I am a nontraditional student, writer, and advocate pursuing a degree in Psychology with a focus on using my lived experiences to create meaningful change. My path has not been linear. I have navigated early independence, personal loss, addiction, and long term recovery, and I now live with muscular dystrophy as a wheelchair user. These experiences have shaped my perspective and strengthened my commitment to helping others feel seen and understood. I am deeply interested in mental health, addiction recovery, and disability advocacy, particularly where these issues intersect with access to care and education. As a fundraiser and advocate for the Muscular Dystrophy Association, I have helped raise over $2 million through events and galas while using my voice to challenge misconceptions and raise awareness. These experiences have reinforced my belief in empathy, representation, and the power of lived experience. Outside of academics, I am a lyricist and storyteller focused on emotional honesty and human connection. I am also developing a nonprofit initiative, elevateHER Access, dedicated to removing systemic barriers for women and girls with disabilities. My goal is to deepen my understanding of human behavior and expand my ability to advocate and lead. I am committed to using both my voice and my work to challenge stigma and contribute to a more compassionate and equitable world.