1. I have always been passionate about helping others, especially children, and that passion has shaped both my personal values and career goals. While working with Transitional Kindergarten students, I had several students with autism, and the experience opened my eyes to the lack of education and resources available for staff. I saw how much families and children needed support, and I knew I wanted to be someone who could provide it. This experience sparked my commitment to pursuing a role where I could directly improve the health and well-being of children with developmental differences. The values that guide me most are empathy, patience, and the belief that every child deserves the chance to thrive. I am passionate about human health and wellness because I believe it is more than physical health—it is emotional, social, and mental well-being too. Helping children build confidence and life skills not only improves their health but also impacts their families and communities in meaningful ways. These values and experiences continue to inspire me to dedicate my work to supporting children and promoting wellness for those who often need it most. 2. Empathy in My Career Path To me, empathy means truly understanding and valuing the feelings, struggles, and perspectives of others. It goes beyond simply feeling sorry for someone—it is about being present, listening deeply, and recognizing the humanity in every individual. Empathy is not about fixing every problem immediately, but about meeting people where they are and showing them they are seen, heard, and respected. In the health-related career I hope to pursue as a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT), empathy is absolutely essential. Children with autism often experience the world in unique ways, and their behaviors may sometimes be misunderstood by others. An empathetic approach allows me to see beyond surface-level challenges and focus on the child’s needs, emotions, and potential. For example, if a child struggles with communication or becomes frustrated during a task, empathy helps me respond with patience and creativity instead of judgment. This not only builds trust but also creates an environment where the child feels safe enough to grow and learn. Empathy also extends to families. Parents and caregivers often carry the weight of worry, stress, and uncertainty when navigating their child’s needs. As an RBT, I want to approach families with compassion, offering support and encouragement rather than criticism. By putting myself in their shoes, I can better understand their experiences and collaborate with them in a way that feels empowering. Ensuring my work is done through a human-centered lens means keeping the child’s dignity, individuality, and well-being at the center of every decision I make. I believe therapy should never feel like forcing a child to fit into a mold, but rather about helping them develop skills that allow them to thrive in their own way. This means celebrating small victories, adapting strategies to meet each child’s unique needs, and honoring their pace of growth. To practice human-centered care, I will also commit myself to continuous learning. Every child I meet will teach me something new, and empathy requires being open to adjusting my approach based on what works best for them. It also means advocating for inclusivity, challenging stereotypes, and educating others about autism so that children are supported not only in therapy but also in their schools and communities. In short, empathy means walking alongside others with understanding and compassion, and in my chosen career, it is the foundation of meaningful progress. By approaching my work with empathy and a human-centered lens, I hope to create spaces where children with autism feel safe, valued, and capable of reaching their fullest potential.

Why I Wanted to Become an RBT and Help Children with Autism My decision to become a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) began with my experience working with Transitional Kindergarten (TK) students. During that time, a few of my students had autism, and interacting with them completely changed my perspective. I quickly realized how little education and knowledge there was among staff when it came to understanding and supporting children with autism. This opened my eyes to the need for more awareness, compassion, and skill in the classroom. It also inspired me to pursue a career where I could directly support children with autism and become a better advocate for their needs. Working with TK students gave me the chance to see both the challenges and the strengths of children on the spectrum. Some of my students struggled with communication or routines, while others had difficulties making connections with peers. At the same time, I saw their creativity, unique ways of thinking, and moments of pure joy when they accomplished something new. These experiences stayed with me. I wanted to learn more so I could truly support children with autism instead of just doing my best with limited training. That realization is what led me to pursue the path of becoming an RBT. Another reason I wanted to step into this field is because I saw how difficult it was for families when schools did not have enough knowledge or resources. Parents often looked to teachers and staff for guidance, but sometimes we were not equipped to give them the answers they needed. I knew I wanted to be someone who could bridge that gap—someone who could provide real tools, strategies, and encouragement not only for children, but also for their families. By becoming an RBT, I can offer meaningful support and help families feel like they are not alone in this journey. I am also motivated by the personal connections I hope to build in this role. Being an RBT is not just about teaching skills—it’s about celebrating every step of progress, no matter how small. Whether it is helping a child say a new word, interact with a peer, or complete a daily task, each accomplishment becomes a reason to celebrate. These victories may look small to others, but for the child and their family, they are life-changing moments. I want to be part of those victories. Lastly, pursuing this career path means growth for me as well. Working with children with autism requires patience, creativity, and empathy, and I know it will challenge me to keep learning and becoming a better person. I want to be someone who makes a difference in the lives of children, but I also know these children will teach me just as much in return. In the end, my journey started in a TK classroom, where I first saw how much support children with autism truly need. That experience inspired me to dedicate myself to becoming an RBT so I can make a lasting difference for both children and families. For me, this is not just a career choice—it is a calling to serve, support, and celebrate every child for who they are.

