At age seven I was diagnosed with epilepsy. The older I got the more interested I became about learning more about the human brain and our minds and how different life events, etc., have an effect on you. My career goal is to become a forensic psychologist, a profession that allows me to combine my passion for understanding human behavior with my interest in the criminal justice system. I plan to pursue a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology along with an Associate’s Degree in Criminology. After completing my undergraduate education, I plan to further my studies by earning a Doctorate in Psychology in order to achieve my long-term goal of becoming a forensic psychologist. My interest in this field began during my freshman year of high school when I chose to pursue a career path in law enforcement. Since then, I have taken intentional steps to explore and prepare for this career. I have studied forensic science and am currently finishing my second year as a ride-along student with the Dalhart Police Department. This hands-on experience has been incredibly valuable, allowing me to observe real-life situations and gain a deeper understanding of how law enforcement operates. It has also helped me make informed decisions about my future, confirming that I want a career that blends psychology with criminal justice. I chose to study both psychology and criminology because I am deeply interested in the connection between human behavior and crime. I want to understand not only what people do, but why they do it. By studying these two fields together, I will gain a well-rounded perspective on the social, environmental, and psychological factors that influence criminal behavior. This knowledge will be essential in helping me analyze cases, understand motives, and contribute to more effective prevention strategies in the future.Looking ahead, I plan to take several additional steps to achieve my career goals. During college, I intend to seek internships and research opportunities related to forensic psychology and criminal justice. I also hope to continue gaining practical experience through law enforcement programs or similar opportunities. Building strong relationships with professors and mentors will be another important part of my journey, as their guidance will help me navigate the path to graduate school. After earning my bachelor’s degree, I will apply to a doctoral program in psychology, where I can specialize in forensic psychology and further develop my skills. Ultimately, my goal is to work in a field where I can make a meaningful difference—whether that is through law enforcement, forensic analysis, or another role within the criminal justice system. I want to contribute not only to solving crimes, but also to preventing them by understanding their root causes. By combining my education, personal experiences, and passion for helping others, I hope to play a role in creating safer, stronger communities.

Being diagnosed with epilepsy at the age of seven introduced me early to the reality that life does not always follow a predictable path. Seizures come without warning and rarely look the same twice, ranging from tonic-clonic episodes to brief moments of absence. Living with this condition has meant more than managing physical symptoms; it has required learning how to face uncertainty with patience, determination, and resilience. One of the most challenging periods of my life came during my freshman year of high school, when focal seizures went undetected for nearly a year. During that time, my grades began to suffer, and I struggled with the side effects of three different medications, including fatigue and short-term memory loss. It was discouraging to work hard and still feel as though my body and mind were working against me. A five-day hospital stay and countless appointments with my doctors finally led to the right combination of treatment, giving me back a sense of control over my health and my future. That experience taught me the value of advocating for myself. I learned that asking for help is not a weakness, but a strength, and that progress often comes from persistence rather than perfection. Because of my health challenges, I learned to become more organized, disciplined, and intentional with my time. I started running track in junior high (sprints), and really enjoyed this sport but my sophomore year I developed Visovagal Syndrome, where I would pass out after I finished a race. I finished my sophomore year running and started track my junior year but had to quit running because I was passing out before the end of the race. This was a hard choice but my health was too important to take the chance of hurting myself really bad. I stayed with team as a manager. Despite these obstacles, I refused to give up the things that bring me joy and balance, especially volleyball. Volleyball has been a passion of mine for years, and even while living with epilepsy and the uncertainty of when a seizure might occur, the sport has remained a constant source of strength and motivation in my life. Stepping onto the court gives me a sense of freedom and confidence, reminding me that my condition does not define my abilities or limit my determination. Through every practice and game, volleyball has taught me resilience, teamwork, and the importance of pushing forward despite challenges, shaping not only the athlete I am, but the person I strive to be. Returning to the court reminded me that I am more than my diagnosis. The lessons I have learned from epilepsy—resilience, adaptability, and self-belief—continue to shape how I approach every challenge. I now face obstacles with the confidence that I have already overcome uncertainty and emerged stronger, prepared to keep moving forward no matter what stands in my way. Starting college in the fall will be scary and unpredictable, but I am ready to face this new and exciting part of my life with confidence, knowing have the support of my family and doctors. I have a twin sister, Circe, who has been one of my biggest supporters and also caregiver, (along with my parents) who will be attending college at Oklahoma Wesleyan University too, which also helps some of my anxiety by knowing she will be close if I need her.