I would have them read To Kill a Mockingbird for several reasons. First, it addresses topics that are a part of our American history that we frequently forget occurred. It is important to understand the events of the past so that we can take care to avoid them in the future. There are also several important values illustrated in the book, particularly in the story of Scout visiting an elderly neighbor whom she views as unpleasant. Atticus provides background on why the neighbor is acting in that way, which reminds us to consider everyone's story and remember that all we can see of their life is but a sliver of what they've been through. The neighbor also shows redemption at the end of her life, which may give hope to those who read it and are struggling. As a classic novel and a staple of English classes everywhere, it incorporates literary devices that can be studied and discussed academically for decades. Finally, it shows the importance of critical thinking and the courage to resist popular opinion. During the trial, it is incredibly obvious to readers that the accused man could not have done the things he is accused of. But because of his race and the social politics of the town, he is convicted. This story drives home the importance of standing your ground for what you think is right even if the majority of people oppose you. Atticus shows incredible bravery, and the commentary by Scout makes his actions easily accessible. I recommend To Kill a Mockingbird to everyone.

I am pursuing studies at Capella to take a national exam to become a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst, which will enable me to take an active leadership role in advocating for individuals with disabilities. I currently work as a teacher at a private school for children with autism. My time in a school setting has allowed me to build my intervention skillset and brainstorm various developmental activities. However, as a teacher I am unable to conduct assessments or maintain active correspondence with children’s caregivers. By beginning my studies, I have already been able to gain access to a portion of these responsibilities that were previously unavailable to me. I am now being supervised in my delivery of services as well as forming closer relationships with children’s families. By becoming a school BCBA, I will not only be able to create programming for disabled individuals, but also oversee its delivery. Additionally, I myself am a disabled veteran. Though the field of applied behavior analysis tends to be associated with autism, the overarching goal is to improve socially significant behaviors. My particular disability does impact my ability to socialize, and I have spoken to several veterans who have also had this experience. We are extremely fortunate in this regard, but the principles of ABA are not just for neurodiverse individuals. Though right now I am able to serve as an informal resource for veterans, since I am not licensed I am unable to offer professional services or write referrals to other resources. Becoming a BCBA will enable me to take an even more active role in a community that is very close to me. It will certainly be very rewarding to not only know where a person should go for advocacy, but be able to take an active professional role as they work to live the best life they can. In conclusion, my studies at Capella and becoming a BCBA will allow me to take a more active role in advocating for not only children but also community members and veterans like myself. I will learn the skills necessary to develop and maintain a professional presence. Ten years from now I see myself connected to a vast network of families and professionals, and down the road I would love to open my own clinic for neurodiversity advocacy. I am hopeful that I am laying the foundation now to make these dreams a reality!

I am pursuing studies at Capella University in Applied Behavior Analysis to take a national exam to become a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst, which will enable me to take an active leadership role in advocating for individuals with disabilities. I currently work as a teacher at a private school for children with autism. My time in a school setting has allowed me to build my intervention skillset and brainstorm various developmental activities. However, as a teacher I am unable to conduct assessments or maintain active correspondence with children’s caregivers. By beginning my studies, I have already been able to gain access to a portion of these responsibilities that were previously unavailable to me. I am now being supervised in my delivery of services as well as forming closer relationships with children’s families. By becoming a school BCBA, I will not only be able to create programming for disabled individuals, but also oversee its delivery. On a more personal note, I myself am a disabled veteran. Though the field of applied behavior analysis tends to be associated with autism, the overarching goal is to improve socially significant behaviors. My particular disability does impact my ability to socialize, and I have spoken to several veterans who have also had this experience. The principles of ABA are not just for neurodiverse individuals. Though right now I am able to serve as an informal resource for veterans, since I am not licensed I am unable to offer professional services or write referrals to other resources. Becoming a BCBA will enable me to take an even more active role in a community that is very close to me. It will certainly be very rewarding to not only know where a person should go for advocacy, but be able to take an active role as they work to live the best life they can. To conclude, my studies at Capella and becoming a BCBA will allow me to take a more active role in advocating for not only children but also community members and veterans like myself. I will learn the skills necessary to develop and maintain a professional presence. Ten years from now I see myself connected to a vast network of families and professionals, and down the road I would love to open my own clinic for neurodiversity advocacy. I am hopeful that I am laying the foundation now to make these dreams a reality!