Challenge Name: “Melded Minds” No talking and no clues. Just you, your partner, and your connection (if there is one). This challenge is all about seeing how in tune they really are with the person they’re coupled up with. It’s called Melded Minds, and the goal is simple: can they read each other’s minds... without saying a single word? Here’s how it would play out. They’ll partner up — either with their current flame or someone they think they’ve got a real connection with. They will sit across from one other. A prompt will pop up, but only one person gets to see it. It might say something like “What is my #1 red flag in a relationship?” or “Who do I secretly fancy in the villa?” or even “What would I do on my dream date?” Then, they’ve got 30 seconds to act it out. No talking, no mouthing words. Just eye contact, facial expressions, hand movements — whatever they can come up with to get their partner to guess the right answer. Once time’s up, they lock in their guess. Then they swap roles. The challenge will have a mix of funny prompts, flirty ones, and a few that might stir the pot a bit. But that’s the fun of it — you get to see who’s actually connected, and who’s just been coasting on good chat and good looks (superficial at its best). Now for the kicker: the final round is called Red Flag Relay. This time, they act out what they think their partner’s biggest red flag is — and they have to guess it. Scoring’s easy. Each correct guess gets their team a point. Couple with the most points wins a romantic private date. The pair with the lowest score? You’re off to the Truth Booth, where the rest of the Islanders get to ask them the hard questions.

Creating Change Through Compassion: Supporting Individuals with Special Needs A local issue that matters deeply to me is the lack of accessible, individualized, and compassionate support for youth with special needs—particularly those with autism spectrum disorder and developmental delays. Far too often, these children are misunderstood, isolated, or labeled as “difficult” rather than supported with the resources they need to thrive. This issue resonates deeply with me, not only because of my professional experience but also because of my personal journey with anxiety and depression. I know how it feels to struggle silently, to be dismissed or overlooked, and I am committed to ensuring that others don’t feel the same. My own mental health challenges led me to explore careers in behavioral health, and eventually to become a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT). In this role, I work one-on-one with children and teens to implement behavior intervention plans rooted in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). Every day, I support clients in building skills that many take for granted—communicating needs, managing big emotions, following routines, and connecting with others. I’ve learned that no progress is too small to celebrate, and that every child, regardless of diagnosis or ability, deserves patience, support, and a chance to succeed. Being an RBT has given me the opportunity to make a direct impact in my community. I’ve helped a nonverbal child learn to point to pictures to express basic wants, watched a frustrated student learn to take breaks before melting down, and guided parents through difficult behavior challenges at home. While the changes I help create may appear small to outsiders, I know how transformative they are for families. It is an incredible privilege to be part of that process. Looking ahead, I am pursuing my education to become a Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst (BCaBA). With this certification, I will be able to design more effective behavior plans, supervise other RBTs, and contribute to larger conversations around inclusion and advocacy in schools and therapy settings. I hope to create programs that not only address behaviors but also promote dignity, independence, and joy. My ultimate goal is to combine my personal experience with mental health, my professional training, and my passion for helping others to create lasting, positive change. I want to be a voice for those who are too often unheard, and to build a world where every child—regardless of diagnosis—has the opportunity to reach their full potential.

Finding Purpose Through Struggle: My Journey Toward Becoming an RBT and BCaBA Struggling with anxiety and depression has shaped who I am in profound ways. For years, I felt overwhelmed by emotions I didn’t fully understand—waves of panic, hopelessness, and self-doubt that made daily life feel like a battle. But through that pain, I began to develop a deeper awareness of mental health and the importance of compassion. Rather than letting these struggles define me negatively, I chose to let them guide me toward a path of purpose: working with youth with special needs. I became interested in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) because it provides structured, evidence-based support to individuals who face unique challenges. As I learned more, I realized how much of the emotional turmoil I had faced could be transformed into empathy and patience—two qualities essential for anyone working in the field. Becoming a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) allowed me to directly apply my experiences in a meaningful way. I was no longer just managing my mental health—I was using the understanding it gave me to help others thrive. My experiences have given me a special connection with the children and teens I work with. I understand what it feels like to be misunderstood, to struggle with regulation, and to feel like progress is impossible. Because of that, I celebrate every small win, knowing how big those victories can truly be. Working with special needs youth has given me a sense of belonging, a way to heal by helping others. Now, I am pursuing my goal of becoming a Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst (BCaBA). I want to deepen my knowledge, increase the impact I can make, and advocate more effectively for those who often don’t have a voice. This career isn’t just a job—it’s a calling born from my own journey. My pain helped me find my purpose, and I am committed to turning that purpose into positive change for others.

As a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT), I demonstrate leadership, communication, resilience, unselfishness, focus, and a strong work ethic in my everyday work. These qualities not only define how I approach my role but also guide me as I work toward my ultimate goal of becoming a Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst (BCaBA). Leadership and communication are essential in my daily routine. In my current role, I often help guide other RBTs by sharing insights, modeling best practices, and collaborating with them to overcome challenges during sessions. I strive to foster a positive and respectful team environment, where everyone feels comfortable sharing concerns or asking for help. Effective communication with clients, families, and coworkers allows me to ensure that everyone involved in a client's care is aligned and working toward the same goals. Resilience is another key trait that I practice daily. Working in the field of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) can be both physically and emotionally demanding. Each client presents unique challenges, and unexpected behaviors can arise at any time. I’ve learned to adapt, stay calm under pressure, and maintain a positive attitude even in the face of setbacks. This resilience allows me to stay grounded and continue delivering consistent, compassionate care. Unselfishness is at the heart of my work. My focus is always on what is best for the client and the team. I often step up to help others, whether that means staying late, taking on extra responsibilities, or offering guidance to new RBTs. I believe that a collaborative, team-oriented mindset creates the best outcomes for our clients and helps foster growth among my peers. I am focused and determined, especially when it comes to my long-term goals. I manage my time carefully, ensuring that I stay on top of my coursework while maintaining high standards in my professional role. My determination comes from a deep passion for this field and a desire to continue growing so I can better serve the individuals and families I work with. My strong work ethic drives everything I do. I take pride in being dependable, organized, and consistent in both my academic and professional responsibilities. I understand that the quality of my work directly impacts the progress of my clients, and I strive to deliver the best possible care every day. My future goal is to become a BCaBA so that I can take on greater responsibility in developing treatment plans, supervising RBTs, and making meaningful contributions to the lives of individuals with developmental and behavioral challenges. I am pursuing a degree to gain the knowledge, credentials, and experience required to grow into this role. To me, leadership means serving others, leading by example, and inspiring those around me through integrity, compassion, and consistency. Whether I’m helping a client learn a new skill or supporting another RBT, I strive to be a source of guidance and encouragement. I am excited for the future and committed to making a lasting impact in the field of behavior analysis.

