It is my desire to obtain the training and skills necessary to effectively and efficiently cater to the academic, social, emotional, and life skill needs of students with disabilities. The desire to cater to those with disabilities began as a child. Prior to my birth, my father was diagnosed with syringomyelia, a rare neurodegenerative disease which resulted in him being wheelchair bound and unable to speak due to an emergency laryngectomy. He had to use an electrolarynx, that produced sound for him to create a voice. Home health care was provided daily, and he had to attend speech clinic weekly. This disease also affected his ability to eat food. The food ingested would often spill over into his trachea and had to be suctioned out. Though disabled, I have fond memories of my father. I remember sliding down the stairs on his lap and wheeling him around as if we were dancing while listening to music. I remember wanting to alleviate his pain and suffering. As a career choice, I chose the scientific route. I earned a Master of Science degree in Nutritional Sciences and gained entry into medical school. After becoming a mom, I decided that I was no longer passionate about becoming a medical doctor. With my strong scientific foundation, I was able to teach science. I truly loved working with the students. Being a teacher also gave me the opportunity to work during my children's school schedule. My children are now grown with children of their own. My grandchildren's learning challenges are ultimately my inspiration to become a special educator. My grandson, though a very happy and affectionate child, had not met the appropriate speech and language milestones by the age of 3. At the age of 5, he received an official diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). I remember the educators at his first school painting a bleak picture for my grandson’s future. They informed us that he was not college material and that he would most likely be limited to a vocation. I am grateful and very proud to say that he is now a 17-year-old 11th grader and doing well academically, athletically, and socially. He is on track to receive a standard high school diploma and looks forward to graduating in 2025 and going to college. He remains very happy and plans to have a successful future. My recent work experiences as a special education teacher and a paraprofessional for middle and high school students have reinforced my desire to work with students with disabilities. This scholarship would award me the opportunity to obtain a Master of Science degree in Special Education. I am assured that there is nothing more rewarding for me. I have thus far successfully completed two courses in the Master of Science program in special education. The first course was entitled, “Characteristics of Exceptional Individuals”. I am more confident than ever that I want to fulfill the mission of becoming a highly qualified special educator.