My ultimate goal is to build my education. School has always been very important to me. As a young adult, I’ve always had my mind set on one thing; school. Currently, I’m headed in my second year at Baton Rouge Community College. I’m determined to build my education to better my skills as I move forward to becoming a school counselor. I truly believe that having a good education is what makes you successful in life. With that being said, I’m just now starting this new chapter of my life. To become a successful school counselor takes years of school and dedication. I’m ready, I’ve been ready for this and Joe I’m here to build my future. Education is my priority; it’s the one thing that’ll make me stronger and successful. Building my education and future will hopefully impact our future generations that I plan to work with. I would love to impact our future generations to be productive and plan out your futures. My education is the one thing that'll keep me growing as an individual. To build my future, it'll take years of growth and learning. Working with children is my dream, it's been a goal of mine for many years now. Here I am, in school achieving my goals even if it'll take many years of school and thousands of dollars' worth of tuition. Everyone has personal commitments that they want to do. Wither it be mental or physical it's all such a beautiful thing. My "build" just so happens to be my education to grow and learn everything to achieve my career goals. That may be a cliché answer, but I truly can't think of anything else I want to build. I want to continue to build my future, my career, my family goals, and aspirations. I may be young; just now starting the real world but I know what I want and will work so very hard to get to where I want to be.

Mental health is extremely important to me as a college student because it's always best to be in a good mindset while focusing on schoolwork and the task at hand. College can be very stressful and overwhelming at times. I believe it's best to try to look at the positives of anything rather than be down on yourself. Being in a good mental space is great for anyone but is especially important for any college student with a lot on their plate. As for me, it's best to have an important mental health to not be so down and negative all the time. If I ever get in a mood, it's extremely hard for me to let things go. That is however something I'm working on though. Having a good mental health helps me become my best self. I love to stay positive and look at the bright side of anything. Having a good mental space for school only calls for good grades, positive outlooks, and good memories. It can be difficult to stay positive while being in college. Trust me, I'd know because certain classes have whipped my butt!! It's hard, but I'd truly encourage anyone to at least try to be as positive as possible. I advocate for mental health mostly to my family and friends. I encourage them to talk to me about their feelings. If ever something is wrong, I try to be there for anyone. Honestly, as I type this, I am being a bit hypocritical. As mental health and talking about emotions is very important, I've just now gotten better at speaking my mind. I used to always bottle up my emotions but I have been better about it. I still do encourage my brother to open up to me as I may have some good older sister advice!!! I've also gotten great at watching out for any early signs of stress. Whether it be at my workplace, home, or at school I can always tell if someone is a bit too stressed over the smallest of things. When this happens, I do try to calm them down and make them feel a tad bit better. Mental health isn't talked about enough. It's a topic that many people are uncomfortable talking about which is very unfortunate. I want to make mental health more important within my school. School is important and should have a safe place for anyone struggling.

As a twenty-year-old, I have certain dreams and goals to work towards that take lots of time and dedication. My long-term goal is to become a school counselor; it takes years' worth of school and studying. As for now, I'm heading into my second year at Baton Rouge Community College to get my prerequisites out of the way. I'm still very new to everything college related even if I'm started slowing at a community college rather than a university. I life in Baton Rouge where most high school seniors tend to go to the Louisiana State University. Eventually I plan to transfer to LSU in the near future but truthfully, it's just too expensive. Now, i may sound like I have a ton of goals, which is all very much true. With that being said, these goals will become my reality of the span of many years. I've only taken a few classes each semester so far with much more to come. To become a successful school counselor, you have to get a bachelor's as well as a master's specially in school counseling. Over the past year, I've learned that school is very rewarding, exhausting, time consuming, and expensive. I have everything planned out perfectly with the help of my family, but it'll be years till I get to my ultimate goal of being in a classroom with kids. All I want is to work with children as my career and I'm slowly but surely getting there. My most important recourses to help each and every goal is studying. Studying in each way to help me better understand what I'm getting myself into. I believe that everyone could study up on whatever they desire. For me, it's everything school related to get into LSU. From there, graduate to be in a school setting. It'll take lots of time, but it'll be worth all the pain and headaches from staring into a screen. A budget is quite confusing for me to be honest. My parents pay for my tuition which I'm so very thankful for. Going into my second year, I've seen how much they spend on school and it's truly absurd and scary. I'm only attending school at a community college getting my associates degree and they're already spending thousands of dollars per semester. It pains me to see them spend so much just for my education. The very least I can do is help them out pay some of my tuition if possible. My dreams and goals are becoming a reality. It's all so very exciting!!!

It's unfortunate that mental health has taken a toll on people all around the world. It's never been highlighted as an important subject till now. I'm very fortunate that my mental health has always been great. Of course, I have moments of doubt, sadness, regret and so much more. My mental health has stayed as good as it is thanks to the people I chose to surround my life with. I firmly believe that my family and friends keep my mental health as well as it really is. In high school, I would be around negative people, and my mood would really shift if I were around them. As I've gotten older, I've learned to stay around the people I love the most. It's a necessity, very important for anybody to feel the love no matter if it's a blood relative or best friend!! My mental health has pushed me to put myself out there into the world a bit more. I've always been the shy kid so having a good mental health has given me the push to be better. My experience with mental health has influenced who I'm working to become. As a young adult, I've grown a love and passion of working with children. I would love to become a school counselor!!! Having a good mental health and mind space calls for your dreams and aspirations to come to you. My relationships have also gotten so much stronger as the time goes by. I feel as if I've grown closer to my little brother as well as my parents. Same for my best friend who is my literal sister from another mister. I feel so comfortable with myself around my favorite people. I can tell any of them anything and either get love and support or criticism that I'll take and use to better myself. I'm truly so lucky to feel as loved by my family and best friend. My mental health has brought out the best of me, and I think anyone close to me would agree. I've come to realize that this world is such a horrible place with much more bad than good. Mental health is a very important topic that should be talked about even more. There are too many people in this world that need advice, love, and someone to talk to. I've learned that it's always best to speak your mind and not bottle up your emotions. It'll hurt you way more in the vend. Mental health is both such a beautiful yet terrible thing all at once. We need to come together and do better.

As we all know, Love Island is full of drama, secrets, and spicy moments that the audience loves to watch. I think that and Love Island season needs more meaningful challenges without the making out and dancing on one another. As a new challenge, I think there should be a day prior dedicated to truly learning every dirty, sweat, awkward, annoying think about one another in a couple. While the challenge day comes around, it's called "Mr. and Mrs."; a trivia game with each thing they talked about the day prior. The set will be more like a wedding venue with pretty roses and baby's-breath everywhere while the men are in suits and the ladies in all white lingerie. It has to be lingerie because it is Love Island after all!! The challenge would need to start as any other trivia game, but the questions will become a bit more difficult as the game progresses. If a person loses, they have to sleep alone no matter what a couple's situation is like. During the course of this game, Mr. and Mrs., there are multiple rounds with couples playing agist each other. While the loser sleeps alone, the winner gets a meal of their choice. I think that's pretty fair considering all they eat on screen are eggs and avocado toast!!

To become the first person within my family to get a college degree means absolutely everything to me. I am beyond blessed and grateful for having the opportunity to get a degree to ultimately pursue my dreams of working with children. Growing up, I always envisioned myself at the Louisiana State University. While that isn't the case for now, my journey starts at the Baton Rouge Community College. Becoming the very first college graduate is such a blessing. My father works endless hours to not only pay for tuition but to also keep a food over our heads and food on the table. College fees can truly take a financial toll on anyone. My parents never got the opportunity to go to college. It wasn't in the books for them. As for me, it's almost always been a plan for me to attend school, but it wouldn't be possible without my parents love and ultimate support. As I head into my second year in community college, I plan to get my prerequisites out of the way. I'm only taking at least three classes a semester due to the uncomfortable and unsettling prices of tuition. Once I get my prerequisites out of the way, I plan to apply to LSU like I always envisioned. For now, I'm keeping things slow as I make my way through the prerequisites ao they aren't an issue down the line. While taking a gap year between high school and starting college, I knew that going to a community college was the only way considering I didn't get a good ACT score or even TOPS to help with college. My long-term goals are literally called "long term" for a reason. I'll be at BRCC for a while, but I do plan to graduate from LSU with a Batchlor's and then eventually a Master's in school counseling. I've always loved working with kids, our beautiful future generations. For the longest time, I debated on what exact field of child work I wanted to do. I had settled on the idea of school counseling to help students in a school setting. To go through school specifically for school counseling takes year's worth of studying, working hard, sleepless nights, and money going towards school. I'm ready to start this chapter of my life. I'm so lucky to have an opportunity to chase my dreams. It's all thanks to my parents who give me life in the palm of my hands.

There is a certain time in my eighth-grade year that has impacted my life on the important yet very devastating topic revolving around suicide. At the time, I was old enough to know what suicide was but was too young to grasp into the severity of it all. There was an eighth grader from my school that had sadly lost their battle with depression and committed suicide. I never knew the student well enough, but it did make me realize how very beautiful life is. From everyday activities to having a supportive family. The tragedy of losing a peer my age impacted me to keep going no matter what. I couldn't imagine leaving my friends and family. There's too much to lose and I'd hate to put my family in such a dark place. The stats of suicide in the United States are out of this world and so depressing. I've personally always found it so very upsetting that anyone would think that taking their own life is the only answer. Even years later, suicide is very much talked down upon and don't have enough recourses to help those in need. It has always been a hard subject for many people, and I wish it was talked about more. About two years ago, I lost a family member to suicide. When I got the news, I was taken aback, confused, and hurt. Mixed emotions filled with grief and sadness. He was the last person I would've ever imagined losing that way. Ever since then, I've promised myself to talk about my emotions more. I'm still working on that, but I've learned to get help when I need it the very most. Suicide is an uncomfortable topic and I wish it weren't. I've been impacted to speak my mind, to open up and not stay in my "shell". If your ever struggling, it's best to go to the people you know and love the most. From middle school up until losing my family member, it's all taught me to not struggle in silence. I'm a very shy person that keeps to myself. I tell myself to loosen up, calm down and talk. Bottling up my emotions is a tendency I need to stop doing. I've been impacted to let these habits go. Talk more, don't be scared to cry, let someone know what I'm going through. It's not healthy, I'm still growing as an individual. Being twenty isn't all that easy, truthfully, it's difficult now but I just know adulting will get much more difficult.

Hello, my name is Maya McInnis and just as any young adult, I'm still figuring out my life. For as long as I could remember, I've always said that working with children was my ultimate goal. For quite a while, I liked the idea of becoming a speech therapist. I honestly think I said that, liked the idea of it, and just stuck with that for a long period of time. As I head into my second year of community college, I've done research and think I've truly found what I'd really love to do as a career. Becoming a school counselor just sounds absolutely perfect!!! Now, as I've been set on working with children, I've also worked with them and have truly grown to love being in a school setting. While I was in middle school, I was in a physical education class since I am disabled with mild Cerebral Palsy. My teacher made me feel comfortable within my own skin and showed me her love for teaching students with special needs. Something in me clicked, I felt a love for being in the classroom just like my teacher. I thank her for all the love and advice she's given me. Ever since that moment, I've wanted to work with kids more and more. In my senior year of high school, I was a part of an LSU education class in which I had the wonderful opportunity to observe and work with kids at our neighboring elementary school. At the time, I was more like a student teacher just simply helping out any way possible. I'd get real college level work with a real LSU professor grading each assignment. This class made me realize even more that working with young children, our future is the one thing I'm meant to do. It's my calling, something that makes my day just as better. I haven't done much volunteering but simply being in that LSU class was enough for my class to call me "Ms. Maya" and run up to hug me. At the time, these kids were in the second grade, now they're older and are becoming more independent. I just hope that I made their day each time I came to work with them. Just seeing their smiles was very much worth it. That's what I'm working towards. To finish school and make my students feel just at home even if it's while we're away at school. If I can make a difference in a students' life, all the studying, pain, and school is so very worth it!!

As I head into my second year of college, I've learned to grow and adapt to learning everything either as just a lecture or strictly all online. Google Scholar Husband the main resource that I have used to learn a subject outside of my classes. I first started using Google Scholar as a senior in high school and have used it more and more now that I'm in college. As Google Scholar is strictly for helping the education of college students, I've grown to love it more than any other educational platform. As all of my classes have been lecture classes, it's always nice to use an extra platform to read up if I ever get confused on a certain topic. Google scholar gets straight to point and is very easy to navigate. Lecture classes can be confusing and all over the place for anybody. I certainly do you think that Google Scholar is one of the top resources to use to study with. I've personally used Google Scholar for multiple hands-on projects in different classes. Many of my professors would agree that it is the most reliable study resource of them all. As for my latest college algebra math course, I have used Pearson access to study with. Mathematics has always been my least favorite and hardest subject to grasp onto. semester of school, I used Pearson access During this last semester of school, I used Pearson Access Plus to take quizzes and notes. There were also many videos to watch and understand each and every topic. I would highly recommend using Pearson Access Plus even if it is a little pricey. My school uses Pearson, so my account was automatically free. That might not be the case for everybody else though. Overall, I highly recommend Google Scholar and Pearson Access Plus for anybody to study with. Both platforms are highly trustworthy and get straight to the point. Any professor would recommend these two platforms. My favorite part is being able to track my progress as I study different subjects. And as for google scholar, it's always nice to have college Resources that won't be looked down upon for certain projects, essays, et cetera. School can be very stressful, I've only been through one year so far, but I can definitely tell that these two platforms are the most helpful of them all. Hopefully I can find more as I go through the next multiple years of school but as for now Google Scholar and Pearson are the only two that I will be using.

Education is very important; it's the one thing that keeps us learning and growing no matter how old we are. I am currently in my second year of college and plan to become a school social worker. For as long as I've known, i've almost always wanted to work with children in elementary school. It's truly been a dream and something I long for. As a young adult, I have learned that education is highly important for any individual to work Any individuals way up to achieving their ultimate career goals. As for me I am at my hometown's Community College. As it is summer how, I plan to go back in the fall to head into my second year. To become a school counselor, I need my undergrad, bachelor's, as well as my masters in School counseling. School can be overwhelming yet very beautiful all at once. It can also be extremely expensive depending on where you go. As for me, I plan to transfer to the Louisiana State University to get my bachelors and masters. It is a very expensive and time-consuming chapter in my life, My adult life is just now starting but it is coming in hot and is very overwhelming. I am fortunate enough that my parents pay for my tuition now, but we have had conversations about taking out student loans once the time comes. Simply because the Louisiana State University is too expensive for anybody but especially us. The very last thing I want is to put a financial burden on my parents. Winning a scholarship to help out just a tad would be an absolute dream. As I've mentioned before, becoming a school counselor is my ultimate dream. Working with children has been such a blessing for me. Children are our future and truly that I can make a difference in a few children's lives if I try my very hardest. Sometimes, school can be the only safe place for a few kids. I hope to leave a legacy of warmth and comfort in the schools that I choose to work at. I know it'll be a long time from now, but I'm truly so excited to see what my future holds for me. I've always been told that I'm great with working with kids. Even when I was a kid myself, my parents and family told me that one day I will be a wonderful mother. Even then, that felt like such a wonderful compliment at such a young age. As dedicated as I am to becoming a school counselor, I hope that all of this work will be worth it. I want to make a difference in someone's life. I want to be someone's safe place if possible. Children are so special, I always feel so happy when I'm around them in working with them.