Why Mental and Physical Wellness Are Important to Me and the Challenges I Face as a Student Mental and physical wellness are extremely important to me because they affect every part of my life—from how I learn and focus to how I interact with others and take care of myself. As someone living with ADHD and anxiety, maintaining this wellness is even more critical, but also more challenging. These conditions impact my ability to concentrate, manage stress, and maintain energy, making it essential for me to actively prioritize my mental and physical health. Living with ADHD means my brain often feels like it’s moving faster than I can keep up with. Focusing on tasks, organizing my schedule, and controlling impulsive thoughts can be difficult, especially when I’m juggling schoolwork and other responsibilities. Anxiety adds another layer, causing worries and sometimes overwhelming feelings that make it hard to stay calm or sleep well. Together, these conditions affect both my mental clarity and physical energy, so maintaining wellness is key to my success and well-being. One of the biggest challenges I face is managing stress. Deadlines, exams, and the pressure to perform well can trigger my anxiety, making it harder to focus or think clearly. When anxiety spikes, it affects my sleep and energy levels, which then impacts my physical health. Similarly, ADHD makes it hard to stay organized and stick to routines that support good health. For example, I might forget to eat regularly or put off exercise because my attention is pulled in many directions. Time management is a constant struggle. Between classes, studying, and personal responsibilities, it’s easy for my self-care routines to fall by the wayside. I sometimes skip meals, stay up late trying to finish assignments, or miss workouts—all of which negatively affect my mental and physical wellness. Social isolation can also be tough, especially when anxiety makes it hard to reach out or attend group activities, leading to feelings of loneliness. Despite these challenges, I’ve learned strategies to help me maintain balance. I make a conscious effort to keep a consistent sleep schedule, as good rest helps calm my anxiety and improve focus. Eating nutritious meals regularly gives me the energy I need throughout the day. Exercise is another important tool—movement helps reduce anxiety and improves my mood, even if it’s just a short walk. I also practice mindfulness techniques like deep breathing and meditation, which help me manage anxious thoughts and bring my focus back when ADHD makes my mind race. When things get overwhelming, I don’t hesitate to seek support from counselors, teachers, and friends. Talking about my struggles helps reduce anxiety and reminds me I’m not alone. Using planners and reminders helps me stay organized, breaking big tasks into smaller steps so they don’t feel so overwhelming. In conclusion, mental and physical wellness are crucial to managing my ADHD and anxiety and succeeding as a student. Though challenges like stress, time management, and social isolation are real, I am committed to practicing self-care and seeking support. By prioritizing my wellness, I can better focus, reduce anxiety, and maintain the energy I need to pursue my goals and live a balanced life.

Why I Decided to Pursue Education in Healthcare and My Future Career Goals My decision to pursue education in healthcare is rooted in a deep passion for helping others and a desire to make a positive impact on individuals’ lives. From an early age, I found myself drawn to caregiving roles and supporting those around me, especially individuals facing health challenges. This natural inclination, combined with personal experiences and professional exposure, motivated me to choose healthcare as my career path. One of the key reasons I am committed to healthcare is the opportunity it provides to combine scientific knowledge with compassionate care. Understanding how the human body and mind work fascinates me, but what truly inspires me is the chance to connect with people, listen to their stories, and support them through difficult times. Healthcare professionals not only treat symptoms but also improve the quality of life for patients and their families. This blend of science and human connection makes healthcare a meaningful and fulfilling field. My journey in healthcare education has been significantly influenced by my experience working as a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT). In this role, I work closely with individuals who have special needs, including those with developmental and behavioral challenges. This experience has taught me invaluable lessons in patience, empathy, and the importance of personalized care. Each person I work with has unique strengths and needs, and tailoring interventions to those specifics is crucial for success. Being part of their progress and witnessing their growth motivates me to further my education and expertise in this field. My future career goal is to become a Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst (BCaBA) and eventually a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA). These certifications will enable me to design, implement, and oversee effective treatment plans for individuals with developmental disabilities and behavioral disorders. I am particularly passionate about working with children and youth, as I believe early intervention is vital in helping them develop essential skills and improve their overall well-being. Through this work, I hope to empower individuals to achieve their fullest potential and lead more independent and fulfilling lives. Beyond direct client care, I am committed to advocating for improved access to healthcare and support services, especially for underserved populations. Many families face challenges such as financial barriers, lack of resources, or limited awareness about available services. I want to be part of a healthcare system that promotes equity, inclusion, and patient-centered care, ensuring that everyone receives the support they deserve. In conclusion, my choice to pursue education in healthcare is driven by a passion for science, a commitment to compassionate care, and a desire to make a tangible difference in people’s lives. My experiences as an RBT have strengthened my resolve to specialize in behavior analysis, and I am excited to continue growing professionally to achieve my career goals. Ultimately, I aspire to contribute meaningfully to the lives of those I serve and to the broader healthcare community.

