasn’t confident in myself and my future. It was especially difficult when I started community college because, I didn’t know my rights as a disabled college students and didn’t where and how to receive academic accommodations. No one helped me on how to transition from high school to college and what resources that can help me become independent. Even my parents didn’t help me in navigating college.However, that all changed when I graduated from community college and transferred to the my current university.      Eventually, I got fed up with the way I was living my life and took matters in my own hands. I remembered learning about the National Federation of the Blind when I was in high school and decided to further look into it and later contacted people within the organization. From there I was connected to other blind people in my local area and was part of a peer mentoring group for blind students. I’ve also met another blind students at my current university and that’s when I found about vocational rehabbilitation and that they can help me in achieving my goals and become independent. Through the peer mentoring program, I learned that I can go to a blindness training center in Colorado and learn independent living skills. I knew from then on I must atttend the training center and nothing was going to stop me from going there. With grit and being persistence I eventually got to the training center and graduated from the program.      Looking back at what I have gone through and achieved, there is one thing that I have wished could of gone differently. I wished that someone was there to guide me in the process of coping with my disability and find resources that can help me become independent. Going through this experience inspired me to help those with disabilities cope, find resources that can make them contributing members of society, confident in themselves and live a fulfilling life. No one should being through such a life changing experience alone and I want to be the one that can helped them because no one was there for me. I want to become a social worker and be the advocated that individuals with disabilities need. I want justice, diversity, equality and inclusion for everyone and pursuing a career in social work will help do that.

     When I was 15 years old, I was diagnosed with a progressive eye disease known as retinitis pigmentosa. I was devastated to say the least and fell into a depression. Throughout high school and community college I felt hopeless for my future and didn’t think I can have a fulfilling life as a blind person. Even though I received orientation and mobility training and learned how to read the alphabet in braille, I still wasn’t confident in myself and my future. It was especially difficult when I started community college because, I didn’t know my rights as a disabled college students and didn’t where and how to receive academic accommodations. No one helped me on how to transition from high school to college and what resources that can help me become independent. Even my parents didn’t help me in navigating college.However, that all changed when I graduated from community college and transferred to the my current university.      Eventually, I got fed up with the way I was living my life and took matters in my own hands. I remembered learning about the National Federation of the Blind when I was in high school and decided to further look into it and later contacted people within the organization. From there I was connected to other blind people in my local area and was part of a peer mentoring group for blind students. I’ve also met another blind students at my current university and that’s when I found about vocational rehabbilitation and that they can help me in achieving my goals and become independent. Through the peer mentoring program, I learned that I can go to a blindness training center in Colorado and learn independent living skills. I knew from then on I must atttend the training center and nothing was going to stop me from going there. With grit and being persistence I eventually got to the training center and graduated from the program.      Looking back at what I have gone through and achieved, there is one thing that I have wished could of gone differently. I wished that someone was there to guide me in the process of coping with my disability and find resources that can help me become independent. Going through this experience inspired me to help those with disabilities cope, find resources that can make them contributing members of society, confident in themselves and live a fulfilling life. No one should being through such a life changing experience alone and I want to be the one that can helped them because no one was there for me. I want to become a social worker and be the advocated that individuals with disabilities need. I want justice, diversity, equality and inclusion for everyone and pursuing a career in social work will help do that.

     When I was 15 years old, I was diagnosed with a progressive eye disease known as retinitis pigmentosa. I was devastated to say the least and fell into a depression. Throughout high school and community college I felt hopeless for my future and didn’t think I can have a fulfilling life as a blind person. Even though I received orientation and mobility training and learned how to read the alphabet in braille, I still wasn’t confident in myself and my future. It was especially difficult when I started community college because, I didn’t know my rights as a disabled college students and didn’t where and how to receive academic accommodations. No one helped me on how to transition from high school to college and what resources that can help me become independent. Even my parents didn’t help me in navigating college.However, that all changed when I graduated from community college and transferred to the my current university.      Eventually, I got fed up with the way I was living my life and took matters in my own hands. I remembered learning about the National Federation of the Blind when I was in high school and decided to further look into it and later contacted people within the organization. From there I was connected to other blind people in my local area and was part of a peer mentoring group for blind students. I’ve also met another blind students at my current university and that’s when I found about vocational rehabbilitation and that they can help me in achieving my goals and become independent. Through the peer mentoring program, I learned that I can go to a blindness training center in Colorado and learn independent living skills. I knew from then on I must atttend the training center and nothing was going to stop me from going there. With grit and being persistence I eventually got to the training center and graduated from the program.      Looking back at what I have gone through and achieved, there is one thing that I have wished could of gone differently. I wished that someone was there to guide me in the process of coping with my disability and find resources that can help me become independent. Going through this experience inspired me to help those with disabilities cope, find resources that can make them contributing members of society, confident in themselves and live a fulfilling life. No one should being through such a life changing experience alone and I want to be the one that can helped them because no one was there for me. I want to become a social worker and be the advocated that individuals with disabilities need. I want justice, diversity, equality and inclusion for everyone and pursuing a career in social work will help do that.

My name is Casey Reyes. My name means a blind confident and resilient individual person Nothing or no one will get in my way of what I want to achieve in life and that includes my disability. My disability is not a characteristic that defines me but instead gives me strength and motivates me to do better in life. My name is important because it is part of my identity and I am proud of it.

plan to make a positive impact on the world by helping individuals with disabilities become more confident in themselves and be independent. I want to connect people with disabilities to resources that can allow them to be more independent and contributing members of society. As an individual with a visual impairment, I had no clue how to navigate the world and become a confident contributing member of society. I believe no one should go through hardships that I experience and want to be the mentor and inspiration for those who are going through the same thing. Individuals with disabilities can help diversify society and can provide multiple perspectives and experiences. We just have to give them a chance and be open minded.

As a individual with a disability, I want to inspire and mentor other individuals with disabilities. Also, I want help people with disabilities connect with local and national resources. I want to break down the barriers of apolism and have an equal opportunity for all people with disabilities.

As a daughter who’s been through my entire step dad’s military career, I’m forever grateful for the men and women who sacrificed their lives for the greater good. Growing up as a military child I saw the good and bad experiences that service members and veterans had to go through. Seeing this experiences first hand made me want to give back to military and veteran community. I want to connect veterans to local, state and federal resources. I especially want to better the mental health care system for veterans, knowing that a lot of veterans have some form of PTSD or struggling with depression and alcohol abuse. I want to become a social worker and work for the Veterans Administration and be the person to help veterans live a healthy and productive life.