As a twenty-year-old young adult. I've faced issues with what I truly to do with my future. I have a plan set in place now. I've always known that I want to work with children. With that being said, it's quite a broad path with many options. After doing my research, I would love to become a school counselor. I've done lots of research and I truly think that being a school counselor is what I'm meant to do. I am currently heading into my second year of school at my hometown Community College. As of right now my plan is to work to get my associates degree, then transferred to the Louisiana State University. From there, I need to work towards getting my bachelor's and then my Masters in School counseling. Becoming a school counselor in Louisiana takes a lot of work and dedication. I'm just at the beginning and I know that this long road ahead of me is going to have a ton of up's and downs. I'm the first in my family to become a college student, I do not want to let my parents down and will do everything possible to get good grades and stay on this path that I have planned out for myself. There are many years of school ahead of myself but no matter what life throws at me I will keep going to get what I've wanted my entire life. My entire life I've just had an inkling that working with children as a career is the one thing I meant to do. Even now, I'm I firmly believe that with everything in me. Children are our future in the least I can do is counsel them and help them starting at their young ages. Going to college is a blessing that I I'm so very grateful for. My parents support me through everything I go through. I am forever grateful for them and what they do to help me achieve my goals. I've always been to have a list of goals and check them off as I achieve them. As of right now I only have one goal checked off, which would be being graduate high school with good grades. Now that I am in college, I need to keep the good grades, so I don't let my parents down. School is so very important but also extremely expensive. For my plans and my goals, it takes thousands and thousands of dollars just for tuition. This scholarship will help my parents tremendously. The very least I can do is win a scholarship to help pay for my tuition as there are many years still to come.

Being a first-generation student means so much to not only me but also my family. I'll be the first to accomplish the ups and downs of college. I'm already one year in and have learned the harsh reality of college and how much work it takes to achieve your goals. My parents have been through so much, for them to make me a first-generation college student is so very rewarding and truly such an honor. Within my twenty years, I've faced so much more than the stereotypical young adult. I had a stroke in utero which has cause me to have mild Cerebral Palsy as well as Epilepsy. Now, as a young adult with CP, I've had to learn to adapt with one working hand. This doesn't however affect my education though. School has always been my first and truly only priority. I have a job at my local hardware store, but they've always been super understanding when it comes to certain activities I can't do for myself. I'm currently heading into my second year at Baton Rouge Community College. I plan to become a school counselor!! I've faced many challenges throughout my life. With that, of course comes the overcoming the issues part. My family has always been by my side through ever challenge I face. As I start this new chapter of my life, I've grown to learn that my most current challenge is school. I've always been a good student, but college has been overwhelming to say the least. My worst subject has always been math. College algebra literally drained me. I'm well aware that I can overcome this new challenge and will overcome it because it's a blessing that I'm even able to be in school. My dad taught be to always have a goal list. Work your way up to achieving a goal to ultimately check it off. My goal is to graduate BRCC with my associates degree to later on transfer to LSU. From a very young age, I knew that I've always been meant to work with children as a living. Here I am, working to move closer to my two goals. Graduating community college to work for my Bachelor's and Master's to be a school counselor!! Gosh, I have so many dreams, but my ultimate dream is to be in a school helping my student's. To dream big, you have to work towards it and that is exactly what I'm doing!! It may sound super cliché, but my family drives me to become my best self, to work so hard to achieve my dreams and aspirations. This scholarship will help both financially and emotionally. School is expensive, winning this scholarship will help out tremendously!!! Thank you, Maya McInnis

All my life I've been interested in working with children one way or another. I distinctly remember being in middle school thinking that working with kids is the one and only thing I am meant to do. Now that I am in college and a young adult life is getting a bit harder and time is flying by. I would love to become a paraprofessional and work in an elementary school. The young kids today are our future. I don't believe in just being handed what you want. If you truly want something, you have to put in the work and have the grit to achieve your goals. My goal is to graduate school to become a para and have an impact on our future generation. Children are so very wonderful, they are taught from the second they come out the womb. I would love to make an impact on young kids to have the grit and determination to not do well in school but also stay in school. It may sound cliché, but here in Louisiana, there is an 8.5% dropout rate according to the 'Louisiana Department of Education.' It's always important to encourage students to stay in school no matter how old they are. Why not start in elementary school while they're young and start to have dreams of becoming doctors, vets, etc.? I will use my years of education by impacting the lives of little ones and making them feel good about their future. In my senior year of high school, I was in an LSU education course in which I had the opportunity to work with students at my high school's Neighboring elementary school. I went the elementary school at least twice every single week. The students called me "Miss Maya" and looked forward to seeing me every single time I was there. Seeing my class light up with joy once I showed up genuinely made me feel warm and fuzzy. Our future needs to be better, the very least I can do is work with the kids who will change our future no matter what is in store for us. I'm in school my hometown's community college. So, to become a para or even work with children I believe it looks best if I get my degree from LSU. With all that being said, I'm headed into my second year with many years of school left. Along the way, I've had many people inspire me by simply putting myself out there. In middle school, one of my P.E coaches encouraged me to do what I love the most. She made me realize that I can do whatever I want even if I'm different compared to all the other kids. I had a stroke in utero which caused me to have mild Cerebral Pasly. That doesn't stop me from working hard to achieve my goals. My mother has also inspired me to work so very hard to achieve my goals of working with children as a career. She supports me through everything and I'm so very lucky to have such an amazing mother. I am absolutely determined to work with kids and make some type of change for our future. Even if it's a minor change, hopefully it'll be worth it somewhere. I've always had a soft spot for kids. In some cases, school is their only safe spot. Making a difference in people's lives is my ultimate goal. I can't wait to see what the future holds for me!! This is just the beginning of a very wonderful chapter in my life!!!

From a very young age I've always known that working with children as a profession is the one thing that I want to accomplish in life. Kids are so very special, they are our future in need to have the utmost best education possible to make our future as beautiful as we can only dream of. Growing up You're always, you're always asked what you want to be old what you want to be when you grow up. At first, my answer would be to become a chef. But sometime in middle school I came to the realization that working with children is what I'm meant to do. As a young adult who has a mild cerebral palsy in epilepsy, I have grown up to learn and adapt with a single working hand and obstacles that I face on a daily basis. I've always been around peers that are disabled just like me. With a wide range of cerebral palsy to Autism, both mild to severe. I genuinely think that being disabled and helping my friends in school encouraged me to work in a school setting. Children always had a special place in my heart. In my senior year of high school, I was a part of college class education course with Louisiana State University specifically for kids who want to become teachers. At the time, I was fully convinced that becoming a speech therapist was what I wanted to do. Now that is not so much the case for me. I believe that being a paraprofessional is more up my alley. Being hands on in a classroom and with the children 24/7 seems more my speed. I am very passionate about early education because children need a good enough education to become our future doctors, scientists, lawyers, etcetera. As a 20-year-old young adult, I have witnessed this world crumble specifically in the USA. All I want is to make a difference in children's worlds to become better and know their worth. A young child's education is beyond important for many reasons. The least I can do is help a few students even if it won't change our future much. Children are so special and deserve nothing but love and support. Sometimes, School is the only place children feel comfortable. It's sad and unfortunate but I want to be a teacher that students look forward to seeing and talking to. I would love nothing more to become a paraprofessional in help childhood education become better and better day by day.

All my life, I have loved Taylor Swift End her music. From the young age of around 5, She was my favorite music artist growing up. Of course, that was when she was releasing more country music than pop nowadays. Now that I am 20 my favorite in most moving performance that Taylor has performed is "all too well." It is a known fact that most of Taylor's music are mostly about love stories or breakups and heartbreak that she has gone through. Her song 'all too well' the 10-minute version captures perfectly how a true heartbreak feels. With all this being said, I have only been with one boy in our relationship was quite rocky. The breakup was rough considering it was my first time having to deal with that, but Taylor's music helped me through the pain. 'All too well' Genuinely means a lot to me considering the emotion in feeling she put into her song. There are many artists out here that try to express themselves and it doesn't go as well as Taylor's songs. The song truly captures Taylor's and true emotions of heartbreak in which many people can relate to both male and female. Although Taylor's fanbase is mainly females, that doesn't mean meals aren't able to relate to her music. That's just one of the reasons Taylor will always be one of my favorite music artists. It's also a well-known fact that Taylor Is known for her love life. Hence, why most of her music is about either love or heartbreak. 'All too well' Is truly so moving just by the fact that she is so raw with it. In any performance with that song, you can just hear the pain and hurt in her voice. She is never afraid to sing how she really feels and hide her emotions. Swift has had a long journey Oh ups and downs. Throughout her journey of becoming one of the most famous female pop artists, she has gone through a wild ride. All of her music means something so special in some form. Her 'all too well' 10-minute version sums up perfectly what her life was at that time. I personally love that she never hides most of her feelings to her fans. She is transparent but also knows when to hide her feelings so it's not too much for us fans. Taylor Swift has always been one of my favor artists. At one point, she was my very favorite music artist, and she would be the only person I would want to listen to in the car. I still listen to her, but I tend to listen to her older music such as her first few albums. There are many moving performances that Taylor has performed. But I have listed my top number one performance ever. Many people may disagree but that is just how I feel. That specific song helped me through my first breakup, and I will never ever forget how Taylor Swift helped me as a 17-year-old high school student going through heartbreak. Swift has always been there for me no matter what I've gone through my entire life. I love her so very much. Maybe next time she goes on tour, I'll be able to make it!!

Hello, my name is Maya and I am currently entering my second year at my hometown Community College. My "thing" technically isn't weird or awkward but definitely makes me stand out. When Hurricane Katrina came around, I had a stroke in utero. My due date was September 11th, 2005, but I came just a few days before making my birthday September 8th, 2005. When I was born, the doctors immediately knew something was off and I stayed in the NICU for weeks on end so they could figure out what was wrong with me. Turns out, I have mild cerebral palsy as well as epilepsy. As for my parents, I am the first child, so this was all very new and scary for them. The doctors eventually told my parents that I wouldn't be able to walk, talk, and I'd be in a wheelchair. I have beat the odds and to this day all of my doctors are completely confused by this miracle. I truly can't describe how grateful I am for the life that I live. Having cerebral palsy and epilepsy is unfortunate at times but I've learned to get over it no matter what it may be. I am so very loved and have so much support to help me with those things that I struggle with the most. With all this being said I am also left-handed just like Charles. I am unable to use my right hand although I do use it for support if I ever need to carry certain things around. When I was little, I started to name my right hand my "great hand" since it's so special and a part of me!! I'm never ashamed of my disability. In fact, it does make me stand out but I'm never scared to talk about it or talk about the struggles I face throughout my life. If anything, I want other people to realize that I'm just like everyone else just a tad bit different. I do struggle with adversity, but I do also try to overcome my challenges and if not, I do have a great support system being my wonderful family that will help me throughout everything. My "thing" is my disability and I'm never, ever afraid to say that. I am forever blessed with this light and happy that I am always surrounded with loving people who choose to love me for who I am.

Truthfully, growing up as a child with Cerebral Palsy wasn't all rainbows and unicorns. Tons in school were having cerebral palsy was either a good thing or a bad thing. In elementary school I had a physical education teacher who I clicked with automatically as soon as I started classes with her. I've always known that from a young age I've wanted to work with children as a career. I don't necessarily want to become a teacher per se, I just like the idea of being in a school setting with children who may need someone to talk to. Schools should always be a safe place for children of all ages. I truly believe that if I become a guidance counselor or paraprofessional, that either way I will make a difference in certain kids' lives. You never know what happens behind closed doors, school may be the only time students have a chance to be themselves and feel confident within the few hours they are gone from home. I love the idea of being in a classroom helping students no matter what the case may be. I truly think that my disability has influenced my decision to Work with children in elementary school. I've always been around students and peers that either have physical or other disabilities. One thing that I want to do is make students feel the most comfortable they possibly can in a school setting. In middle school, I was in a physical education class with other peers who have cerebral palsy and autism. The Physical Education teacher was someone who I knew in elementary school, and I felt genuinely happy to be with her every other day of the week. Coach Anderson made me realize that I can be comfortable with in myself and who I truly am. In her class, I helped her with the students play games, do arts and crafts, and workout considering it is a physical education class. She made a difference in my life for sure. To this day I believe that Coach Anderson inspired me to want to work with students in some form. As a 20-year-old young adult, I have struggle with the ups and downs of having a physical disability. Yes, it can be overwhelming and difficult not being able to do certain things, but I always find a way to overcome an issue or problem. Now that I am in school at a Community College in my hometown, I am filled with joy over the fact that I am achieving my goal to do what I love the most. My cerebral palsy and epilepsy don't hold me back from taking classes in school to get my degree to work in an elementary school. I am one year into Community College and plan on transferring to LSU to eventually get my bachelor's degree. I am very grateful for the life that I and I'm forever thankful for my parents And Coach Anderson as well to give me the drive and grit to achieve my goals. You can truly do whatever you. It may be cliche, but no matter what struggles you are facing there is a way to overcome it. Again, I have cerebral palsy and many people don't realize it but I had a stroke in utero which caused it. I have lived every single day of my life with a single working hand to do absolutely everything. If you have a dream, achieve it work for it and do your hardest to get what you want.

Truthfully, Olivia’s music helped me through a breakup with my ex-boyfriend. Although this was all three years ago, her music has helped me through the tough times going through your first breakup ever. In her song traitor, she sings “took you two weeks to go off and date her Guess you didn't cheat but you're still a traitor” At the time, I was in high school and thought that being broken up with was the end of the world. These lyrics from “Traitor” were very relevant in my life at the time. My ex had moved on and gotten with another girl within two weeks of breaking up with me. Olivia’s music truly helped my young seventeen-year-old self go through a breakup with ease and come to terms with how my life would’ve been without my him in my life. I felt good about being single and free from a relationship with so many issues. To this day, I hear that song and it genuinely takes me back to junior year when I was struggling with who I was and the people I spent my time with. The song traitor speaks volumes for anyone. I remember hearing thing while going through the breakup thinking, "wow, Olivia truly knows how to make any girl break down in tears over the stupidest boys that mean nothing." That song and those lyrics helped me come to terms with my life without him. Being a teenager is so beautiful and scary all at the same time. Rodrigo captures the teenage years perfectly throughout her music. Even in her song "All I want", she describes exactly how most girls feel about wanting to have a "picture perfect" relationship with a guy. That song has always been special to me because even now I relate to the lyrics. "All I want is love that lasts." All of Olivia's music has helped me in many different ways. Most of all, she helped me realize that being different is okay. As a young adult with Cerebral Palsy, it's a wonderful feeling to find a music artist that can express themselves perfectly and help others feel good about themselves. Olivia isn't scared to put herself out there. I think she encourages others to do the same. She genuinely wants the best for her fans and I love that. Rodrigo has helped me through a breakup and becoming more confident and comfortable within myself. You can't find many artist that are like that now.