How Online Platforms and Tools Enhance My Learning of Psychology and ABA As someone passionate about psychology and Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), I have found that online platforms and resources are essential to deepening my understanding and applying what I learn in real-world settings. These tools have given me access to a wealth of information beyond the classroom, allowing me to explore complex theories, behavior interventions, and practical techniques at my own pace. They also help me connect the science of human behavior with the compassionate care I aim to provide. One of my most valuable resources is Khan Academy’s psychology section, which breaks down psychological concepts like learning, cognition, and developmental stages into clear, manageable lessons. The combination of videos and interactive quizzes helps me reinforce foundational knowledge and prepares me for more advanced ABA concepts. When I encounter challenging ideas, I revisit these lessons to build a stronger understanding, which is critical when working with diverse individuals in behavior analysis. For Applied Behavior Analysis specifically, I use platforms like Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB) official materials and study groups online. These resources provide guidelines, ethical standards, and up-to-date research that are essential for anyone pursuing certification or working in the field. Online forums and Facebook groups for RBTs (Registered Behavior Technicians) and BCaBAs (Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analysts) offer community support and practical advice. Being part of these communities helps me learn from experienced professionals, ask questions about behavior intervention plans, and stay current with best practices. YouTube channels such as ABA Inside Track and other educational content creators also play a big role in my learning. These videos break down complex ABA techniques, like reinforcement schedules and functional behavior assessments, into easy-to-understand demonstrations. Watching real-life examples helps me see how theory translates into practice, which improves my ability to support clients effectively. I also rely heavily on Quizlet for memorizing terminology and key concepts from psychology and ABA. Creating flashcards and using the app’s testing modes strengthen my recall and prepare me for exams and certifications. This active learning technique makes studying more engaging and helps me retain important information for long-term use. For academic research and evidence-based practices, I use Google Scholar and my school’s online databases to find peer-reviewed articles on behavioral interventions and psychological studies. Being able to access and critically analyze scientific literature ensures that my approach to care is grounded in research and effective methods. Overall, these online platforms and tools have transformed how I learn psychology and ABA. They offer me multiple ways to absorb and apply knowledge—whether through videos, flashcards, community discussions, or scholarly articles. This variety keeps me engaged and helps me become a confident, compassionate professional who can make a positive impact on the lives of those I serve.

How My Caregiving Experience Has Shaped My Goals, Journey, and Identity My experience as a caregiver has been one of the most defining parts of my life. It has shaped who I am, influenced the goals I have set for myself, and guided the journey I am on today. Through caregiving, I have learned invaluable lessons about patience, empathy, and responsibility, which have transformed my perspective on life and fueled my passion for helping others. Caregiving, by its very nature, requires putting someone else’s needs before your own. It demands patience, understanding, and a willingness to adapt. When I first began caregiving for a loved one with special needs, I quickly realized that this role was far more complex and rewarding than I had imagined. I was challenged to be attentive to the smallest details—from noticing changes in mood to adjusting daily routines—because these small things often had a huge impact on their well-being. This experience forced me to slow down and become more present, both mentally and emotionally. It was a lesson in mindfulness and active listening, teaching me to truly see and understand the person I was supporting. These qualities have become central to my identity and have influenced how I interact with others in all areas of my life. Caregiving also revealed strengths within me that I didn’t know I had. I developed resilience and learned to manage stress in healthy ways. There were days filled with frustration and exhaustion, but I learned that perseverance is key. The ability to keep going, even when things get tough, has become a core value that I carry with me. I now see challenges as opportunities for growth rather than obstacles. More importantly, caregiving awakened a deep sense of empathy. Experiencing the ups and downs alongside someone who depends on you cultivates a profound understanding of human vulnerability and strength. This empathy drives my passion for working with individuals who face unique challenges, especially those with special needs. I want to use my experience to make a positive difference in their lives, advocating for their rights and supporting their growth. Because of my caregiving journey, I have set clear goals for my future. I am committed to pursuing a career in a field where I can provide compassionate care and meaningful support. Whether it is through behavior analysis, healthcare, or education, my goal is to empower individuals with special needs to lead fulfilling and independent lives. I believe that everyone deserves respect, dignity, and the opportunity to thrive, and I want to be part of creating environments that foster that. Caregiving also taught me the importance of collaboration and community. No one provides care alone; it takes a team of family members, professionals, and friends working together. This understanding has made me value teamwork and communication, qualities I will carry into my future career and life. In conclusion, my caregiving experience has deeply shaped my identity and inspired my goals. It has taught me patience, resilience, and empathy, while showing me the importance of service and community. This journey has set me on a path toward a career dedicated to helping others, and I am grateful for the lessons it has given me along the way.