I am pursuing studies in Applied Behavior Analysis at Capella to take a national exam to become a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst, which will enable me to take an active leadership role in advocating for individuals with disabilities. I currently work as a teacher at a private school for children with autism. My time in a school setting has allowed me to build my intervention skillset and brainstorm various developmental activities. However, as a teacher I am unable to conduct assessments or maintain active correspondence with children’s caregivers. By beginning my studies, I have already been able to gain access to a portion of these responsibilities that were previously unavailable to me. I am now being supervised in my delivery of services as well as forming closer relationships with children’s families. By becoming a school BCBA, I will not only be able to create programming for disabled individuals, but also oversee its delivery. In addition, I myself am a disabled veteran. Though the field of applied behavior analysis tends to be associated with autism, the overarching goal is to improve socially significant behaviors. My particular disability does impact my ability to socialize, and I have spoken to several veterans who have also had this experience. The principles of ABA are not just for neurodiverse individuals. Though right now I am able to serve as an informal resource for veterans, since I am not licensed I am unable to offer professional services or write referrals to other resources. Becoming a BCBA will enable me to take an even more active role in a community that is very close to me. It will certainly be very rewarding to not only know where a person should go for advocacy, but be able to take an active role as they work to live the best life they can. Ten years from now I see myself connected to a vast network of families and professionals, and down the road I would love to open my own clinic for neurodiversity advocacy.

Wurlitzer I sit in the dusty corner Of a barely-there little shop I am ready to work I could come alive on a dime It’s always 30, 40, 50 years past And patrons converse for the sake of the day I am ready to work I could come alive on a dime But today the words are not the same Information is now online It is not done to look someone in the eye They know you’d rather face a screen I am waiting for a chance to come alive To turn back the hands of time I know I have more to say I could come alive on a dime For now I wait so patiently For the next tide to change I will always be here I can come alive on a dime And that is not just hype I require only change My name is Wurlitzer I hope you will remember me

My best back-to-school tip is that no matter how much planning you do, it's impossible to know how the school year will go. Things are going to go wrong. Don't get down on yourself for it! Learn, take it one day at a time, and before you know it the year will be over! IG @kuriouskat5295438

I really liked the Little Mermaid as a kid, because she was so curious about the world on land and not afraid to take big risks just to learn something new!

I would not hesitate to give the full amount to my mom. Since losing her husband (my dad) unexpectedly last year, she has been suddenly thrust into the role of breadwinner and single parent. It had been over 30 years since she lived alone, and Dad had taken care of absolutely everything for her. As their only child, I strongly believe that it is my duty to ensure she stays as comfortable and happy as possible. I video chat with her on a weekly basis and send care packages every few months, and we talk on the phone as well to share good news. With $1,000 I would be able to fulfill at least one or two dreams of hers: to travel and to have her own hot tub! Mom would never ask for anything, so I would surprise her and offer to oversee construction or to go off on an adventure with her. My mother is the kindest, most caring person anyone will every meet, and she deserves only good things. I cannot erase the loss she has felt, nor can I myself ever completely fill the void of Dad's passing. However, I can and should do everything in my power to see her smile.