My entire life, I've been told that I'm special. I had a stroke in utero which caused me to have mild Cerebral Palsy as well as epilepsy. From the second I was born till now, I've taught myself how to overcome hundreds of obstacles that are difficult to do with one hand. I'm beyond grateful to have my families' love and support throughout everything I face. When I was young, I started to call my right hand my "great hand" because it's my special hand that needs a tad more help. Cerebral Palsy is a part of me but doesn't define me as a "sad" or "unfortunate" disabled person. Yes, it can be overwhelming and kind of annoying at times but I'm so very lucky that I'm capable of so much more. I say that strictly because when I was born, my doctors told my parents that I'd most likely be in a wheelchair and nonverbal. Well, I've beat the odds and have overcome so much that I wasn't meant to happen originally. Cerebral Palsy has influenced me to have a special place in my heart for helping others grow and achieve their own dreams. I love working with children in elementary school. Simply being around, them makes my day so much better no matter where I am. I think this stems from being around my peers in school who also have disabilities like me. In middle school, I was in adaptive physical education with a handful of students that either had CP like me or Autism. My teacher would let me help the students with arts and crafts to critical thinking games. Being a teacher's helper made me come to the realization that working with children as a career sounds like a dream. I'm one year into community college doing my prerequisites to later on transfer to LSU. Either working as a para or guidance counselor is what I plan on doing. Being in a school setting is where I belong. I've always preferred withing with kindergarten through 5th grade. I'm just now starting this chapter of my life. School can be very overwhelming and expensive but I just know it'll be worth it in the end. Cerebral Palsy comes in some many different forms. I've always been told it would be completely different if I hadn't beat the odds. Growing up, my dream was to become a chef and cook. I think that I said that because cooking is something easy and straightforward. I found my love for working with kids while I was still a child myself. I will always believe that my disability influenced who I am today and what I plan to accomplish while being in school. No matter how hard something may be, I always find a way to overcome and accomplish a goal. As of right now, my goal in life to learn how to drive with one working hand and get through school to make my dreams a reality. Down below, I have attached a photo of myself celebrating the New Year of 2024. Celebrating a new year filled with lots of love, memories, and sparkler!!. In 2024, I was a senior in high school soon to graduate. Now that I'm twenty, I look back and try to imagine how happy my younger self would be of where I am!!

All my life I've been asked why I should be deserved stuff. As a young adult with Cerebral Palsy, there have been times when I feel like I genuinely need a bit more assistance than everyone else. I don't ask for help unless I truly, desperately need it. Asking for help from anyone makes me feel weak, almost as if I can't do anything right. Now that I'm twenty, I've learned to become a bit more independent when it comes to both work and school. Next month, it'll be one year at my job as a cashier, and I feel as if I've grown a lot just by working and constantly helping others. As for being in school, I've also opened up to my peers around me and have made study buddies that make studying so much easier. I'm currently going to my hometown community college talking a few classes each semester. That's because while I'm working part-time at my job, I don't think having such a big school workload is a good idea, not only that, but Baton Rouge Community College is still pretty expensive each semester. Now, I don't pay my tuition because my parents do but I often times feel so guilty for each monthly payment. I try my absolute hardest to make them happy, like I'm doing something right as the first person in our family to attend college. I believe I deserve this scholarship because of how hard I work. The one thing I would love is to be able to help my parents pay for my own education. As hard as my father works to pay for my lifestyle, the very least I can do is at least pay a fraction of what they will just for me to get a proper education to work with kids. My entire life, both of my parents have provided absolutely everything for me. I'm very grateful and blessed for the life that I live that they have worked so very hard for. I want to show my gratitude and love by helping them a little. I fell as if it's the least I can do considering I'll be in school for many, many y ears to come. As I said before, I'm in community college working towards getting my associate's degree. But, to work in a school either as a para, guidance counselor, or even a school social worker, you have to at least have a master's to be able to work with kids. I have many years of hard work and dedication ahead of me. Receiving the scholarship will not only help the burden of my school's financial pressure but will also prove that all this pain I've been going through is worth it. School is so very stressful, winning this scholarship will at least help a tad. I'm not only a student, I'm a twenty-year-old young adult who is figuring life out day by day.

As a young adult with Cerebral Palsy and epilepsy, I’ve grown up around so much love and happiness. It’s not easy being disabled and having access to do everything with one hand. When I was born, the doctors told it parents that I wouldn’t be able to walk, talk, and I’d be in a wheelchair. I’ve beaten the odds and have overcome everything they said would be the case at the ripe age of just weeks old. I’m very lucky and so fortunate of how my cards have been handled to me. There are times where I often feel left out from something that I’m physically unable to do. Yes, it’s disappointing but it is what is is. The harsh reality is I’m a disabled twenty year old who is challenged every single day but some obstacle. As a high school graduate, I’ve gone through school with so many ups and downs. I specifically remember every kid in my classes all throughout elementary school asking what was up with my hand. I’d tell them the truth with a tad bit of fear. I think that’s normal, for any disabled child to be afraid of what other kids will thing about you. Middle school and high school were completely different. There were kids what would ask but genuinely not give a crap at the end of the day. Being disabled has always been a ride of emotions. There are times where being left out is the end of the world while other times it can genuinely feel good. I’m lucky to have such a supportive family who helps me through each obstacle and challenge that I come across day by day. Ever since I was a child, I somehow knew that I wanted to work with kids myself. I truly believe that being around other peers with disabilities has influenced me to want to work in a school setting. The children today are our future leaders, doctors, scientists, lawyers, and so many more important careers. I genuinely want to make a difference and help our future generations grow and learn to succeed at such a young age. In my senior year of high school, I was given the opportunity to work at a local elementary school to observe the teachers and help the students. Simply being in that second grade classroom made me come to the realization that I’m truly meant to work in a school setting. Working with kids and helping them grow as individuals sounds like a dream to me. My disability has made me realize that I learn more about myself each day but but also help children do the same as well. Kindergarten through 5th graders need the reassurance and encouragement from adults. I can be that one person who they can come to talk to. I want to be able to have kids feel comfortable and safe around me no matter what they do or even need.

I had a stroke in utero, which caused me to have mild Cerebral Palsy as well as Epilepsy. As a young adult who is disabled, I've always been around other peers who are also disabled. Being a part of the disabled community, my entire life has made me see both the good and bad in this world. This world is full of a ton of hatred and disgust. This may just be my opinion, but I have always believed that there is more bad than good. There are many people full of hate towards the disabled community. It's sick, repulsive, and just downright sad. Any individual with a disability needs lots of love and should always be treated just as any other "normal" individual. With all this being said, I've seen and heard too many terrible stories about disabled people being look down upon, neglected, and even killed from horrible monsters that are sick. Like I've mentioned, there are good people. What makes me happy as one from the disabled community is people genuinely taking the time out of their day to simply spend time or even acknowledge us. It always makes my heart happy to see anyone help or even do a kind gesture to a disabled person. It doesn't take a lot to be nice; it'll take more energy out of yourself to become mean. In middle school, instead of being in regular physical education I was in adaptive physical education which shaped how I interact with my peers who are disabled too. I loved watching my teacher help the class and put a genuine smile or everyone's face. My teacher, Coach Anderson showed me what it's like to truly fall in love with a job and also help my disabled community feel so much better about themselves. The experience of not only being disabled but also getting to see this world full of so much love and hate all at once has showed me so much at the ripe age of 20. I truly believe that growing up with such wonderful teachers and paras around has influenced me to have a love for working with children. As a young adult, I've planned on becoming a speech therapist. Truly because I had said that since elementary school and though that's what my heart was set on. Truth is, I would love to work in a school setting as a guidance counselor, ESS, or even a para!! I've seen and heard of so many good and bad teachers, guidance counselors, and more. I think that using every bit of good and bad advice has guided me to choose this route. I'm just a young adult with Cerebral Palsy who wants to work with kids and genuinely put a smile on kids' faces!! Everyone can use a little love no matter where you are. The very least I can do is impact our future generation and make people's days!!

Hello, my name is Maya McInnis and even though I'm quite young, I've overcome a ton of challenges. When I was in the womb, I had a stroke which caused me to have mild cerebral palsy as well as epilepsy. Throughout these twenty years, I’ve dealt with a great deal of adversity, anxiety, and even small but significant challenges I’ve faced. I’ve learned that being disabled does have its pros and cons but I’ve taught myself each and every day how to cope with it. Although I take seizure medication, I haven’t had a seizure in many years. Epilepsy is terrifying, you never know what to really expect. With all this being said, I have never let my disability affect me in such a negative way. Yes, there are many things I’m just simply unable to do but I always try to do a task no matter how difficult it may be. Cerebral palsy doesn’t stop me from achieving my dream of becoming a speech therapist. The one thing I truly want in my life is to help others. Nothing, and I mean absolutely nothing will get in my way of that. Living these 20 years disabled has been a challenge. But, a beautiful challenge with such both ups and downs. I’ve learned to never give up, no matter what happens I get back up and try. There are times where I feel defeated and discouraged but my family helps me grow and become better and stronger each day. I want to become a speech therapist and potentially work on schools to help our next generation learn and grow to feel better within themselves. There’s nothing worse than hating yourself or even feeling down all the time. Working in a school would make me feel as if I’m really doing something right. All I want is to help, I’ve always been a helper. Becoming a speech therapist will help others but I’d be making a positive impact on them as well. Honestly, nothing beats that. School can be a tough place for kids, if I can make a difference and chance the outlook for certain kids then I’d love to do that!! Kids brighten up my day, I just want to make sure they know I understand what it feels like to be a child who’s different one way or another. Making a difference in anyone’s life is so special, my life goal is to do that and do it well!!

Hello, my name is Maya McInnis and I’m currently a freshman at Baton Rouge Community College. In my senior year of high school, I was apart of a LSU education program in which I could go to my neighborhood elementary school and help the students in class. At first, I observed the teachers, the speech therapists, and even the special education teachers. I soon grew a love for being in the education community. I grew to have a good connection with one second grade teachers, she knew that becoming a speech therapist is my one and only goal. Throughout the entirety of senior year, she let me work with her students. It was a dream to have the chance to work with kids in general. With that being said, having the opportunity to work at the elementary school genuinely made me fall in love with teaching kids. My heart grows big when I’m around kids, either while I’m teaching them or even just babysitting! I’ve always been told that I’m great with kids, except it was different hearing if from a real teacher who barely knew me outside of the school. She sparked something in me, she made me realize that I have one thing I’m meant to do. That’s simply becoming a speech therapist to help our future children and generations. I couldn’t imagine doing anything else, kids make me happy and I genuinely want to make a difference in some people’s lives one way or another. I’m so very grateful to have some LSU experience, I plan on transferring there once I’m done attending Baton Rouge Community College. Easing my way into college has been the right decision, I have my heart set on helping and working with children as a career. There is nothing that’ll change my mind about that at all. Our youth needs our support, I think that our kids need a little push to become more educated. Our future is truly put on the line, the least I can do is assist them speech impediments that can be solved within a few years or even less. Not everyone is able to work with kids with such ease, I am one of those people and I’ll do everything in my power to become such an asset for my future students and kids. When my heart is set on something, I never give up! I’m ready, and it’s only just the beginning!!

I’m beyond passionate about music because it makes me feel something so special. I don’t play any instruments but I am however always listening to music and feeling it with my soul. Music is so special; it can be sad, happy, or even painful. I plan to become a speech therapist, I love kids and would love nothing more than to help our future generations with their speech impediments. Something else kids love is music too, from a young age you have feelings that may or may not be hard to grasp. Music helps with that, as I become a speech therapist I want to become a safe space for my students. I want them to listen to music around me and practice their skills and assignments that I may give them along the way. I truly believe that our future generations will worsen over time. As a 20 year old, my generation is failing us and I see that but not everyone else has. Our future generations need to become better, my own generation needs to come together and make a difference now while it isn’t too late. Our youth is built and molded to become who they once will be. I want to change the lives of certain kids and help them succeed in life. Speech therapy is considered one of the most important tools for both kids as well as adults for everyday life. It not only helps but it teaches patience and success. Not everyone needs speech therapy, there are however plenty of people who just simply want to have the experience. Kids are so important to me, they actually mean everything to me and I’m grateful to have such a wonderful opportunity to help them when that day comes. I’ll be a while, I’m in my freshman year of college and have many more years of school ahead of me. I’m just so thankful for the life I live. I just know I’m going to make a difference in kids’ lives one way or another. I want to give back to them and genuinely take care of them and their families. My parents have always told me I’m good with kids, I’m great with helping others. With that being said, I want to give back to our youth once I’m ready. I just know the time is coming, counting down the days is starting now!!!

Hello, my name is Maya Mcinnis and I’m currently starting my freshman year at my hometown community college to go into the speech therapy department. When I was in the womb, I had a stroke which caused severe brain damage, cerebral palsy, as well as epilepsy. These nineteen years have been an amazing roller coaster of ups and downs just because of being disabled. Even though I’m disabled, that doesn’t stop me from chasing my dreams of working with kids and becoming a speech therapist. I absolutely love children, I’ve always been told I handle them well and know exactly what I’m doing.I would love nothing more then to dedicate my time into children who may need a little extra help within their speech! I highly believe that because of my disability, it has shaped me to have a love for human health and wellness. I’ve always been one for wanting to help others fell better. I hate to use my disability to describe myself this way but, I truly think it’s why I’m the way I am. Personally, I know the struggles of having health and wellness issues, I just want to help others who may have the same struggles as me. I empathize with many kids and adults who have suffered a stroke or even have cerebral palsy. Sometimes, I wish I could simply take away the struggle of CP from others with a magical wand. It’s terrible, helping others is definitely second nature for me. Clearly not everyone has physical disabilities, there are learning disabilities as well that are most common within the speech therapy industry. I just know that I’ll definitely have a special place in my heart for the kids I can relate to one day. In high school, I was apart of an LSU teaching program. I had the opportunity to work with kids at an elementary school and observe speech therapists’ within the school. Watching two thirty minute sessions changed my perspective on what it takes to become a successful speech therapist. I’m beyond excited and determined to go through school to set my degree. I’ve always heard to chase my dreams, well, I’m starting a new chapter of my life and I’m excited to say I’m putting in the work to make a difference in kid’s and their parent’s lives. It’ll be a lot of work, but I know it’ll be worth it in the end!!

Hello, I’m Maya McInnis and I’m currently entering my first year at Baton Rouge Community College. From a very young age, I’ve always had a passion for becoming a speech therapist. Something about studying speech and helping others sounds right up my alley. I’ve chosen this career path because I simply want to help children as they grow and develop their knowledge and skills at a young age. The idea of becoming a speech therapist truly makes me excited for my future. All I want is to work with kids, I’ve always felt that way too. In high school, I had a wonderful opportunity to be in an education class and work with students at an elementary school. I was given the chance to talk to the school speech therapist and observe how she teaches each student as a small group. Within those 30 minute sessions, I knew deep down that doing speech therapy in an elementary school is exactly what I want to do as a career. I desperately hope to have some type of some impact on someone as I start this new chapter of my life. I’m a nineteen year old girl who not only has big dreams but also has Cerebral Palsy and Epilepsy. With that being said, there is absolutely nothing that gets in my way from achieving my dreams. Making an impact on someone, just anyone will genuinely make me feel like all this struggle is worth it. I believe that male and female stereotypes can be very toxic. I unfortunately haven’t done anything to support women’s empowerment though. Though, I do think that we should challenge these stereotypes and see how that works out for us women. Even though I’m quite young, I do know that women have always have it hard and that goes back hundreds of years. If we challenge certain stereotypes about being “young and weak” females, things may change for the better. As for myself, once I start college in August, I think im going to join some sort of club about women. I genuinely want to come together and do something good about the life we live. Speech therapy is my dream, I’m working towards my dream after years of wishing and hoping. It’s quite exciting, I can’t imagine what’s ahead of me and I truly hope it’ll all be work it. Here I go, the countdown begins, college starts in two months which also means a new chapter of my life. How exciting?!?!