My Journey with ADHD, Motivation for Higher Education, and Why I Am a Strong Candidate for This Scholarship Living with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) has been a significant part of my life journey. From a young age, I noticed that my brain worked differently from many of my peers. Simple tasks like focusing in class, organizing my work, or managing my time often felt overwhelming. These struggles sometimes made me feel isolated or misunderstood, especially in traditional educational settings that were not designed to accommodate my unique learning style. However, these challenges also shaped me into a resilient, determined individual who has learned to adapt, grow, and pursue my goals with passion. My experience with ADHD has taught me about self-awareness, perseverance, and the importance of advocating. I quickly realized that what worked for others might not work for me, so I sought out strategies to help me succeed. Breaking down assignments into smaller, manageable pieces, using planners and reminders, and seeking support from teachers and mentors became essential tools in my academic journey. These adaptations empowered me to excel in ways I hadn’t thought possible. One of the most important lessons I learned through this process is that ADHD is not a limitation, but a different way of processing the world. This perspective has motivated me to pursue higher education, where I believe I can fully develop my potential and make a positive impact. College represents an opportunity for me to deepen my knowledge, build new skills, and prepare for a career that aligns with my passions. I am excited to challenge myself academically while continuing to grow personally and professionally. My motivation for higher education is about personal achievement and the desire to help others who face similar challenges. Having experienced the struggles of learning with ADHD firsthand, I want to be a voice for those who feel overlooked or underestimated. I am passionate about advocating for inclusive education and support systems that recognize and celebrate diverse ways of learning. I hope to inspire others with learning differences to embrace their strengths and pursue their dreams without fear or hesitation. I believe I am a strong candidate for this scholarship because of my determination, resilience, and commitment to growth. Despite the obstacles presented by ADHD, I have maintained consistent academic progress and engaged in extracurricular activities that develop my leadership and interpersonal skills. I have taken on roles that require responsibility and teamwork, showing that I can balance multiple demands while striving for excellence. My journey has been marked by challenges, but also by a deep commitment to overcoming those challenges through hard work and a positive mindset. Receiving this scholarship would provide crucial financial support, allowing me to focus more fully on my studies and less on the stress of funding my education. It would enable me to access resources that can further enhance my learning and personal development. Beyond the financial benefits, being chosen as a scholarship recipient would serve as an encouragement—a recognition that my efforts and determination are valued and that my goals are achievable. In conclusion, my experience with ADHD has shaped me into a resilient, self-aware individual who is motivated to succeed and help others succeed as well. Higher education is the next step in my journey, offering a chance to grow academically and personally while preparing me for a future where I can make a meaningful difference. This scholarship represents a vital opportunity to support that growth, and I am confident that I am a deserving candidate who will use this opportunity to achieve my goals and inspire others.

How My Faith Has Influenced My Leadership Style Faith has been a guiding force in my life, shaping not only who I am but also how I lead and inspire others. It provides me with a foundation of values like compassion, humility, and perseverance, which I try to embody every day. My leadership style is deeply rooted in these principles—leading not through authority or control, but through service, empathy, and a shared sense of purpose. Faith teaches me that leadership is not about being the loudest voice in the room, but about lifting others up and walking alongside them. One experience stands out when I truly saw how faith can inspire leadership and make a difference. I was given the opportunity to lead a small group at my community center during a challenging time. The group included young people facing various struggles—some with family issues, others battling self-doubt and uncertainty about their futures. Many felt isolated and unheard. My role was not to fix their problems but to create a space where they felt safe, valued, and supported. Drawing from my faith, I focused on creating an atmosphere of unconditional acceptance. I shared stories of hope and resilience, not as lectures but as honest conversations. I encouraged each person to share their own experiences and dreams, reminding them that their worth isn’t defined by their struggles. At times, the group faced setbacks, and frustration ran high. But faith reminded me to be patient and steadfast, to keep believing in their potential even when they couldn’t see it themselves. One young man, in particular, was deeply affected by this support. He had dropped out of school and was on the verge of giving up on himself. Through gentle encouragement and consistent presence, he began attending regularly and participating more. Over several months, he improved not just academically but in his confidence and outlook on life. Seeing that transformation reinforced for me the power of faith-based leadership—it’s about believing in people’s potential and walking with them through their journey. This experience shaped my vision for the future in profound ways. It taught me that true leadership involves service and humility, qualities rooted in my faith tradition. It’s about meeting people where they are, recognizing their inherent dignity, and inspiring them to become the best version of themselves. I want to continue leading with these values, whether in my career or community work. Faith also reminds me that leadership isn’t about perfection; it’s about authenticity and perseverance. There will be challenges and moments of doubt, but maintaining a spirit of hope and compassion can carry a team through. I envision a future where leaders create inclusive spaces that empower everyone to thrive—not through fear or pressure, but through encouragement and shared purpose. Ultimately, my faith shapes not just how I lead, but why I lead. It’s a call to serve others selflessly, to listen deeply, and to lead with love and integrity. This mindset inspires me to keep growing, learning, and striving to be the kind of leader who makes a positive difference in the lives of others.

