Hi! My name is Emma. I'm currently an undergraduate transfer student pursuing a degree in Theatre Arts at UC San Diego. I grew up in Altadena and love being a born-and-raised Californian. I'm deeply committed to my path now, but there was a time when it wasn't a given that I would graduate from high school. I struggled with undiagnosed ADHD and autism throughout most of my primary and secondary education. When I landed at a school with a robust and intimate theater program, I was finally able to thrive, graduating as a part of the National Honor Society. I earned my AA in Theater at an intensive conservatory program while tutoring children and adult English language learners. My original research has won regional awards and enabled me to work in big and small theaters across Los Angeles County. In the future, I hope to pursue graduate school. I have a particular interest in using theater as a tool for healing from trauma, and in including it in curriculums to provide ways for kids to feel safe and seen. My dream is to make the stage a haven for another generation of students with learning disabilities. However, the Eaton fire has made it more difficult for me to fund my education. I'm so grateful for the opportunity to pursue college, and appreciate every bit of support that I get along the way.