I plan on working with young children to become a speech therapist. As a young adult with Cerebral Palsy, I would love nothing more than to work with children. I know the struggles and obstacles that it takes to live with the everyday struggles that certain people may have. To become a speech therapist and help young children means everything to me. Growing up, I wasn't too sure what exactly I wanted to do with kids. The past few years, I've grown a deep love and respect for speech therapists and the dedication they put into their job. It definitely takes a special person to work with kids who struggle with speech. I'm not sure what made me feel set on speech therapy at a young age, I guess I just had the idea and grew the love for it. It's extremely important for young children between the ages of 3 all the way up until 17. It's quite the age gap but, it's important to catch onto a speech delay or impediment early on before it's too late. Becoming a speech therapist is my dream job, I truly want to support early childhood development and help the children succeed and better their speech. Again, I always knew that working with young children is what I wanted. Starting in middle school, I started telling people that becoming a speech therapist is what I want to do. What really made me decide on this field was observing speech therapists in an Elementary school that I would visit every week. In my senior year of high school, I was a part of a Louisiana State University class. My high school was the first in East Baton Rouge to even offer this class for students who plan on becoming a teacher. As a result of the class being through LSU, we had real college level work and was graded by an education professor as well. My favorite part of the class was being able to go to an elementary school and work with the kids. I spend most of my time with a second-grade class, helping the teacher, running around helping students, and even grading papers. The one thing that I truly found a love for was the speech therapists at this school. She took the time out of her day to talk to me and talk about what it takes to become a speech therapist. She even let me stay in her room and observe the 30-minute increments with students she pulled out of class. Just simply watching and admiring her work made me grow fond to this field of work. It makes me happy that one day I'll be in a room with students helping them grow. The LSU course made me devote my time into researching and doing whatever I can just to become a speech therapist. It'll take a lot of time, but I'm ready for what lies ahead. I'll do whatever it takes to get to where I want to be.

Hello, my name is Maya McInnis and I'm nineteen years old. When Hurricane Katrina hit, I had a stroke in utero. As a result, I had severe brain damage which also caused mild Cerebral Palsy and Epilepsy. Growing up disabled has been quite the roller-coaster to say the least. A single moment, before I was even born changed everything. It's hard to pick one specific experience in my life. Honestly, I think that just living with a disability has really shaped my understanding of myself. I highly believe that being disabled has made me become the shy, yet very outgoing person that I am. Even though I may be different, that doesn't stop me from being myself and trying my best to do anything that becomes an obstacle for me. Doing certain everyday necessities become difficult but I always try to succeed in the said task at hand. Within the past year, I've realized that I'm behind in life skills. Part of that being my disability but also because I'm scared of life and what's ahead of me. For instance, I'm 19 and can't drive at all. Part of that is because I have to learn how to drive with one hand and my left foot. At the same time, I'm simply terrified to be behind the wheel. Also, having Cerebral Palsy has made me have a love for helping children. Of course I've grown up with peers who also have disabilities. I've almost always had a love for helping kids, that's what I want to do. I've found my purpose, to become a speech therapist and help young children better their speech. Having mild Cerebral Palsy has also shown me that this world is such a cruel and beautiful place all at the same time. The older I get, the more I realize that there is more bad than good in this world. For example, I've noticed that people either treat disabled people less than or just like any other person. The world is a strange place, good and bad but very strange. All disabled people should be treated well, if anything they should be praised for being miracles all over the world. Lots of people just don't agree with that or even understand the logic of respecting people. It's not fair, it's beyond difficult to knock sense into others though. My community is quite diverse, there is a little bit of everyone, and I love that Louisiana can be a little melting pot. My community is beautiful, it can be looked down on, but I love my home. Being a bit different from the average person, I've noticed that my community can be very welcoming to disabled people. It makes me feel warm and welcomed and people truly don't care about me being disabled. My community doesn't make me feel uncomfortable or even weird. I feel comfortable in my own skin, that's what's the most important.

I'm Maya McInnis and I'm currently 19 and soon-to-be freshman at Baton Rouge Community College. I was born right after Hurricane Katrina and unfortunately had a stroke in utero. The stroke caused severe brain damage as well as mild Cerebral Palsy and Epilepsy. Growing up with a disability has been quite a roller-coaster to say the least. Every single day there is some obstacle that I have to maneuver around one way or another. Having one hand isn't always easy, but I've taught myself how to do just about everything with just my left hand. Being a disabled young adult has influenced me to work with other children. I've volunteered at a capable arts disabled camp before. Prior to being a volunteer, I was a camper two different times. I think that becoming a volunteer and helping the campers with art projects just sealed the deal with wanting to become a speech therapist. With volunteer experience, I've learned to have a great amount of patience with young children. From a young age, I knew I wanted to work with kids. In middle school, being in an adaptive physical education class influenced me to want to become a speech therapist. Unfortunately, not every disabled child is able to have the gift of talking. But studies show that 1 in 12 kids have some speech impediment. In a normal public-school classroom in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, there are about 20-30 students in each elementary school class. In my senior year, I worked with a teacher at an elementary school, and she had round 25 students. I'm not positive on the precent of disabled children who have a speech impediment. With that being said, I know for a fact when I become a speech therapist, I will be working with at least one disabled child. Yes, financial need would be helpful. I'm starting school at a community college strictly because Louisiana State University is too expensive. I've applied to many scholarships hoping to hear back. I want to help my parents any possible way. Winning any scholarship money will give me the hope I've been looking for. My parents are genuinely the best, I love them so very much. To win any grant or scholarship will help tremendously. School is outrageously pricey; it hurts me to see the amount of money go into these schools for years to work your way up to a dream job. Becoming a speech therapist takes years of school, I'm starting at a community college for two years just to transfer to a university for my diploma. Here I come school, this next chapter of life is going to be quite a ride!!

As a young adult with Cerebral Palsy, I've grown up learning that it's okay to be different. I'm able to use my left hand but not my right. Every day I stumble across an obstacle that may be quite challenging at first. My identity is a young 19-year-old with mild Cerebral Palsy and Epilepsy. With that being said, my identity has given me the perspective that this world is a cruel yet beautiful place all at once. This world is huge; there is good and bad everywhere you walk. Sad, but very true. For instance, growing up with a disability has been quite a roller-coaster of emotions not only for me, but also my family. I've seen the good and the bad with disabled children of all ages. In middle school, I was in an adaptive physical education class with other peers who had either autism or cerebral palsy. That class a blessing in disguise for me. I knew the teacher from prior school years and even helped her with other non-verbal students. I believe that being around my peers with disabilities like me has an impact for my career choice that I've stuck with since middle school. Becoming a speech therapist is the one thing I want, nothing more. With good, there always comes the bad. Through social media, I've seen and heard stories of disabled children being abused, neglected, and ultimately treated less than. I believe that my place is to help others, the only thing I want.

I was born with Cerebral Palsy, caused by a stroke in utero during hurricane Katrina. Even though I’ve lived with such a difficult disability, absolutely nothing stops me from being myself. As everyone knows, there are different forms of CP. My parents call me their little miracle because I got quite lucky. When I was born, I was told I wouldn’t be able to walk, talk, and I’d be in a wheelchair. Well, I beat the odds because I’m able to do both without having to be wheelchair bound. I strongly believe that growing up with a disability has an impact on how I handle my life. Having Cerebral Palsy and access with one hand had made me push and work harder for the things I want to accomplish. I have always had the grit and determination to push myself and work towards my dreams. Certain everyday tasks are twice as hard to do with one accessible hand. With that being said, I’ve taught myself how to work around obstacles for 19 years with ease. Ever since I was a child, I knew the one thing I want in life is work with children when I’m older. I’ve always been told I’m good with kids, children of all ages too. Now that I’m a high school graduate, I’m working my way up to becoming a speech therapist. I do believe that having a physical disability has influenced my decision to becoming a speech therapist. I know how hard it is to live with a problem that can’t be fixed. With that being said, the one dream I have is to help children who have speech difficulties and can get the extra help that is needed. Before becoming the speech therapist I’ve been dreaming of, I need to get through at least six years of school and studies. I’m currently enrolled in my hometown community college to start off small before heading to Louisiana State University. I have my life planned out so far. Now, it’s just getting started and keeping up with the plan for the next few years. I’m ready to achieve the long term goal I’ve had. Like I said, nothing stops me from achieving my dreams. Not even a physical disability that sometimes makes me feel down or anxious. I’m thankful for the life I live, even though i’m 19 I feel as if it’s judg getting steered.

Billie Eilish is my favorite music artist, I feel as if I relate to her and can understand what she means even in her oldest songs such as 'Idontwannabewithyouanymore.' Each one of her songs means something special, they all have a story and a deep meaning whether it be a pop song or a sad song with a depressing meaning behind it. Honestly, it's difficult to pick a top three just because each song is so different. Billie as well as Phinneas have a great way of expressing how they feel about life and even certain topics. After a lot of thinking, I came to a decision to make 'What Was I Made For?' my number one. When that song came out with the premier of 'Barbie', every young woman, mom, single mom, and teenager felt a sense of sadness. The song expresses that as women, we don't always know our role and what exactly we're meant to do. It has a bit of sadness to it that makes people relate to it on a deeper level. 'What Was I Made For' speaks to me, I feel as if the song was made for me as I start this new chapter of my life. As a high school graduate, I've taken a year off of school to figure things out. At certain times I've felt confused and a bit lost with where I am in life and how to hit the accelerate pedal. Sometimes I feel quite behind compared to others. This song makes me feel as if I'm not the only one who's confused. When I was in the middle of my junior year, I was going through my first ever break up. The song 'Happier Than Ever' was the one song that made me validated with my own emotions and feelings over my ex. I almost felt as if the relationship was pointless at the time. 'Happier than ever' describes exactly how I felt, almost as if the song was made for me. Billie put everything into this song, and even now I feel a sense of relief hearing the song. In the song, she sings a lyric "When I'm away, I'm happier than ever." After my breakup, I could relate it the song on a different level. Billie somehow made me feel even better about leaving my boyfriend behind, she helped me feel like I'm meant for someone way better. 'Birds of a Feather' is one of Billie's most popular songs off of her latest album 'Hit Me Hard and Soft.' It's probably her most poppy song but is definitely in my top three. This song reminds me of my little brother, how our sibling bond is so strong. I'm six years older than him, my best friend forever. Our bond means everything to me, 'Birds of a Feather' is a song that you dedicate to someone so special to you. Every single time I hear this song, I always think of my brother. Billie Eilish is a musical genius is my opinion; she puts her heart into her work, and I deeply appreciate everything she does.

My name is Maya McInnis and I'm 19 years old with Cerebral Palsy and Epilepsy. During the storm Katrina, I had a stroke in utero which caused me to have Cerebral Palsy. Being disabled hasn't set back my school path whatsoever. I'm a part of the class of 2024 and have taken this full year off of school. All of senior year I had an idea of where I was going but wasn't 100% positive. Now, I'm positive I'm starting off at a community college. There is nothing wrong with that, university gets very expensive. Having a physical disability does cause many obstacles; with that being said, I try my hardest to work around the obstacles that I run into. I've always loved being around kids, kids of all ages but especially younger children. Even at a young age, I was told I'd be a great mother, and I handle kids well. That being said, becoming a speech therapist and working with children as a career is my dream. Growing up being disabled has had an impact on my career path. Being around therapists and ESS teachers my entire life has impacted me and has made me appreciate the work and dedication that everyone has. I strongly believe that you have to have a special soft spot for kids if you're planning a career around the adults of our future. I have the drive to help others, I genuinely want to make people's lives better someway. With all this planned out, it still takes a lot of work to get to the point of achieving this big goal of mine. It also takes a lot of time, dedication, and money. College fees and tuitions have become very expensive for many, many families all around the world. Additional funds will help me in my community college tuitions, even for a single semester it's thousands of dollars. That's thousands of dollars before all the book fees that I have to get. School is just expensive all around, any additional funds will help be work towards my dream. My goal, working with kids is quite literally the only thing I would love to do. Becoming a speech therapist takes at least six years of schooling, that is quite an expensive few years. Funds are helpful for anyone with a goal of many years of school. As for me, getting extra funds will be absolutely and a miracle to say the least.

Hello, my name is Maya McInnis and I’m currently 19 years old. I graduated class of 2024 and haven’t taken this year off of school to figure out what it is that I really want. When storms Katrina hit, I had a stroke in utero which caused severe brain damage as well as epilepsy. Being the oldest child, my first-time parents had no clue what it do. My parents were told I’d never be able to walk, talk, and I’d be in a wheelchair. Well, I beat the odds because I’m able to do whatever I want!! Growing up with mild cerebral palsy hadn’t always been the easiest, there are many things I cannot do and have to adapt with doing with one hand. As a result of being disabled, I’ve also grown up around many others my age who are disabled as well. From a young age I knew I would love nothing more than to work with kids. For a while I wasn’t sure what exactly I wanted. Now that I’ve graduated high school, my dream job is to be a speech therapist. Many kids and even adults have speech disorders that go undiagnosed and I personally don’t think that’s okay. Once I become a speech therapist, I’m going to impact the world by helping children and their families by providing the support and needs that they may need. This world needs more speech therapist, I believe that I can do my very best and impact people to do the same. In my opinion, I don’t think speech therapists get the recognition that they deserve. Even speech pathologists go out of their way to make patients lives better. I believe that I’d make a difference, even if it’s a small difference. I’ve been doing lots of research on being a speech therapist. It takes many years of school as well as time and dedication. I’m ready for it, I have the drive to make an impact on the world just by helping others. People may think it’s not as important, but I deeply believe that speech therapy is beyond important for the ones who need and want it the most. I’m starting at a community college to work my way up to a university. It’ll be a while before I become the speech therapist I’ve dreamed of; but either way it’ll be worth it. Even though im quite young, I have my future planned out and I want to stick to this plan. It’s my dream, I want to make a difference one way or another!!

My name is Maya McInnis, I had a stroke in utero which caused severe brain damage as a result of mild Cerebral Palsy and Epilepsy. Having a disability has made me realize that "not everyone is perfect." You hear that saying all the time, many people don't agree with it, but I definitely do. Not everyone is just as perfect as you expect, I know that I'm far from perfect, but I do everything the best as I possibly can. As for my relationships, I have such wonderful relationships with friends and family. For romantic relationships, not so much. I've had one boyfriend that ended a little less than a year. My relationships with peers around me are wonderful though, my disability doesn't hold me back from being the sweet, bubbly, and funny person that I am!! My friends see me as a person with a great personality and a warm heart. Honestly, it makes me feel so good to know not everyone worries about my differences. As for my career aspirations, I would absolutely love to become a speech therapist and work with children. As a young adult with Cerebral Palsy, I've gone to therapy and been around disabled peers my entire life. Being around people who I can relate to has influenced me to want to help children one way or another. For a while, I knew I wanted to work with children but wasn't sure what exactly. But the past few years I've been doing my research and observing speech therapist in my city. Now I know for sure, that becoming a speech therapist is exactly what I want to do. My disability has formed who I am today, I'm a young adult who has access to one hand with the desire to help others. I'm more of a homebody; I don't have much leadership experience, but I have worked at an arts camp for disabled kids just like me. I was a volunteer and helped the campers with arts and crafts each day. It was quite fun; I loved being able to help others and even dance with that at the art show!! In high school, I would also do a ton of group projects and tell my classmates what exactly would work best. I'm definitely a quiet and reserved person, that doesn't stop me from doing what I love. Having Cerebral Palsy doesn't stop me from anything.