I am pursuing studies at Capella to take a national exam to become a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst, which will enable me to take an active leadership role in advocating for individuals with disabilities. I currently work as a teacher at a private school for children with autism. My time in a school setting has allowed me to build my intervention skillset and brainstorm various developmental activities. However, as a teacher I am unable to conduct assessments or maintain active correspondence with children’s caregivers. By beginning my studies, I have already been able to gain access to a portion of these responsibilities that were previously unavailable to me. I am now being supervised in my delivery of services as well as forming closer relationships with children’s families. By becoming a school BCBA, I will not only be able to create programming for disabled individuals, but also oversee its delivery. In addition, I currently work part-time at a local bakery. While I am passionate about working at school and helping my children succeed, I sometimes forget that the terminology used in our field is unusually difficult to understand. My time in a customer service role reminds me to bring humility and humanity to my professional presence. I intentionally interact with children, neurotypical and neurodiverse alike, with the goal of maximizing the impact I can have within a very short time. This works keeps me grounded and gives me perspective that every child lives and interacts within a larger community. I am able to see resources, or lack thereof, that may be most relevant to my particular patrons. In this context, I am challenged to apply my further study into the fundamentals of psychology and behavior analysis to a fast-paced context where I definitely have incomplete information about my patrons. This role has helped me build confidence in taking action in the face of uncertainty. As I learn more about forming relationships with families and caregivers, I am confident I will be able to further refine this skillset and learn the deeper philosophy behind techniques I am developing and utilizing. Finally, I myself am a disabled veteran. Though the field of applied behavior analysis tends to be associated with autism, the overarching goal is to improve socially significant behaviors. My particular disability does impact my ability to socialize, and I have spoken to several veterans who have also had this experience. The principles of ABA are not just for neurodiverse individuals. Though right now I am able to serve as an informal resource for veterans, since I am not licensed I am unable to offer professional services or write referrals to other resources. Becoming a BCBA will enable me to take an even more active role in a community that is very close to me. It will certainly be very rewarding to not only know where a person should go for advocacy, but be able to take an active role as they work to live the best life they can. In conclusion, my studies at Capella and becoming a BCBA will allow me to take a more active role in advocating for not only children but also community members and veterans like myself. I will learn the skills necessary to develop and maintain a professional presence. Ten years from now I see myself connected to a vast network of families and professionals, and down the road I would love to open my own clinic for neurodiversity advocacy. I am hopeful that I am laying the foundation now to make these dreams a reality!

Last year at this time, it had been five months since the unexpected death of my father, and two weeks since being dumped by the man I thought I was going to marry on the day I got out of the hospital. Today, I am in the best shape of my life, both physically and mentally. I teach special needs children, am pursuing further studies to become a behavior analyst, and am the happiest I've been in several years. When we first lost my father, it was shocking. Dad was the type to continue pushing through anything. He would hardly ever call off work and he was making plans to do things at the age of 100. Our family consisted solely of Mom, Dad, and me. It had been over 30 years since Mom had lived alone, and Dad had taken care of just about everything for her. Meanwhile, I had been living several states away working as a warehouse manager. I was living with a man who I loved very much, and we were approaching our one-year anniversary. Following a two-week stay with Mom, we relocated to live with her for several months. Our family was in chaos, and unbeknownst to me, trying to move forward as a three-person unit so soon after a great loss would not work out. My boyfriend chose to break up with me and move back to his home state a day before our year anniversary, the same day I had been released from a voluntary self-admission to acute psychiatric care. Our lives move forward according to our own definitions. I could choose to focus on the bad, but today I see the good. I am happy, healthy, and able to weather any storm. Thank you for teaching me that, Dad!

During weekends, I offer my services as a volunteer mover to help families with special needs get settled into their new neighborhoods. As a special education teacher myself, as well as a disabled veteran, I have a privileged understanding of the challenges faced by even "simple" tasks like asking for food. The majority of the kids I teach are nonverbal, meaning they use methods other than traditional speech to communicate. Many of the families I have worked with have voiced to me that they feared judgment and biases from moving companies due to the neurological differences in their household. One mother of an adult special needs child absolutely lit up when I informed her of my background. Her daughter was confined to a wheelchair and nonverbal. Without being asked or told, I described the reasoning behind many of our moving choices to her daughter. I made sure to also use age-appropriate language, crack jokes, and make plenty of eye contact. I still keep in touch with her mom, who has expressed to me that after a 12-hour drive, it was incredibly refreshing to be welcomed so openly. I plan on continuing to volunteer as a mover for as long as I am physically capable.

