I dream of being a Doctor of Physical Therapy who owns her own Physical Therapy clinic and an inclusive women's only gym, so women everywhere can work out in a comfortable environment.

Growing up, I was a happy kid, but my teenage years hit hard. Depression and anxiety hit hard. I had problems at home that made me feel misaligned with myself and my family. The summer after high school, I moved across the country for college but couldn't concentrate when my mind was moving so fast. Anxiety is a lot like drinking too much coffee where one's mind is going to one topic just as fast as the next. It felt like my mind was in constant fight or flight. My mind felt like the enemy, and I felt like the only person to blame was myself. Coupled with depression, I had a tough time believing in my abilities. Mental health wasn’t a conversation at the dinner table. And there was such a stigma with it that I didn’t feel I could confide in my family and friends. I quickly understood why all the adults around me were burned out and pessimistic. I was living on my own for the first time. I had to figure out how to be a student full-time, work my part-time job, and somehow have the energy to unpack the trauma I had while living at home. But that was too much to handle as a new adult. So, I took a break, but I would have never imagined that it would be for nearly 4 years. I moved back home and met some fantastic people. They showed me what it meant to live with love for myself and hope for my future. They have given me sustainable, healthy habits that I continue to practice because of the difference in how I relate to and speak to myself. I have since learned how to put my best self forward. And every day is not the best, but I have committed to reaching for the stars. To heal, I adopted healthy life practices such as daily running and strength training, mindfulness yoga, and spirituality. And I participate in social--particularly active social events for connection and accountability. Without the wounds of my past, I don't think I would have been called to become a Physiotherapist. I am excited to become a Physiotherapist like some of my lifestyle role models who have inspired me to treat my temple well. While anxiety and depression aren't curable, they are manageable. My active lifestyle comes from pure necessity for my continued presence on God's green Earth. Believing in one's abilities is so crucial for success. At one point that ability was missing. I forgot who I am, and the beauty of my existence. Not only do I aim to become a Physiotherapist but also, I would like to become an educated fitness, health, and lifestyle influencer. Social media platforms are incredibly important in influencing lifestyle choices in others. And while my work as an in-office Physiotherapist will be impactful, people who cannot afford trainers or Physical Therapists will still need resources. I want to assist those in need by helping them to obtain resources like Durable Medical Equipment and operating on a sliding scale. I want to support people in their journey while battling both seen and unseen chronic pain and injury. I intend to pass on the tools required to begin or continue living a full and happy life, regardless of life's hurdles.