To become the first in my family to obtain a college degree would mean absolutely everything to me. I genuinely think it'll be the first time that I feel as if I really did something correctly. My parents never had the chance to go to college, I feel beyond lucky enough even have a chance of attending college. Even if that means I'm starting at a community college, I'm starting somewhere great!! To become the first person in my family with a college degree will mean the world to me. Honestly, to describe what it means to me to be the first is hard to even describe. I haven't started going to school yet but, I can only imagine the emotions and feelings I'll go through the day I grab into the diploma As I start school in August, I hope to pursue my goal of reaching out to speech therapists to do my research of how they work with children in Elementary School. For years, I've had a dream of working with children. At first, I had no clue what exactly I wanted to do. But, as I got older, I soon realized I would love nothing more than to help young kids with their unfortunate speech habits that may need extra help. In college, I would love to pursue a dream I've had since high school of speaking with speech therapist to better understand what I'll be working my way up to. My ultimate long-time goal is to start at my hometown community college foe two years and eventually work my way into becoming a student at Louisiana State University. LSU is very pricey; I'm not on a time crunch. Once I get to do get to LSU, I plan on majoring in Speech and Communication Disorders to finally get a master's degree to become the Speech Therapist I've dreamed of for many years. It's a long and hard plan but these are my goals. If I ever have a goal, I will work so very hard to achieve my goals. One thing about me is, I never give up. My parents taught me that if I want something, I need to work for it and not just beg. I have had the idea of being a speech therapist for many, many years. Now that I have my next few years planned out, I'm beyond ready to achieve them and do what I love the most; working with kids!!

I plan on becoming a speech therapist, many people may think that speech therapists aren't teachers, but they defiantly are. I love kids, I've been good with them and my dream job is to help them succeed as they get older, and their little brains develop more. Growing up I thought I wanted to be chef, this is no longer the case now. Since being in middle school, I've talked just about everyone that the one career I would like to pursue is to be a speech therapist for little kids. Every single adult would tell me I would be a wonderful teacher. I'm unaware if I'll work in a clinic or an elementary school but either way, I'll be happy and ecstatic with wherever I end up. People may not believe that becoming a speech therapist is being a teacher, but I would highly disagree. I takes at least four years of college and many hours of supervised meetings with children before being on your own. These meetings are very crucial and important, it's called a clinical fellowship year. I've done my fair share of research about my dream job. I know exactly what it takes to become a teacher. I want to pursue a career in teaching simply because it's the one thing I want in life. I aware that I'm 19 and many adults tell high school graduates, "We don't know what we want to do with our lives." That is definitely isn't the case for me. I know for a fact that I want to become a speech therapist teacher and help guide students to life without speech problems. Not only will I be helping children succeed but I'll also be helping their families. I truly want to make a difference in people's lives for the better, that's the one reason I would love to pursue a career in teaching after college. Becoming a speech therapist takes a lot of dedication and time to pursue but I have the drive and grit to become the speech therapist I've quite literally been dreaming of for years. I spent my entire high school career working as hard as possible to get to this point. I'm officially starting school in the fall, I'll be starting this new chapter of my life at a community college. I'm beyond excited to work as hard as possible to help the children who need that help.

As a first- generation college student, I have taken a break since graduating high school to figure out exactly what I want to do. To be completely honest, starting to look into college stuff has been pretty stressful. There is a lot going on and some of these things I don't know how to do with having a college advisor to help out. Neither of my parents know what to do and I don't either but we're figuring it out. I'm not 100% sure if I'm fully prepared to become a first-generation student but I can adjust pretty well when it's important such as starting college. I'm excited to start going to school in the fall but I'm also extremely nervous to see what the community college life is like. I've recently applied to the community college I'll be attending and an advisor helped me picking out my classes for my first semester, it's all happening rapidly but I'm quickly preparing myself just like my parents are. Yes, I'm the first to start college in the fall but this is a change for my entire family. Possibly 12 hours a week with four classes and a part-time job will be a change but we adapt well. My family is excited for me, my parents know that I have a dream and want to pursue it. Getting into college takes a lot, clearly, we don't know much but we're all figuring it out together and I'm beyond thankful for my parents and everything they're doing. I feel lucky and beyond grateful for my family and the support system that they provide for their fist-generation college student. They're nothing but helpful and we guide each other through this confusing but yet very exciting time in all of our lives. I may not know what to expect when I start school in August but I do know that my parents and brother will push me into the right direct to become more independent as I start this new chapter of life. I have chosen to pursue a high education to become a speech therapist and work with children. I've always been wonderful with kids; in high school I was even a part of an LSU education class and worked with second graders. There isn't anything else I would rather do than sit with kids and help them improve their speech and shuttering habits. For many years now I've told people that becoming a speech therapist is what I am. Now that I've graduated, I'm slowly working my way to achieving that dream of mine!!

Education to me important because it's the most valuable help you can ever get to succeed in life. I've always been a big fan of school and highly believe that having access to a great education will definitely help you with any future goals. As a young adult, the one thing I want is to get the proper education for my dream career as a speech therapist. Education is important for everyone, it's also not exactly accessible for many people who want it either. To have a great education sets you up for a wonderful life, a wonderful career, and that's what I will drive myself to work to. To become a speech therapist, it takes many years of college and a really good education to learn the science of speech and how it works. I personally know it'll be a lot to work for but once again, having that great education will benefit me in so much. Having access to a good education and school will also develop communication skills which is critical to becoming a speech therapist and working with young children. I'm aware that many people have the drive and grit to have a great education, but I hope to leave great legacy of the drive and power I have to get my education Many expect to be handed a great education; that's okay in some circumstances but not all the time. I believe that my drive will leave a wonderful legacy for the ones who are like me. The kids my age who truly have to work for a spot at a good school. Some of these students are just like me, spending lots of their high school career looking for grants and scholarships for the help. I want students who are my shoes to see that anything is possible, sounds cliche but it's so true. If I could leave a legacy behind me, it will let students know to find that drive and grit in them to get that education that is needed to become so successful. All that hard work is worth it, finding the perfect school for you is great and all but it's also okay to take a breather. Working hard will get you to where you need to be, it has taken me a while, but I have finally found my place and where I'm getting the proper education to become the speech therapist I've dreamed for many years.

As a teenager with Cerebral Pasly and epilepsy, I’ve been accustomed to learning how to work around lots of physical issues that may hold me back. My entire life I’ve been around peers at school who need just as much help as me. As this next chapter of my life starts, I’ve been looking into finding myself a job to give myself a bit more independence as I head into college to become a speech therapist. Before I graduated, in my senior year of high school I was a part of an education class partnered with LSU for future educators. Being a part of that class had a huge impact on who I'll become in these next few years. Having a physical disability hasn't held me back from doing what I love the most. Of course, I've had my fair share of struggles, but nothing will quite me from becoming a speech therapist. My high school was in fact the first school in my district to have the education course with LSU. With that being said, it was a very small class with four students, and we were definitely the guinea pigs for the upcoming years. As I was in the class, I had the opportunity to work with so many students in elementary school and observe how different teachers teach their students. I was the only student in the class who has into becoming a speech therapist. All the other girls were there for teaching and I knew my heart was set the moment I stepped foot in the school. I took it upon myself to ask my instructor at the elementary school to see if I could watch the speech therapist help the handful of students, they pull out of class each day. Having a chance to tell my story, explain why I want to have the same job as her made us both feel good. I went into great detail about adversity and how hard it's been for me. After she pulled her students, I had a wonderful time watching the teacher help her students with the most difficult sounds it's hard to pronounce. These 18 years I've learned how to work around my most difficult problems. The one thing I want is to help children with their own problems that may be extremely hard to fix alone. There is nothing in this world that can stop me from what I love the most!!

I've chosen to pursue my career as a speech therapist. As a senior in high school I've become more attached to kids in elementary school and I love nothing more than to help them. I've always had a soft spot for working with children and have planned to became a speech therapist at the age of 12. As a student with cerebral palsy, I've grown up with other students with special needs. My drive and ambition to work with kids has grown tremendously over these last two years of high school. Becoming a speech therapist with kids gives you multiple places you can potentially work at. The two main options are working in an elementary school or a private SLP office. Working in a school will most likely mean students will mention you as the "speech teacher." Becoming a speech teacher has always been the one thing I want to achieve. I love watching the student's faces glow up as they learn something new. Becoming a speech therapist will make me become more comfortable as I grow myself. I'm a very shy person, I may be good with kids but my shyness can become an issue. To pursue a career as a speech therapist at a school will mean the world to me. Kids who need help want it more than anything. Becoming a speech therapist at a school will help my students grow and potentially help them with their own confidence. I've studied the way speech therapist work, I know I can do it but getting there is the one thing that may be extra hard. We need more speech therapist in Louisiana as well, it's the one thing in school that students need the most. I'll be more than happy to help students with their problems and help them grow. Nobody wants to insecure about the most important thing, the way you speak. I want to change that, help children and their families who are also affected by the issue or speech impediment. I know what it takes to be insecure about something you can't change. Helping kids feel better about themselves will make my day, every single day I work. Long days are coming ahead of me but I'm ready for what is in store for me. Kids have always made me feel special, I can't wait to work with them as a living one day. It'll all be worth it!!

As my senior year comes to close, I've recently been thinking about far I've come just because of my parents and everything they've done for me. During the storm of Katrina, my mother suffered from preeclampsia which made for a high risk pregnancy. The storm ruined so many lives and made it difficult for many families to make it through that time. I was born just a week after Katrina while things were still disasterous. At some point during Katrina or soon after I suffered a stroke in utero causing severe brain damage with a final diagnosis of Cerabral Palsy as well as Epilepsy. It is believed that the stress from Katrina paired with the preeclampsia caused this. Being my parents first child, learning about my disability and trying to navigate uncharted waters was incredibly difficult. Hearing that I'd never be able to walk or talk and I’d most likely be in a wheelchair and severely handicapped must have been earth shattering. It was devastating for my parents, they had no clue what to do and nobody was there to help them. It was at that moment that my mother decided to become a stay at home mom instead of pursuing a college degree to try and give me the best chance at life. Years of physical and occupational therapy in addition to seizure medication daily have been very helpful but things are far from easy. Having Cerebral Palsy has always been difficult for me. Fortunately, I’m lucky enough to have beat the odds and can walk and talk. I can only use my left hand, it’s impossible for me to do anything with my right hand or anything bilateral to succeed at a task. My mother gave up her life just to stay by my side to make my own life as well as school such a great experience. Both my my parents have wanted nothing but the best for me. In elementary school, my mom took years to get me into a magnet school and 5th grade was the year I was finally able to get in. As my last year comes to a close, I've become more determined to become a speech therapist. My parents have helped me get to this point, they've both taken sacrifices to help me through the next chapter of my life. I can't say I know what I'll do to pay it forward to them but I do know whatever it is has to be worth it. My mother dropped everything to give me the best life possible, the very least I can do is reward them with such a great gift. All my life I've been told to "go with my gut" and "follow my heart." I've done that, becoming a speech therapist is just that and my parents are the only two people that have impacted me and scarified their decisions just for me. I'm beyond thankful for the life they've given me. Everything has been handed to me, to pay it forward one day will make it all worth it. I live my parents, I want to give them the best live possible once I'm able to do so.

I'm Maya McInnis, a senior here in Baton Rouge Louisiana. As my senior year comes to a close i've grown a love for working with elementary school students. When I was born, it was just a week after the horrendous storm of Katrina hit the South. My mother suffered from preeclampsia which made for a high risk pregnancy. At some point during Katrina or soon after I suffered a stroke in utero causing severe brain damage with a final diagnosis of Cerabral Palsy as well as Epilepsy. It is believed that the stress from Katrina paired with the preeclampsia caused this. Hearing that I'd never be able to walk or talk and I’d most likely be in a wheelchair and severely handicapped must have been earth shattering. It was devastating for my parents, they had no clue what to do and nobody was there to help them. These eighteen years have been quite the roller coaster, years of physical and occupational therapy in addition to seizure medication daily have been very helpful but things are far from easy. Having Cerebral Palsy has always been difficult for me. Fortunately, I’m lucky enough to have beat the odds and can walk and talk. I can only use my left hand, it’s impossible for me to do anything with my right hand or anything bilateral to succeed at a task. I often have to teach myself an alternate way of doing things that are difficult for me. Every day things that seem insignificant to most like tying shoes, doing my own hair, or even using a knife are a no go for me. Cerebral Palsy can make me feel left out if I’m being honest, there are so many fun activities that I often can’t do because it’s too dangerous or just impossible. I’ve known for as long as I could remember that I wanted to pursue a career where i could help people, specifically children with disabilities. Being restricted physically may stop me from many things but it will not stop me from obtaining an college education. For years now, I’ve told everyone that perusing a degree in speech pathology is my goal. When I set a goal I become determined to do it to the best of my ability. I’ll be the first in my family to become a college graduate, the plan right now is to get my Master’s degree. The thought of being able to help children the same way I was helped is exhilarating. As I start this new chapter of my life, my plan is to find myself a job to stay busy and not rush into anything. I believe that rushing into school gives you such a bad time-line that could potentially cause issues. I'll be taking my time, I know what I want and I'll be working towards that but I don't want to rush myself or even my family.

I've always loved teaching kids, at a young age I knew that working with children was what I wanted to do. I went from playing teacher as a young child to getting the chance to work with kids at an elementary school in my town. I'm in a program that is specifically for seniors who want to become a teacher one way or another. I don't want to be a teacher, I want to be a speech therapist and potentially work at an elementary school. Growing up and watching students with special needs is where it all started. In middle school, I would help my physical education teacher with each student and their needs. I had known my coach for years before everyone else and she felt comfortable giving me a chance with my peers. Helping in the classroom made me realize that helping students is what I'm meant to do. Since middle school, I've grown to have a love for speech therapy and how it works. I already knew that helping is what I want and it's teaching as well. Not to mention, becoming a speech therapist with elementary school students is perfect for me. I've always had a drive to work with kids, to become a speech therapist is the one thing I want. As my senior year comes to an end, my drive to become a teacher to students with speech impediments has grown tremendously. I know what it's like to be different, as a kid you never want to be picked on and all I want is to prevent that for my students. Teachers always want what's best for their students, even when I become a speech therapist I want the same thing as any other educator. To make my kids feel as if they're at home is something that will make a huge difference in these children's lives. You never know what a child's home life is like. Hypothetically, a student may have a terrible home life and part of the reason they come to school is to escape for a while. If that were ever the case, I would have that drive to provide them the help that they need. Students need breaks, my drive to become an educator has come from watching I've worked with the past year. This year, I've become a future educator during the LSU Foundation of Education class with three other students. Working with the students in elementary school has helped me gain this drive to help in any which way is possible.

As my senior year comes to a close, I've grown a habit of counting down the last few weeks of school. This chapter is coming to a close and it's beyond terrifying to say the least but i'm excited to see whats next for me. This past year, I've been researching what it takes to become a speech therapist. I've always been wonderful with kids and the one thing I want to do is help kids one way or another. It takes a lot of work to become certified to work with children. As my high school years come to a close, I want to name the new chapter "The Real World." Once I graduate I'll be dealing with the real world and all the hardships that come along with it. My plan right now is to get into college that's close to home. LSU is the best option but it's also a very expensive for just one single semester. To get a Master's degree to become a speech therapist takes at least 6 years and that's a pricey future. I'm calling the next chapter of my "The Real World" because it's going to become real and scary the second I graduate from high school. I would say I'm prepared for this next chapter but not everything happens as perfect as you may picture it. To start this new chapter after I graduate is the most important thing for myself to achieve as of right now. As I've said before, LSU is definitely the best option but I'll be taking my time. I'm not on a time-line that has a absurd deadline, as I start this "The Real World" chapter I'll begin it with finding myself a good job. After that, I may start school at a community college here in Baton Rouge. Life has become more difficult for me, I've recently touched the top of the ice burg when it comes to becoming an adult with real world issues and problems that need to be done. I already know that this next chapter of my life with be long, terrifying, and overwheming but I'm ready for it!!