If I Could Change Anything in Education, It Would Be to Make It Truly Supportive for Students with Special Needs and Autism If I had the chance to change one thing about education, I would make the system more understanding, flexible, and supportive for students with special needs—especially those with autism. As someone who is working closely with children and teens with developmental disabilities, I have seen how the current educational system often falls short for these students. Instead of being environments where they can thrive, many schools can feel overwhelming, isolating, or even discouraging. Changing education to better serve students with special needs would not only help them succeed academically but also empower them to live more independent, fulfilling lives. Why Focus on Special Needs and Autism? Autism is a complex neurodevelopmental condition that affects communication, social interaction, and behavior. It is a spectrum, which means every individual with autism is unique, with different strengths and challenges. This diversity requires education to be flexible and personalized. However, many schools still rely on standardized approaches that assume all students learn the same way, which simply isn’t true for those with autism or other special needs. Students with autism often face sensory overload in noisy or crowded classrooms. They may struggle with changes in routine, social cues, or communication. Without proper support, these challenges can lead to frustration, anxiety, and even behavioral outbursts. Unfortunately, the education system sometimes responds by isolating these students or labeling them as “problematic,” rather than adapting the environment and teaching methods to their needs. What Needs to Change First, schools must embrace a more inclusive philosophy—not just placing students with special needs in general education classrooms, but truly integrating supports that help them learn alongside their peers. This means investing in trained special education teachers, behavioral specialists, and support staff who understand autism and can create individualized learning plans tailored to each student’s abilities. For example, many students with autism benefit from visual schedules, sensory breaks, and quiet spaces where they can regulate their emotions. Small changes like these can reduce anxiety and improve focus. It’s critical that schools offer these accommodations proactively, rather than waiting for a crisis to intervene. Second, teachers and staff need ongoing training in autism awareness and evidence-based teaching strategies. When educators understand why a student behaves a certain way, they can respond with patience and appropriate support instead of frustration. Positive behavioral supports, social skills training, and communication tools like picture exchange systems or assistive technology can transform the learning experience. The Importance of Early Intervention and Family Involvement Another area I believe must improve is early intervention and family collaboration. The earlier a child with autism receives tailored support, the better their chances of developing essential skills. Schools should work closely with families, therapists, and healthcare providers to ensure consistent goals and strategies across environments. Families often carry the emotional and logistical weight of helping their children navigate education, and they need to be treated as equal partners. When schools listen to families and involve them in decision-making, students benefit from a more coordinated and supportive approach. My Personal Experience and Why This Change Matters Working as a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) has shown me how powerful individualized support can be. I’ve seen kids who struggled with communication blossom when given the right tools and environment. But I’ve also witnessed how a lack of understanding and support in schools can hold students back. One child I worked with had difficulty with loud noises and transitions, which often caused meltdowns. By using visual supports and offering him a quiet space, we reduced his anxiety significantly. However, at his school, these accommodations were not always available or consistently implemented, which caused unnecessary stress for both him and his family. This experience drives me to advocate for better education systems where every child with autism is given the tools to succeed—not just academically but socially and emotionally as well. Beyond Academics: Teaching Life Skills and Social Understanding Education for students with autism should also focus on life skills and social understanding. Academic knowledge is important, but many students need direct teaching in daily living skills, emotional regulation, and social communication. Preparing students for adulthood—whether that means college, vocational training, or independent living—is essential. Moreover, schools should educate all students about neurodiversity and inclusion. When classmates understand autism, they are more likely to be accepting and supportive, creating a safer and more welcoming environment. The Broader Impact Improving education for students with autism and special needs doesn’t just help those students—it benefits society as a whole. When students are supported and empowered, they are more likely to grow into confident adults who contribute to their communities. Inclusion fosters empathy, breaks down stigma, and encourages diversity of thought. Challenges and Hope for the Future I recognize these changes won’t happen overnight. Many schools face budget constraints, staffing shortages, and rigid testing requirements. But I believe with advocacy, education, and commitment, we can move toward a system that values every student. I hope to be part of this change by continuing my education to become a Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst (BCaBA). I want to design and oversee individualized programs that help students with autism reach their full potential. Conclusion If I could change anything in education, it would be to make it truly supportive and inclusive for students with autism and special needs. These students deserve environments where their unique needs are understood and met with compassion, expertise, and flexibility. By shifting our focus from one-size-fits-all to individualized learning and support, we can help these students thrive academically, socially, and emotionally—and prepare them for meaningful lives beyond the classroom. This change is not just necessary; it is urgent, and it is a cause I am deeply committed to.

How I Embody Selflessness To me, selflessness means showing up for others without expecting anything in return. It’s about putting someone else’s comfort, dignity, or needs before your own—not because it’s easy, but because it’s the right thing to do. Through both my work and my everyday life, I try to live by that standard. As a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT), I work directly with children and teens with autism and other developmental disabilities. It’s a role that demands patience, empathy, and flexibility—qualities that have taught me what selflessness really looks like in action. Some days are unpredictable. There are times when a child is overwhelmed, struggling to cope with their environment, or unable to express how they feel. When that happens, my job is to stay calm, step in, and support them in any way I can. I remember a day when one of my clients refused to leave school. A routine transition to the car turned into a two-hour emotional breakdown. He was crying, screaming, and couldn’t process what was happening. I sat with him on the ground, gently talking, giving him space, and trying different calming strategies. I missed lunch and rescheduled everything else that day—but I stayed until he felt safe. That moment didn’t earn me praise or attention, but it reminded me of what I’m here to do: to be a steady, caring presence, no matter how difficult the moment. Selflessness isn’t something I leave behind when I clock out. It follows me into the community. There have been many times when I’ve encountered individuals with special needs in public spaces—children having meltdowns in stores, caregivers overwhelmed at restaurants, or nonverbal individuals needing assistance. Because of my experience, I’m often able to recognize what’s going on before others do. I’ve stepped in quietly—offering to help, distracting a child while a parent takes a breath, or calmly speaking to someone when others didn’t know how. These aren’t things I do for recognition. I do them because I know how hard these moments can be, and I want to be the kind of person who makes life just a little easier for someone else. I also bring this mindset into my relationships. Whether it’s supporting a friend going through a hard time or helping a classmate who’s falling behind, I try to lead with kindness and presence. Sometimes being selfless means just listening, giving your time, or offering help without being asked. I believe selflessness is about the small choices we make—staying calm when others can’t, showing up when it’s inconvenient, and giving without expecting anything back. It’s not always easy, and it often goes unseen. But I know the impact it can have. And whether I’m working with a child in therapy or helping someone in public, I want my actions to reflect the belief that everyone deserves care, patience, and dignity.