I am pursuing studies at Capella to take a national exam to become a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst, which will enable me to take an active leadership role in advocating for individuals with disabilities. I currently work as a teacher at a private school for children with autism. My time in a school setting has allowed me to build my intervention skillset and brainstorm various developmental activities. However, as a teacher I am unable to conduct assessments or maintain active correspondence with children’s caregivers. By beginning my studies, I have already been able to gain access to a portion of these responsibilities that were previously unavailable to me. I am now being supervised in my delivery of services as well as forming closer relationships with children’s families. By becoming a school BCBA, I will not only be able to create programming for disabled individuals, but also oversee its delivery. In addition, I currently work part-time at a local bakery. While I am passionate about working at school and helping my children succeed, I sometimes forget that the terminology used in our field is unusually difficult to understand. My time in a customer service role reminds me to bring humility and humanity to my professional presence. I intentionally interact with children, neurotypical and neurodiverse alike, with the goal of maximizing the impact I can have within a very short time. This works keeps me grounded and gives me perspective that every child lives and interacts within a larger community. I am able to see resources, or lack thereof, that may be most relevant to my particular patrons. In this context, I am challenged to apply my further study into the fundamentals of psychology and behavior analysis to a fast-paced context where I definitely have incomplete information about my patrons. This role has helped me build confidence in taking action in the face of uncertainty. As I learn more about forming relationships with families and caregivers, I am confident I will be able to further refine this skillset and learn the deeper philosophy behind techniques I am developing and utilizing. Finally, I myself am a disabled veteran. Though the field of applied behavior analysis tends to be associated with autism, the overarching goal is to improve socially significant behaviors. My particular disability does impact my ability to socialize, and I have spoken to several veterans who have also had this experience. The principles of ABA are not just for neurodiverse individuals. Though right now I am able to serve as an informal resource for veterans, since I am not licensed I am unable to offer professional services or write referrals to other resources. Becoming a BCBA will enable me to take an even more active role in a community that is very close to me. It will certainly be very rewarding to not only know where a person should go for advocacy, but be able to take an active role as they work to live the best life they can.

I am pursuing studies at Capella to take a national exam to become a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst, which will enable me to take an active leadership role in advocating for individuals with disabilities. I currently work as a teacher at a private school for children with autism. My time in a school setting has allowed me to build my intervention skillset and brainstorm various developmental activities. However, as a teacher I am unable to conduct assessments or maintain active correspondence with children’s caregivers. By beginning my studies, I have already been able to gain access to a portion of these responsibilities that were previously unavailable to me. I am now being supervised in my delivery of services as well as forming closer relationships with children’s families. By becoming a school BCBA, I will not only be able to create programming for disabled individuals, but also oversee its delivery. In addition, I currently work part-time at a local bakery. While I am passionate about working at school and helping my children succeed, I sometimes forget that the terminology used in our field is unusually difficult to understand. My time in a customer service role reminds me to bring humility and humanity to my professional presence. I intentionally interact with children, neurotypical and neurodiverse alike, with the goal of maximizing the impact I can have within a very short time. This works keeps me grounded and gives me perspective that every child lives and interacts within a larger community. I am able to see resources, or lack thereof, that may be most relevant to my particular patrons. In this context, I am challenged to apply my further study into the fundamentals of psychology and behavior analysis to a fast-paced context where I definitely have incomplete information about my patrons. This role has helped me build confidence in taking action in the face of uncertainty. As I learn more about forming relationships with families and caregivers, I am confident I will be able to further refine this skillset and learn the deeper philosophy behind techniques I am developing and utilizing. Finally, I myself am a disabled veteran. Though the field of applied behavior analysis tends to be associated with autism, the overarching goal is to improve socially significant behaviors. My particular disability does impact my ability to socialize, and I have spoken to several veterans who have also had this experience. The principles of ABA are not just for neurodiverse individuals. Though right now I am able to serve as an informal resource for veterans, since I am not licensed I am unable to offer professional services or write referrals to other resources. Becoming a BCBA will enable me to take an even more active role in a community that is very close to me. It will certainly be very rewarding to not only know where a person should go for advocacy, but be able to take an active role as they work to live the best life they can. In conclusion, my studies at Capella and becoming a BCBA will allow me to take a more active role in advocating for not only children but also community members and veterans like myself. I will learn the skills necessary to develop and maintain a professional presence. Ten years from now I see myself connected to a vast network of families and professionals, and down the road I would love to open my own clinic for neurodiversity advocacy. I am hopeful that I am laying the foundation now to make these dreams a reality!

I would definitely say that my favorite scientific discovery is stem cells! They are so exciting and we've only just scratched the surface of what they can do. With them it's conceivable that we could grow healthy organs to help cure conditions like diabetes. We can use them to grow bones and help individuals impacted by osteoporosis. Plus, theoretically we could use them to grow cells that retain nutrients better and help people with chronic health conditions. We could even grow singular neurons to observe how brain cells react to stimuli without having to use a bulky scanner or PET liquid. The possibilities for medicine and public health are enormous! If I knew more about this field, my first task would be learning how to regrow healthy heart muscle. I lost my dad to heart failure, so if I could help even one person to not have to experience that loss, I feel like I would be giving back to society in one of the best ways I can think of.