After high school, I plan on getting a Master's to become a speech therapist. As I work with young children, I plan on working as hard as possible to inspire them to want to grow and become better. All I want is to help, I love kids and I'm great while working with them. As a teenager with cerebral palsy, I've grown up with many uncomfortable situations and I personally know how terrible that feeling is. I plan on not on working with the children but also growing a great relationship to where they trust me. To get the kids to trust me is my first goal once I get to that point. Student's who need speech therapy are clearly there for some type of reason, as the teacher I want to inspire them how to grow as individuals outside of the classroom. No matter who the child is or how old they are, I want them to trust me and feel comfortable within themselves. As a very quiet person, my biggest fear used to be scared of asking for help when I needed it the most. I want to give my kids the chance to feel free when they're with me. I want to inspire kids to become to love themselves no matter the case. Speech therapists all around the world work so very hard to teach students how to fix their struggles. As I become an SLP after college, I plan on working with kids to help them understand themselves a bit more. I always look forward to seeing kid's faces light up when they see me, it's such a great feeling to have and makes me feel unbelievably excited for the near future. As of right now, I'm a senior in high school and I've become a student teacher for an LSU Foundation of Education class my school has offered this year. We're a class of four girls, it's all very new to us as well as our school. It's a wonderful feeling to help teachers and grow relationships with the class of 25 2nd graders. To make my students feel good is the only thing I want for them. Even when I become a speech therapist, the one thing I want to achieve is to inspire my students to grow even after I help them with speech classes.

If I were to make a crossover Disney episode, I'd choose Shake it Up and Hannah Montana to bring their two worlds together. The episode would start off with Cece Jones and Rocky Blue lounging at home watching a dance competition in their hometown Chicago. Now we both know that Cece and Rocky have the huge dream of becoming professional dancers. A few weeks ago, there was an announcement on the news in which the one and only Hannah Montana was coming to Chicago to have a concert with two lucky girls who are able to join her. Right after the dance competition, they switched the channel to the news to find out who won the tickets to spend the long night with Hannah. Now, many girls around the age of both Cece ans Rocky signed up to becoming lucky enough but Cece become doubtful and scared that they wouldn't be picked. In a matter of two minutes, they announced that Cece Jones and Rocky Blue were to the two girls who were picked for the time of their lives. Now, it was insane they both got this lucky and began to cry over where they would be 24 hours from then. The girls didn't sleep that night, they prepared of the next day while blasting Hannah's music for everyone to hear. This was the first time that Hannah Montana chose to do this at a concert and she became more and more excited by the minute to meet Cece and Rocky. As the sun went down and the moon awoke, the two girls entered the venue and went behind the stage to meet their idol. It became hard for Rocky to not burst into tears because of how starstruck she was along with Cece. Hannah showed up in the room where Cece and Rocky were, they talked for a bit and made fools of themselves because of what was going on. Montana told the girls what would happen. she went into detail about how the fans may cause issues because they weren't chosen. The night before, fans of Hannah became angry as they read about Cece and Rocky being picked. "It can be really dangerous and scary out there for you guys." Hannah explained. Hannah and her family were used to this, the girls had never preformed for anyone and there were 650,000 in this venue just to see Hannah sing. Hannah along with Cece and Rocky went on stage, the lights were bright and the 650,000 fans screaming shocked everyone on stage. Over the matter of a few minutes, fans on the floor became devastated and angry and Cece and Rocky were even up there dancing with the entrance song. It was dangerous, scary to say the least and the fans started running on stage to get their shot to be with Montana. No matter where the girls went fans tried to get to them. It was at that moment that Hannah called the show off due to people getting hurt. She didn't want to but calling it off was the only that would've stopped people from being out-of-pocket. The episode comes to close when Cece, Rocky, and Hannah go behind the stage to talk about what happened. Nothing about that was normal and by the end of the night Cece and Rocky got a great experience with a few up's and down's to it. Hannah Montana's next show was in Boston MA, she invited the girls to the next show with all expenses paid.

My mother has been my ride-or-die since day one, quite literally. Since the day I was born, she's been by my side through everything and I can't thank her enough. When I was born, the doctors informed my parents that I had a stroke in utero that caused severe brain damage and a final diagnosis of Cerebral Palsy as well as Epilepsy. My mother has given me the drive and power to succeed after I graduate high school. She's always wanted the best for me, as soon as they knew I had a stroke she dropped everything for me. When I was born, it was at that moment that my mother decided to become a stay-at-home mom instead of pursuing a college degree to try and give me the best chance at life. She gave up her life just for me, most moms wouldn't do that as quickly as she did. My mom just wants the best for me, she has shaped me into the power-driven person I've become. The past eighteen years have been quite the rollercoaster and she has shown me everything I know. My mom has made me realize that anything is possible for me. It sounds cliche but it's beyond true. Growing up with a disability hasn't always been easy, but to have a person to grow with and learn ways around certain activities with me is beyond amazing. I would love nothing more than to become a speech therapist to work with little kids one day. My mom is the only person who has helped me figure out college, it's quite confusing and overwhelming and she's been very, very, helpful. No matter what happens, she supports me and my decisions. She inspires me to be the best I can possibly be and do everything with 100% power. My mom constantly gives me such amazing life lessons that I'll keep in mind for years to come. No matter what I do wrong, she encourages me to keep going even further to do a better job. Over the last few years, I've grown to feel even more thankful for how much she does for me. For the last eighteen years, she has stayed home to get me the best possible life. Sometimes I feel beyond spoiled by having such a loving, amazing, mother who does everything in her to keep me happy and healthy. She never gives up, if things get hard she'll power through and keep going. My mama is my rock, she deserves the world because of how wonderful she is to me. No matter how hard I can be on her, she never ever gives up. There is nobody like my sweet mama, I love her so much and she's my best friend.

I've always been interested in teaching students in elementary school, and for as long as I can remember I've almost always been intrigued by speech therapists. As a teenager with Cerebral Palsy, I've grown up around peers my age who need speech therapy and I've always been fascinated by how well the help can improve one's speech. My dream career is to become a speech therapist, I have a strong desire to help children who may battle with a speech impediment. I've always been excellent with children and I know how much energy it takes to work with the little ones. Becoming a speech therapist is truly the one thing I desperately want to become after college. I'm currently in a Foundation of Education with three other students who will become teachers in elementary schools al well. A few months ago, I had the wonderful opportunity to watch a speech therapist work with students to try to help their speech impediments. It was at that moment that I fell in love with the job, nothing will change my mind about it. In elementary and middle school I had a physical education teacher who changed my view of teaching at a very young age. Coach Anderson was the only teacher who made me feel something special inside, she made me realize that my job is to work with students one day. In middle school, I was in her class with other students very similar to me. The class was small but all the students had disability as well. I was the only student she had known well enough so she made me feel right at home. In the class, every other day we would work out and she would teach me how to work with students who may have even worse disabilities than myself. I was the one student who would help everyone else and it was a feeling that I loved. I was too young to understand it, but as I'm looking back I can see that Coach Anderson helped me change my perspective on teaching. She helped me a ton, at the young age of 13 we would talk about the future like I had a clue. Throughout the three years of middle school, I grew to love teaching her class more and more. To become a speech therapist will give me that exhilarating experience that I've been craving. I love to help people, helping little kids will make my day ten times better. I know what I'm meant to do and my gut tells me to work with children. As a senior in high school, I've become more determined to set my goal and achieve it. As of right now, I need to get through the last few months and graduate. I can't wait to see what the future holds for me!!!

As of right now, my education goal is to get the best grades possible in all of my eight classes. As a senior, I've been focused on doing all my work correctly to have all A's. After graduating in May, I plan on looking into my top college LSU to see what I need to do. I want to be a speech therapist to help children in elementary school. I'm wonderful with kids and have always been that way. Becoming a speech therapist is the one thing I want to do and work toward over the next few years. To achieve my goal of becoming a speech therapist I need to be in school to get a Master's degree. Getting a Master's degree takes a lot of work and many years of college, I've become more excited by the minute to start school after I graduate senior year. This scholarship will help me pay for the necessities during my freshman year. My cousin who is currently at LSU has informed me that textbooks can sometimes be quite pricey. This scholarship will help me pay for the necessities to get through school. I need to save as much money as possible to pay for things that I'll need the most. School is expensive, I'll need help along the way to be able to pay for it but my parents can't do it alone. I've been applying for many scholarships to help my parents out. I'm beyond grateful for them and what they do for me but LSU or any other college is way more expensive than I thought. I have my future planned out, I've wanted to be a speech therapist since I was in middle school so I've become determined to do what I truly want. The next step as of right now is to graduate, get through the next few months of school, and do my very best to finish of all the hardships and goals I've set for myself. School has always been fun for me, I've always loved doing certain assignments and on May 9th, it'll be over with. I can't wait to end this chapter and start the new one. It may take a lot of work to get there but no matter what I know it'll be worth it. Thanks to scholarships and my parents, I'll be at a wonderful school to become the only thing I want to be, a speech therapist!!!

I'm Maya McInnis and I'm currently a senior in high school. I suffered a stroke in utero causing severe brain damage with a final diagnosis of Cerebral Palsy as well as Epilepsy. The doctors told my parents that I'd never be able to walk or talk and I'd have to be in a wheelchair. I've overcome everything the doctors told my parents that day, I'm fully capable of walking, talking, and I've never been in a wheelchair. I can only use my left hand, it’s impossible for me to do anything with my right hand or anything bilateral to succeed at a task. I often have to teach myself an alternate way of doing things that are difficult for me. Every day things that seem insignificant to most like tying shoes, doing my own hair, or even using a knife are a no-go for me. Cerebral Palsy can make me feel left out if I’m being honest, there are so many fun activities that I often can’t do because it’s too dangerous or just impossible. I’ve known for as long as I can remember that I wanted to pursue a career where I could help people, specifically children with disabilities. Being restricted physically may stop me from many things but it will not stop me from obtaining a college education. For years now, I’ve told everyone that persuing a degree in speech therapy is my goal. When I set a goal I become determined to do it to the best of my ability. My life has been a rollercoaster full of ups and downs that have shaped me into the young woman that I am today. Most of my help has come from my family, and I'm beyond thankful for them. Growing up with Cerebral Palsy has shown and taught me so much, it has shown me that helping kids is all that I want to do. Just because I'm different won't stop me from working up to what I truly want after high school. The thought of being able to help children the same way I was helped is exhilarating. I’m fortunate enough that my parents have worked so hard for me to get this far and I’m beyond thankful for them and what they’ve done for me. When I make it to college, I’ll be proving to everyone that anything is possible if you set your mind to it.

I'm Maya McInnis a senior here in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. I've recently started my last semester of school and have been researching what is necessary for college. I'm not in any extracurricular activities but I've become interested in helping others that need help the most. As a teenager with Cerebral Palsy, I've grown up learning how to overcome obstacles that are difficult for me to do with only my left hand. I have taught myself the easier ways around certain activities. With that being said, throughout school, I have always been around peers of mine who have different types of disabilities and tend to need more help than me. I strongly believe that being in a special education classroom has changed my perspective on what I've chosen to do as my future career. After high school, I plan on going to college to get a Master's degree to later become a speech therapist with kids from kindergarten into 5th grade. Helping children is what I love to do, I believe that I have a very special connection with kids who I work with. I'm involved with an LSU Education class to become a teacher and just over the past few months I've grown to have a wonderful relationship with the classroom I've been assigned to. If I were to start my charity, I'd choose to raise money for children of all ages with disabilities to have a chance to get their necessities if money is an issue within the family. Whether it be hospital bills, medicines, or even wheelchairs, I would love to be able to help as many families as possible. To provide help building a ramp for a wheelchair or other needs is something else I'd also love to include with my charity. My volunteers will find families in need and do everything in their power to meet the families and children's needs or even wants. Hospital bills can become outrageous, so providing that money will help out more than I will ever know. As a teenager with a disability, I know how hard certain things may be on parents and loved ones. I understand the stress it puts parents through when certain events happen and all I want to do is help families who are in desperate need of help. I'd be more than happy to meet any needs and wants of the guardians of a child with special needs. All I want to do is to help, I've started to plan out my future but all that matters to me is I make a difference in people's lives. I very much dislike watching people suffer, helping out as much as possible will make my day ten times better.

Over the years, I've become more and more driven to work towards my future of becoming a speech therapist. I'm different, definitely not like everybody else with Cerebral Palsy. These eighteen years have become interesting to say the very least with everything I've been through and done. I've developed my skills over time by learning my way around certain things such as cooking or doing my hair. Every single day is an obstacle that I have to pass through and I've learned my way around these obstacles by coming up with ways to do them with my left hand. It's become my purpose to help others with their problems because watching people glow up is a feeling that I love to have. To become the one person helping certain kids with speech impediments is my dream job. With the skills that I've learned, becoming a speech therapist and helping the little ones make my day. I don't want to do anything else but work with elementary school students. I believe I've developed these skills for more reasons than I know. I think that I've become so good with little kids that it's what I'm meant to do. I've always had a soft part for kids, even when I was younger I'd go around and help anyone else who was even younger than me. Becoming adapted to helping kids with special needs has also played a big role in what has helped me develop my skills and even my passion for helping others with what I would love to do shortly. Growing up with a disability has made me have a tough time but the skills I've learned have led me to this moment. Having this power to get what I want is what's helping me the most. I've always had some sort of passion to help others, but as I get older I want to help whichever way I can. Nothing will stop me from doing what I love the absolute most. Everyone wants to be the best that they can possibly be. I just want to help little kids grow and learn how to go on with their day without feeling insecure. All I've ever wanted is to help, help anyone, and make them feel better about themselves at the end of the day. Nothing will ever stop me from chasing my dreams. I have a long way to get there but I know it's possible!!

I'm Maya McInnis and my story is a bit all over the place for the most part. I'm eighteen years of age and currently a senior in high school preparing for the college life that is soon to be heading my way. During the Katrina Flood of 2005, I had a stroke in utero which caused severe brain damage to me. A week after the Flood, the doctors told my first-time parents that I had a stroke and along with that, I'd have severe Cerebral Palsy and Epilepsy. This caused my parents to have a tough time because they had no clue what to do. My parents were lost, they had no clue what to do because they never had any help. One doctor in particular said I'd never be able to walk, or talk, and I'd have to be in a wheelchair. I've beat the odds because I'm doing everything they said I couldn't do. These eighteen years I've learned how to do everything with my left hand without having a struggle. My mother is my motivation, she drives me to reach for my goals and get what I want the very most. Now that I'm in high school, I've got to crack down on these last few months and work so very hard to get into my top college LSU. My overall goal is to become a speech therapist and work with elementary school students. I've always been great with little kids, my family has helped me find my path throughout the years to find that one thing I've become driven to do shortly. Before I get to that point, I need to get into a good enough college to understand even more what it takes to become a speech therapist.