What Makes Me Unique and Why I Deserve This Scholarship What makes me unique isn’t just one thing—it’s the intersection of my lived experiences, my identity, and the work I’ve chosen to do. I’m a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT), a member of the LGBTQ+ community, and someone who took a nontraditional path to higher education. All of these pieces have shaped me into someone who leads with empathy, perseverance, and a genuine desire to help others feel seen and supported. As an RBT, I work one-on-one with children and teens who have autism and other developmental disabilities. This work has been life-changing. I’ve celebrated first words, calmed meltdowns, collaborated with families, and advocated for kids who can’t always advocate for themselves. Through it all, I’ve learned how powerful patience, compassion, and presence can be. It’s taught me that true success isn’t always loud or flashy—it’s in the quiet progress that changes lives. Being part of the LGBTQ+ community has added another layer to my perspective. I know what it feels like to be misunderstood, to not quite fit into certain expectations, and to have to carve out space where you’re fully accepted. Because of that, I’ve always been especially driven to create inclusive environments—whether in therapy sessions, classrooms, or community spaces. I want every person, regardless of their identity or ability, to feel valued and supported. I’m not a traditional student. I didn’t go straight to college after high school. Life pulled me in different directions—I needed to work, to grow, to understand who I was. But I never let go of the dream to return to school and do something meaningful with my future. That’s what makes this moment matter so much. I’m here now with a clearer purpose: to become a Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst (BCaBA) and continue making a difference in the lives of special needs youth and their families. This scholarship would help me continue my education without the added weight of financial stress. But more than that, it would represent something powerful: that who I am—my identity, my path, my experiences—are worth investing in. I’m not just pursuing a degree; I’m working to change systems, uplift underserved voices, and be someone who makes healthcare and behavioral support more compassionate, accessible, and affirming. I believe I deserve this scholarship because I show up every day ready to do the work—with heart, humility, and hope. I represent communities that are often underrepresented, and I’m committed to giving back through my education and my career. I’ve faced challenges, but I’ve turned them into purpose. Thank you for considering me.

What PLUR Means to Me Peace, Love, Unity, and Respect—four simple words that carry so much weight. I first heard the term PLUR at my first EDM event. At the time, I thought it was just part of the rave culture: colorful bracelets, smiling faces, dancing with strangers under flashing lights. But as I spent more time in that world, I realized PLUR isn’t just a phrase—it’s a way of treating people. It’s a way of living. And over the years, I’ve tried to carry those values into every space I walk into, not just the ones with music and lights. Peace, to me, starts inside. Life can get overwhelming, especially working in behavioral health and supporting individuals with special needs. I’ve had moments where I’ve been tested—emotionally, mentally, and physically. But choosing peace means pausing before reacting. It means taking a breath, staying grounded, and doing my best to be the calm in the storm. I’ve learned that when I can bring peace into a room, especially during high-stress moments, it helps others feel safe too. Love is the value I probably hold closest. Not just romantic love, but love as in care, patience, and showing up for people. I’ve worked with clients who don’t always communicate with words. Sometimes love looks like sitting on the floor with a child during a meltdown or celebrating the smallest win with a family who needed hope. I try to give love in the way I wish more people gave it—without conditions, without judgment, just being there and saying, “I see you.” Unity is what makes everything work. Whether it’s at a rave, where complete strangers form a bond through music, or at work, where a team comes together to support one child’s growth, unity is powerful. We’re all different, and that’s the beauty of it. But when we focus on what connects us—our shared humanity, our desire to be understood—we can actually move forward together. I try to be someone who brings people together, who makes space for everyone’s voice, and who reminds others that we’re all on the same team. And finally, Respect. This one’s simple but sometimes the hardest. Respect is more than being polite. It’s listening when someone speaks, even if you don’t agree. It’s learning someone’s story before making assumptions. It’s treating someone with dignity, even when no one’s watching. Working with people who often face stigma or misunderstanding has taught me how deeply respect matters. Everyone wants to feel valued. Everyone deserves that. PLUR isn’t just something I believe in when the music’s playing. It’s something I carry with me into my work, my relationships, and my everyday life. It reminds me of the kind of person I want to be: peaceful, loving, inclusive, and respectful—no matter where I am or who I’m with.

How My Experience with Special Needs and as an RBT Will Help Me Make a Positive Impact My journey working with individuals who have special needs has been both challenging and deeply rewarding. As a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT), I’ve gained hands-on experience supporting individuals with developmental and behavioral challenges. These experiences have shaped how I view healthcare and my role within it. They have also deepened my passion for helping others and equipped me with practical skills that I believe will allow me to make a meaningful and lasting impact. One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned is the importance of patience and empathy. Each person I’ve worked with has their own way of communicating, learning, and interacting with the world. What works for one client may not work for another. Being a good RBT means recognizing these differences and responding with flexibility, kindness, and creativity. This understanding has taught me that healthcare is not just about treating symptoms—it’s about meeting individuals where they are, seeing them as people first, and offering care that respects their unique needs and abilities. My experience has also helped me develop strong problem-solving skills and the ability to remain calm under pressure. Behavioral challenges can be unpredictable. Supporting individuals with autism and other developmental disabilities requires thinking on your feet and staying composed in difficult situations. For example, when a client becomes overwhelmed or frustrated, I’ve learned how to help de-escalate the situation and support their emotional regulation in the moment. These experiences have strengthened my communication skills—not only in explaining things clearly, but in reading nonverbal cues and building trust. These skills are essential in many areas of healthcare, where patients may feel vulnerable or unsure. As an RBT, I’ve had the opportunity to work closely with Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs), teachers, families, and other healthcare professionals. Together, we design and implement treatment plans that are consistent and effective. This kind of collaboration has shown me how important teamwork is in providing high-quality care. I hope to bring that same collaborative mindset into my future career as a BCaBA, working closely with other professionals to ensure the best possible outcomes for the individuals we serve. I’ve also learned the importance of advocacy. Individuals with special needs often face barriers to accessing education and healthcare. Through my work with families, I’ve seen how much of a difference it makes when someone stands up for their needs and helps them navigate the system. I want to be a BCaBA who not only creates treatment plans but also empowers families and advocates for inclusive, accessible care. Looking ahead, I plan to continue my education and become a Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst (BCaBA). In this role, I’ll be able to take on greater responsibility in designing and overseeing behavioral programs, while continuing to make a direct impact in people’s lives. Ultimately, I want to be part of a healthcare system that values both clinical skill and human connection—where care is not only evidence-based, but also compassionate. In summary, my experiences as an RBT have taught me patience, empathy, communication, teamwork, and advocacy. These are the tools I’ll carry with me into the healthcare field, and they will guide me as I continue working to support and empower individuals with special needs.