So far, I can say with everything in me that my mental health is wonderful!! I've been in such a great place lately and that is exactly what I need for this time of year to do all of the necessary college things. I'm in my senior year, it's a very stressful feeling with so much work to do before next school year. My mental health currently is at the best it's been in a long time and I feel amazing. I can't even start to imagine where I would be if my mental state was still as bad as it was a year ago. As I've said, I'm in a great state as of right now and that's everything I need to have the confidence to get into a good enough college. Last year, my mental state was horrible and I don't think many people around me could tell. It was so bad kept it to myself for a while, it took me months to open up to my friends at school. Almost all of last year in 2022, I was in my first relationship and it was a roller coaster of emotions for me. For the first few months, my mental health was amazing, I was happy and nothing was wrong with me. As the months went on, I became more and more sad with myself and my boyfriend at the time. I became lost and didn't know what to do with myself, being naive didn't help at all because all I wanted was to be free. The relationship I was in took it out of me, I felt drained and my family knew for months before I brought it to their attention. At school, I started to tell my closest friends and they helped me feel a little bit better about myself. My friends and family made me notice that my mental health was terrible because of the relationship I was in. I became so tired and mentally drained that I felt like giving up which wasn't going to do anything but hurt the people I love the most. In December, I got broken up with, I was free and at first, it didn't feel real. It's what I wanted for my mental health but didn't know what to feel in the moment. I began to tell myself that becoming free is what I've needed the most in a long time. Over the first few months of 2023, I grew to dislike who I was the year before, I knew that I didn't know what I was doing. My mental health was so bad that I didn't understand what to do with myself. Now, I'm happier than ever!!!

"Once upon a time in Hollywood" to me means a deeper meaning than expected from most people. When I was little, I always thought that Hollywood was amazing, that everything was perfect and nothing bad happened. But, as I'm getting older, I can see that Hollywood isn't always good and has almost always had so,e type of problem with many people. Hollywood is a crazy place, it's amazing and devastating all at the same time. Hollywood to me has always been a little rough, from the very beginning, even before my own parents were born, there were bad things happening that tend to be put out there because it's the "It place to be." "Once upon a time in Hollywood" to me means, at the very start of everything, things were pretty good and nothing was bad. As you can imagine, over the years there have many issues in the area of Hollywood with people with big names such as O.J Simpson, Olive Thomas, and Britney Spears who we still have issues with today. Things in Hollywood aren't great, there are too many scandals and problems with celebrities and fans that cause some of these problems. Hollywood used to be decent, it used to be an okay place to be. For a while, there weren't as many problems, Hollywood didn't have dangerous things going on at first before it became the "place to be." Now, we can see at least one new scandal in Hollywood happening every week. It's almost rare for anything not to happen for a while. I personally think it's sad how unsettling Hollywood can be, it's not always bad but terrible things usually happen a lot there. "Once upon in Hollywood, there were wonderful things, everything was good in 1911 when it was first founded. Now, we can see murders, overdoses, and celebrities being treated horrendously. There was a Golden Era of Hollywood, it was between the years of 1927 and 1969, the film industry was amazing and things were terrific. Once upon a time, Hollywood was great, things were more than amazing and everything was decent and not so bad. Things have changed and I don't like it, it's going downhill fast and it'll stay like that for a long time. The Golden Era was for a while but I don't think we'll see anything like that again. Hollywood was once a grate place, that's no longer the case and it breaks my heart.

I'm Maya McInnis and I had a stroke in utero which has caused me to have Cerebral Palsy and Epilepsy. My medical conditions have caused me to struggle with everyday activities that may be super simple for everyone else. Cerebral Palsy can make me feel left out if I’m being honest, there are so many fun activities that I often can’t do because it’s too dangerous or just impossible for me to do. I can only use my left hand, it’s impossible for me to do anything with my right hand or anything bilateral to succeed at a task. Years of physical and occupational therapy in addition to seizure medication daily have been very helpful but things are far from easy. Having Cerebral Palsy has always been difficult for me. Fortunately, I’m lucky enough to have beat the odds and can walk and talk. Becoming this lucky has been amazing, as of right now, I have many goals for my future but my top goal for this upcoming month is to get a great ACT score to later apply for LSU here in my hometown of Baton Rouge. I recently got the ACT prep books so I've been studying for the December 9th date at Baton Rouge High School. I’ve known for as long as I can remember that I wanted to pursue a career where I could help people, specifically children with disabilities. Being restricted physically may stop me from many things but it will not stop me from obtaining a college education. For years now, I’ve told everyone that pursuing a degree in speech pathology is my goal. When I set a goal I become determined to do it to the best of my ability. I’ll be the first in my family to become a college graduate, the plan right now is to get my Master’s degree. The thought of being able to help children the same way I was helped is exhilarating. I’m fortunate enough that my parents have worked so hard for me to get this far and I’m beyond thankful for them and what they’ve done for me. I've had a set plan to become a speech therapist for so long that I don't think I'd find anything else just as interesting for me to do as a career. When I make it to college, I’ll be proving to everyone that anything is possible if you set your mind to it.

I'm Maya McInnis and currently a senior here in Baton Rouge Louisiana! I'm eighteen years old and have been spending much of my school year so far getting ready for college. I had a stroke in utero which caused me to have severe brain damage along with Cerebral Palsy and Epilepsy. When I was born, the doctors told my parents I'd never be able to walk or talk and I would have to be in a wheelchair. Well, I've proved those doctors wrong and have done everything they said I wouldn't be able to do. Having Cerebral Palsy has always been difficult for me. Fortunately, I’m lucky enough to have beat the odds and can walk and talk. I can only use my left hand, it’s impossible for me to do anything with my right hand or anything bilateral to succeed at a task. Being different hasn't set me back much, it may be hard to do simple tasks such as chopping vegetables or doing my hair but that's okay. I work around my struggles and do everything in my power to do it and do it correctly. I love kids, they make me so happy and it's amazing how they make me feel when I'm around them. To have the ability to work with kids makes me feel thrilled, to say the least. I've always been nothing but amazing with children so having the chance to work with them as a living makes me feel delighted! I’ve known for as long as I can remember that I wanted to pursue a career where I could help people, specifically children with disabilities. Being restricted physically may stop me from many things but it will not stop me from obtaining a college education. For years now, I’ve told everyone that pursuing a degree in speech pathology is my goal. When I set a goal I become determined to do it to the best of my ability. I’ll be the first in my family to become a college graduate, the plan right now is to get my Master’s degree. The thought of being able to help children the same way I was helped is exhilarating. I’m fortunate enough that my parents have worked so hard for me to get this far and I’m beyond thankful for them and what they’ve done for me. When I make it to college, I’ll be proving to everyone that anything is possible if you set your mind to it.

I'm on team Jeremiah all day!!!! From the start, I had a soft spot for Jeremiah because of the way he treated everyone. Many people think that Conrad was the "good" brother and in some cases that's true but not all the time. Conrad did multiple things during each season that was a crap thing to do and was out of pocket. In my opinion, Belly is the toxic one in the show, she treated everyone so badly including her mother at the end of the last season. Jeremiah wants the best for people, he does his best to make everyone happy and tries to engage himself in situations that Conrad may think are unnecessary. Jeremiah always put his friends and family first, he rarely did anything for himself before helping Belly or his mom with something. Jeremiah is a very considerate person while Conrad doesn't care about anyone but himself. For the most part, he hid his feelings from people when times for him were tough. When he was struggling with the death of his mother, he did his best to hide his feelings in front of Belly to try to find Conrad when he ran away without saying anything. Conrad was just plain write rude to people, he treated his family and friends like crap and it wasn't fair to his mother before she died of Cancer in between the two seasons. Conrad never hid his feelings and ran away from home when times were tough, he didn't want to stay at the house to keep it from getting sold to the family that were interested in it. He didn't care about the fact that Belly and Jere were struggling with the grief and house issues with their aunt. I think that Conrad is super inconsiderate and selfish in the way he acts. At the end of the last season, Jere are Belly end up getting together because it was hard for them to stay friends. Jeremiah wanted something and he got it even if Conrad and Belly used to date before them. It is rude to date your brother's ex without thinking about Conrad's feelings but being with Belly is the first thing that he got for himself for a long time. Jere became happy again after the death of his mother, he was struggling and later on, became happy in the end. I'm on team Jeremiah because he treats Belly, his friends, and his family better than Conrad ever did. Even when they were all kids, Jere included himself and tried to make Belly feel more comfortable in their house when it was that time of year every year.

My mother has been my inspiration for as long as I can remember, she's stuck by my side throughout everything I've been through. My first ever break up, first boyfriend, school, fights with friends or other family, she's been through it all with me. My mom is amazing in so many ways and means the absolute world to me but there aren't enough words to thank her for everything she's done for me. My mother drives me to have the power to do whatever I want, she's always been that way and I can't thank her enough for that. For as long as I can remember, I've known that working with kids who have special needs is what I want to do. That's been my overall goal for all of high school and some of middle school and I plan on sticking to this plan. My mom has always said I'm good with kids, now that I'm older I understand where she's getting that from. Becoming a speech therapist takes a lot of work and I have an overwhelming idea it'll be a bumpy road ahead but I have it with the help from my mother. She encourages me to pick my future career of being a speech therapist, she knows exactly what I want and helps me get to where I need to be. She has supported me since the day I was born, knowing I'm different because of the stroke in utero I had, she stuck by my side through thick and thin. As I'm getting older, I need her help more and more, especially with college coming right around the corner. No matter what she's doing, she'll stop it just to come help me prepare for the real world, it's coming soon and she wants the absolute best for me. She has inspired me to go to college to get my Master's Degree in communication and sciences disorders to later on achieve my overall goal of becoming a speech therapist. I can't thank her enough, everything I've done over the past four years in high school has led up to working my way to college. She is the reason I haven't given up, I wouldn't want to give up but when I struggle she's the only one to get me back up on my feet. The only woman in my life who has inspired me to take this path is my mother, she's who drives me to what I need.

Some may say that they don't know who or what their greatest driving force is. But, this question for me is the easiest for me to answer. My mom is my greatest driving force she gives me the motivation to do whatever is on my mind. She's always there for me, I've been so lucky to make such great memories these eighteen years because of her. I'm a little bit different, I have cerebral palsy which was caused by severe brain damage during the stroke in utero. My mom has stayed by my side, she takes care of me and I'm beyond thankful for everything she's done for me. My mother encourages me to do everything to the best of my abilities and helps me when I need it the most. She doesn't give up on me and that's what I'm thankful for the most. As soon as I was born she put her career on hold to watch over me. Now that I'm older, she has gone into detail about my birthing story and what happened. Both my mother and father had a hard time when I was first born so they did everything in their power to get the best for me. They had nobody helping them, they did everything on their own with no one to motivate them and drive them the correct way. That's why my mom is my greatest driving power, she never had that as a child and young adult so she's giving me what she never had. I'm beyond thankful for everything she's done for me, it's been a bumpy road but my family and I've all made it this far thanks to my wonderful, talented, brilliant mother. I'm so very lucky to be this fortunate to have the help I get every day. I know not everyone gets as lucky as me so to have my mother by my side through it all means a lot. There aren't enough words to describe how amazing she is. My mother is my biggest driving force, she pushes me to get what I want and get to where I need to be. My mom is the one and only person I'll go to if I need help for anything because she's the main one I trust the most. I love her with all my heart and I know the older I get the more she'll drive me to get what I need.

I started high school in 2020, very nervous about what was ahead of me. Freshman year was a breath of fresh air and I loved the new things I was able to do in school with a bit more freedom. In sophomore year, my English teacher Ms. Boullion was my very favorite teacher. I'm in my senior year but to this day I think she's the best. Ms. Bouillion made learning fun, I made new friends in her class but I just loved the overall class because of her. I would go to her if I needed help with anything, and she'd help me with it. The people in the class were great but Ms. Bouillion helped me through some stuff. Even now, she talks to me and makes me want to stay at school and do my best. She genuinely wants the best for me and wants to help if I need anything from her. She made me realize what I really wanted to do with my life, I knew I wanted to work with kids who have disabilities but she drove me in the right direction to become determined to want this. Ms. Bouillion has been there for me since my sophomore year and I'm thankful she's been by my side throughout the stressful times. Just a few days ago, she was talking to me about college and gave me such wonderful advice on college essays. I've been super stressed out recently and she honestly made me feel just as better about graduating and that entire process. My sophomore year was a rollercoaster of emotions, I was super busy and had a rough school year but she made each school day so much better just by being so happy and bubbly in the classroom. No matter what mood I'm in, she makes me feel so much better. Sounds cliche but, she is the one teacher who made me realize that anything is possible for me even if I'm different. I had a stroke in utero which caused severe brain damage to me. The stroke has caused to have cerebral palsy as well as epilepsy. It's not easy, I struggle every day with some of the simplest things. All four years of high school have been scary leading up to my last year and now that I'm here it's beyond overwhelming. Ms. Bouillon has been my number-one supporter leading up to this moment, she has helped me a lot and definitely set an impact on me.

My middle school Special Education P.E. coach Anderson shaped me into who I am today. I've known her since Kindergarten at my elementary school. I was in regular P.E. with all the other kids but she knew about my disability and knew deep down I didn't want to participate in the activities that were hard for me. She'd let me sit out and watch everyone else play games, little old me admittedly knew she was a good teacher for understanding me. Going into middle school, I was nervous that she wouldn't be there to help me. She ended up being my Special Education P.E. coach and I never felt so happy. All throughout middle school, she bonded with me and told me what to expect once high school came. I had no idea what I'd come into after starting high school in 2020 with COVID-19. Coach Anderson gave me advice, she helped me understand the world of kids who are just a bit different with disabilities. She had known me longer than the other kids she taught at the middle school so we both felt comfortable with each other. Although I was a little kid in middle school, we still talked every single day in school about teaching kids and random stuff. It was still technically a P.E. class so for the most part our workout was walking around our school campus three to four times. She helped me realize that working with children is what I want to pursue and do as a career. She helped me see what it takes to take on the role of becoming an amusing special education physical education teacher. I haven't talked to her one-on-one in about a year but if I had the chance to sit down with her, I'd thank her for helping me get to where I am today. She may think of me as one of many other students she's had all throughout the years but she has really helped me out. I was about five years old when I first met her but ever since the day I was around her, she has always made me feel right at home. Never once was I uncomfortable or scared to talk to her. Coach Anderson has impacted me and inspired me to go into a future career of working with children because she showed me exactly what it takes to be amazing with kids of all ages. Seems hard, but after watching her for nine years I know what it takes. I've never been so impacted by any other teachers like her, she has been by my side throughout most of my childhood up until 2020 and I'm so thankful for everything she's done for me. Being a special education P.E. takes a lot of time out of your day, you never know what you'll deal with or what issues you may face and I've watched Coach be in some intense circumstances with students. Sometimes I felt bad and wanted to chip in to help out but I was still considered her student so it wasn't my place to do so. We never had the chance to talk about college before lockdown started but I know that she knows my dream is to work with children. She inspired me to do the best of the best and go with my gut, she helped me see what it takes and taught me amazing real-world problems that I'll face some time throughout my adult life. I'm beyond thankful for my dear Coach Anderson, I love her so much and she was definitely a part of my career choice.

Some may say I’ve been dealt a bad hand of cards, but for me this is just my everyday life and I’m okay with that. It all started eighteen years ago when I was in my mother’s womb. She suffered from preeclampsia which made for a high risk pregnancy. 2005 was a tough year, Katrina devastated South Louisiana any so many of it’s residents. I was born just a week after Katrina while things were still disasterous. At some point during Katrina or soon after I suffered a stroke in utero causing severe brain damage with a final diagnosis of Cerabral Palsy as well as Epilepsy. It is believed that the stress from Katrina paired with the preeclampsia caused this. Being my parents first child, learning about my disability and trying to navagate uncharted waters was incredibly difficult. Hearing that I'd never be able to walk or talk and I’d most likely be in a wheelchair and severely handicapped must have been earth shattering. It was devastating for my parents, they had no clue what to do and nobody was there to help them. It was at that moment that my mother decided to become a stay at home mom instead of pursuing a college degree to try and give me the best chance at life.Years of physical and occupational therapy in additon to seizure medication daily have been very helpful but things are far from easy. Having Cerebral Palsy has always been difficult for me. Fortunately, I’m lucky enough to have beat the odds and can walk and talk. I can only use my left hand, it’s impossible for me to do anything with my right hand or anything bilateral to succeed at a task. I often have to teach myself an alternate way of doing things that are difficult for me. Every day things that seem insignificant to most like tying shoes, doing my own hair, or even using a knife are a no go for me. Cerebral Palsy can make me feel left out if I’m being honest, there are so many fun activities that I often can’t do because it’s too dangerous or just impossible. I’ve known for as long as I could remember that I wanted to pursue a career where i could help people, specifically children with disabilities. Being restricted physically may stop me from many things but it will not stop me from obtaining an college education. For years now, I’ve told everyone that persuing a degree in speech pathology is my goal. When I set a goal I become determined to do it to the best of my ability. I’ll be the first in my family to become a college graduate, the plan right now is to get my Master’s degree. The thought of being able to help children the same way I was helped is exhilarating. I’m fortunate enough that my parents have worked so hard for me to get this far and I’m beyond thankful for them and what they’ve done for me. When I make it to college, I’ll be proving to everyone that anything is possible if you set your mind to it.

I’ve known for as long as I could remember that as a career I would love to help people, specifically children for that matter. Working with kids as a career is definitely what I would love to do. Being restricted physically may stop me from many things but it will not stop me from obtaining my career choice. I will not let my difficulties stop me from getting in the way of my life, school studies, and career. For years now, I’ve told everyone that being a speech pathologist is what I want to do. When I set a goal, I become determined to do it the best of my abilities. With that being said, my goal is to go to college to later on become a speech pathologist. I’ll be the first in my family to become a college graduate, the plan right now is to get my Master’s degree. My parents didn’t have the chance to become a college graduate, so to become a student this coming year is extremely exciting. I’m fortunate enough that my parents have worked so hard for me to get this far and I’m beyond thankful for them and what they’ve done for me. When I make it to college, I’ll be proving to everyone that anything is possible if you set your mind to it. This scholarship will help my family and I by giving us that extra boost of help. Since neither of my parents went to college, we’re all very long about everything. It’s very confusing without help so to get this scholarship will not only help but will make feel even better about getting into a good school. To become a first-generation college student in my family is extremely important and exciting. My mom could’ve gone to school but she chose to stay home with me since I desperately needed her help because of my cerebral palsy and epilepsy. I’m different, anI needed someone to be with me at all times. She could’ve had the chance to go but her gut was to stay home. Both of my parents have done so much for me, to win this scholarship will help them out as well as me. I plan on going to LSU since it’s extremely close to home and it’s a very pricey school. Winning scholarships is one of very many goals I currently have. I can’t wait to see what the future holds for me!!

I’ve known for as long as I could remember that as a career I would love to help people, specifically children for that matter. So, to become a speech pathologist is what I want to do. I'd love to work with elementary school kids to help them with the problems they may face. For me, my dream job looks like a lot of work but I know I want to do it. Being a speech pathologist will keep me on my feet and give me something to do every day. It may be a really hard task for me because I'm slowed down physically but I have a feeling that I'll love every bit of it. For the career I'm choosing, the most important quality for me is being able to have an impact on the kids that I'd be working with. I'm beyond excited to have a chance to work with kids but I'm even more excited to have some type of impact on them and their families. It'll be such an experience to watch the children grow and feel better about themselves if they feel down about their speech impediments. Kids these days have become so rude to each other so I'd be more than happy to make them feel better if it's something I can help with. I'm extremely ready to help kids and that quality is very good for what I want to do. To be a speech pathologist, you have to be good with kids and I know for a fact I am. You have to know how to work with them and have lots of patience for kids of all ages. I can do it, I know that this career path is what I want. When I set a goal, I become determined to do it to the best of my abilities. With that being said, my goal is to go to college to later on become a speech pathologist. Working with kids as a career is definitely what I would love to do. Being restricted physically may stop me from many things but it will not stop me from obtaining my career choice. I will not let my difficulties stop me from getting in the way of my life, school studies, and career. Having an impact on the kids will have an impact on me and my own family one day, I want that and now I'm determined to achieve my dreams.

After this last year of high school, I plan on going to college to pursue my dreams of becoming a speech pathologist. For as long as can remember, I've always wanted to work with little kids. I'm great with kids so to work with them as a career sounds like a dream to me. But, to achieve my goals of working with kids I need to get my bachelor's degree to do so. I'm pretty much set on going to LSU here in my hometown Baton Rouge. Going to college with as many scholarships will definitely help my family through the years to pay for school. To become a speech pathologist the things I need to study have to be very specific. I've spent a lot of time doing my research and I'm pretty sure that I want to study communication and science disorders. Sounds very overwhelming and it might be but I'm ready for whatever is ahead of me to have my dream job. To achieve my dream of going to college I have to do my best to look into what I need to be doing now before I graduate in May. Going to school to become a speech pathologist is a long process but I'm determined to do whatever is needed. After pursuing college and getting into the real world my plan is to go to one of the best elementary schools here in Baton Rouge to become a part of the staff to help the students there with some type of speech impediment. If that is able to happen then I'd love to be a part of a small organization that isn't a part of a school. No matter what happens and by some chance I get dealt a bad hand of cards, I still think that working with kids no matter what or where I am. But first, I have to do everything in my power to get into a good college so I don't have a year-long break between high school and my freshman of college. As of right now, my one goal as a senior is to get all the important tests dome so I can start applying to my top colleges as soon as possible. I hate to put things on hold but it's all very overwhelming and a lot top take in at once. As overwhelming as it is, I'm still so ready to start thi s new chapter of my life. Let's see what's in store for me!!!

Hi, I'm Maya McInnis and I'm currently a senior in high school. I'm 18 years old and have a while left of my last year here in school but I've been doing everything possible to try to get into my dream college here in Baton Rouge Louisiana. I'm a bit different, I have cerebral palsy and epilepsy. My mother had preeclampsia and I had a stroke in utero which caused me to have severe brain damage. Now, you may think I struggle on an everyday basis, and sometimes that's true depending on the certain thing I'm doing. But, just because I struggle and I'm held back physically that doesn't automatically mean there aren't activities that I can't do. As of right now, I'm doing everything I can to get into my dream college LSU which just so happens to be approximately 25 to 30 from my house. I've been doing lots of research, talking to my cousin who goes to LSU, and applying for scholarships to help my family out. It's a lot to deal with but I know I can do it. I have no choice but to do it because I know for a fact I'm going to college directly after I graduate from high school. I want to make some type of positive impact on people, I love helping so to make an impact on the world through my career makes me feel so happy and bubbly. Being a speech pathologist is my dream, I want to work with kids and help them with their problems. There are many things I could do when it comes to my future career but helping kids with speech sounds the most fun for me. Being a speech pathologist sounds overwhelming but there is definitely a plus side to all this. As my career has been picked, I can say that at some point I will have an impact on this world. Working with kids will have the impact of helping them as much as possible. As a speech pathologist, I'll have the lovely impact of helping the lives of families to their kids who may be struggling. I may not have a great big impact on the world with my future career but I sure will be helping kids and families one way or another. I can't wait for that, I'm beyond happy to be an important life in certain kid's lives!! I have to get there soon but I have a long way to be able to chase my dreams.

My Barbie Dream House will be located in Lafayette Louisiana. It'll be a big house, with about 3 stories and 6 bedrooms. The exterior is white with subtle pink features and lots of pretty plants that gross around the four big columns that hold up the house. The inside is over the top with big grand staircases going both ways up to the second floor into a living room. There are four bathrooms and the biggest one goes into the master bedroom which has many cool features. The master bath has a clawfoot bathtub but a shower and a jacuzzi as well, there is a vanity and multiple drawers for storage and extra towels for guests who may need them. The master bedroom has an Alaskan King bed with light pink sheets and blankets all over it. A big TV sits across the room on the wall with a blush pink velvet couch and a coffee table that holds magazines. In one of the living rooms, it's just for reading, more like a personal library with many different books for all ages. There is a feature that has a dog shower so it isn't difficult for owners to get the bathroom all dirty after washer their pets. Each room is white with pink elements but not too much to where it's hurting the eyes. The kitchen is bigger than two bathrooms combined and holds everything imaginable that one would need to cook or bake. The floors are white along the ceiling but the backsplash is a very light pink that's more of an off-white. The cabinets are that light blush pink that has a mat-ish tone to it. Each room has its own story, it has its own thing that means something to Barbie. In the walk-in closet, everything is put on display and easy to get to. There is a train-like feature that goes round and round holding jewelry and hats for Barbie and her friends. In the middle of the entire Barbie home, there is an elevator so it can be quicker and easier to get from floor to floor. The backyard is a different story, when you open the back door it's almost like a garden, and past that, with all the flowers, it opens up to a big grand pool with three big slides and water fountains that can turn on and off with a push of a button by the outside kitchen with a dishwasher. There are multiple tables to sit at with umbrellas if possible and an outdoor shower and bath. In the garden, there are many different flowers and fruit trees with other spots to grow veggies to cook in whichever kitchen you choose. That's my Barbie Dream House, hope you enjoyed it!!

Im Maya McInnis, am currently a junior in high school, starting the process of planning my college life. As of right now, I'm seventeen years old, turning eighteen in September. Before I was born, I had a stroke in utero which caused me to have Cerebral Palsy. When I was born, in the hospital, the doctors told my parents id never be able to talk or walk. For them, they were new parents and as their first kid, I scared them with CP and later on epilepsy. Through the years, since I was around ten years old, I've taken medicine twice a day every single day to avoid having seizures from epilepsy. When I was ten, I had my first ever seizure when my mom was pregnant with my little brother. Living with CP isn't as hard as you would think. Yes, I know that may be hard to think but I've lived like this my entire life all seventeen years so I teach myself how to work around the obstacles I face. There are many, many things I do on a day-to-day basis with only my left hand. Heck, I do everything on my own with my left hand 24/7. Now, I'm ending my high school years and plan to become a speech pathologist after graduating from college. My background from the very beginning up to now has basically shaped me into who I am right now. I've been around little kids and kids my own age who have disabilities just like me. Being a speech pathologist would have a wonderful, positive impact because it is helping little kids and their speech impediments. Having a job where I would be working with kids and watching their progress after a while of being with them is what I would love to do the most out of every possible job out there. Having a positive impact on the world as well as on kids and their families makes me feel special. Although I haven't even started college yet, I still plan on putting my best effort into making the world a better place and bringing frowns into many smiles as there will be a soon improvement in my job being a speech pathologist. Bringing smiles to faces is what I found joy in. It makes me happy even imagining it, kids in general need help with stuff but if there are extra things that they need help with, I would absolutely love to help and prevent possible bullying.

My all-time favorite on Taylor Swift's 1989 album is Shake It Off, seems corny but for me it's true. 1989 might be one of my favorite albums from Taylor herself but Shake It Off is the best in my honest, true opinion. When I was around nine or ten years old I went to the 1989 World Tour with my cousin and her mom. That was the first ever concert I'd been to and the very last song she sang for us was Shake It Off. She sang it with such power and it was my favorite moment right then and there with the colorful fireworks going off above us in the sky. It was cheery on top, at the time that song wasn't my favorite at all but something changed. Everything was just perfect, she was my favorite music artist back then so to see her in the same stadium in my hometown was very special. The message of the song is just to shake off the hate if someone hates you. Just stay positive, stay happy, don't let people get to you and get into your feelings. It's just altogether a good song that brings people together somehow. I don't know what it is about the song for me but every single time I hear it no matter what mood I'm in, it makes me happy and forget about the stuff I may be feeling at that very moment. The music video even makes me happy in a way. It shows her fans and the world what her personality is and shows that it doesn't matter how people look, dance, or act around one another. She has some of her fans with her in the music video to make it even better if it were just her and the dancers. She lifts people's moods, makes so many people happy, and even helps people get through some rough times that may be present. She even helped me, the song Shake It Off made me feel something when I got broken up with. My boyfriend, now ex, treated me like I wasn't worth his time, and listening to that song make me feel happy and worth something again. Taylor's music helped me through my breakup with both aspects of being sad and happy. Shake It Off has been released for a while and even before I was in middle school but that song in particular means the most to me out of all the other 1989 songs.

The dream version of myself is to become a strong young woman in college studying to become a speech pathologist to watch little kids grow and succeed from their problems.

I thankfully haven't had anything to do with gun violence and I'm lucky enough to still be here with all the school shootings that have sadly been happening through the past few years as they often just get worse and worse. After I graduate high school, I plan on being a speech pathologist, that being said, that would mean I would have to work with kids of all ages if possible. Throughout my career, I want to help kids and their speech issues but I also want to be there for them and comfort them with the issues such as school shootings. As a speech pathologist, all you do is teach people how to talk without having a stutter or any other issues. But, I want to be there for them and make them feel good about themselves by improving their skills but also just not having that scary, overwhelming thought while going to school with the absolutely awful shootings that happen all around the world and mainly in the U.S. Being a support person for little kids with development issues is the best thing possible for them because sometimes having someone to talk to is all they need. Helping them and being their speech pathologist and almost like a therapist is what I want. Being there for the ones who need it most is what I want, I want to teach kids in school that gun violence is nowhere near okay and it needs to be stopped at any point in time. As I'm in my junior year in high school, I've realized that I've been putting such effort into schoolwork that I haven't put the time into being in extracurriculars here at school. Next year, I hope to make a club to prevent gun violence and other things such as bullying drug use, and vape/cigarette use. Here in Louisiana, the number of kids in public high schools with vape use and drug abuse is terrible and nowhere near where it should be considering we are all still so very young. My school is really involved with sports and not so much the gun problems being held. So, I would love to help out and hopefully have an impact on the bigger problems being held around many, many schools mainly high schools. Being in any school activity for my 12th grade will be great and will look great for my top school id love to go to LSU.

I’m very unique in many different ways, I have cerebral palsy and epilepsy, when I was in the womb I had a stroke in utero during the Katrina flood her in Louisiana. I’ve gone all seventeen years learning a new skill to help myself through obstacles every single day. It’s definitely a hard time sometimes when there are obstacles that are almost always impossible for me to succeed and fix. Yes, I’m a bit different from everyone else but just because I have one working hand, that doesn’t stop me from living my life to the fullest extent and doing stuff I love to do. I hate to bring myself down when I’m not able to do a specific thing but they doesn’t stop me from at least trying my hardest to accomplish whatever it may be. I’m a huge family and live kids with all my heart so working with kids all ages is what I would like to possibly do in the future after I graduate high school. My mom always taught me to do my best to help out if there is help need at any point and growing up, I’ve seen many other kids with disabilities who aren’t able to talk or have a tough time speaking in general. Helping kids with speech problems would be such a delight for me to do because I’d be helping out many, many people and families. Sometimes, I’ll be simply watching tv or talk to someone out and public but it absolutely breaks my heart when people, especially kids, have speech issues that are unable to fix without the help that is definitely needed for that type of issue. I think that I’d be giving back to the community by helping many little ones and their families stop an unnecessary or unhelpful situation or issue. I hope to think that me to go to college for helping out with being a speech therapist definitely have an impact to my community as a whole. Being a seventeen year old teenager with a disability, I’ve been around my fair share of other peers with many other different disabilities so I’ve always seen what it’s like to help students out with their mental state. My middle school teacher showed me what it’s like to help non-verbal students and it’s a difficult job but I love kids so much that I’m definitely up for the job to help out. I’ve always been very straight forward and I never procrastinate so being a speech pathologist is definitely up my alley and will definitely help out with my own community!