Trying to Make Sense of a World That Doesn’t: Absurdism in The Stranger I’ve always been someone who looks for meaning in things. Whether it's trying to figure out why something bad happened or trying to understand what my purpose is, I’ve constantly searched for answers. But at some point, you start to realize that life doesn’t always give you a clear reason for anything. Things just… happen. That’s why reading The Stranger by Albert Camus hit me differently. It introduced me to this idea called absurdism, which basically says that humans are always looking for meaning in a world that really doesn’t have any. It’s uncomfortable, but at the same time, kind of freeing. The book follows this guy named Meursault who doesn’t react to things the way you’d expect. His mom dies, and he doesn’t cry. His girlfriend asks if he loves her, and he basically says, “I don’t know, but sure, let’s get married.” Then he ends up killing a man, not out of hate or self-defense really, but more like... it just happens. Throughout the book, people judge him not just for the crime but for not acting how society thinks someone should act. But Meursault doesn’t fake it. He doesn’t pretend to be something he’s not, even when it would help him avoid being punished. The part of the book that stuck with me the most is near the end, when he’s in prison waiting to be executed. Camus writes: “As if that blind rage had washed me clean, rid me of hope; for the first time, in that night alive with signs and stars, I opened myself to the gentle indifference of the world. Finding it so much like myself—so like a brother, really—I felt that I had been happy and that I was happy again.” When I read this, it stopped me for a second. It’s like Meursault finally understood that the universe isn’t going to give him any answers or save him. But instead of freaking out, he finds peace in it. That “gentle indifference” isn’t cruel—it just is. And once he stops hoping for something more or different, he realizes that what he had—his life, just as it was—was enough. That’s what absurdism is about: accepting that life doesn’t owe us meaning, and still finding value in living it. This whole idea honestly challenged the way I think. I’ve always believed that everything happens for a reason. It’s comforting to think that way, especially when things go wrong. But absurdism says the opposite—that things don’t always happen for a reason, and trying to force a reason onto everything can just make us more frustrated. Camus isn’t saying life is worthless. He’s saying that even if life doesn’t have some big cosmic purpose, you can still live it honestly and fully. What’s wild is that Meursault seems cold at the beginning of the book—almost emotionless. But by the end, he’s the only one who’s really honest. He doesn’t fake belief in God just to get comfort. He doesn’t pretend to feel guilty when he doesn’t. Everyone around him is performing—saying the “right” things to look moral or proper—but he’s just being real, even if it costs him his life. That’s what Camus is trying to show us: that being true to yourself, even in a world that doesn’t make sense, is one of the most meaningful things you can do. This got me thinking about my own life. I’ve definitely had moments where I’ve asked “why me?” or tried to find some deeper reason for why things were happening. But maybe there isn’t always a reason. Maybe instead of asking “why,” I should be asking “what now?”—like, how do I live the life I have, even when it doesn’t go how I planned? How do I show up honestly, like Meursault, even when it’s uncomfortable? The Stranger isn’t an easy book to read, and it doesn’t give you any feel-good answers. But that’s kind of the point. Life doesn’t come with clear instructions. Sometimes it’s messy, confusing, and unfair. But that doesn’t mean it’s not worth living. That’s the part of absurdism that stuck with me most—it’s not about giving up. It’s about living anyway. Even when things don’t add up. Even when you don’t have all the answers. In the end, absurdism isn’t hopeless—it’s honest. It tells us to stop waiting for the universe to explain itself, and instead, find meaning in how we live, love, and act right now. And honestly? That’s something I needed to hear.

How the Bright Lights Scholarship Will Help Me Achieve My Goal of Becoming a BCaBA and Supporting Youth with Special Needs: Receiving the Bright Lights Scholarship would be a life-changing opportunity for me. It would not only help ease the financial burden of college but also bring me one step closer to fulfilling my dream of becoming a Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst (BCaBA). My passion lies in helping youth with special needs, and this scholarship will provide critical support on the path to turning that passion into a lifelong career. The cost of higher education is a significant challenge, especially when pursuing a specialized field like behavior analysis. Tuition, books, certifications, and the required supervision hours all add up quickly. I’ve worked hard to save and apply for financial aid, but I still face a gap between what I can afford and what I need. The Bright Lights Scholarship would relieve some of that pressure, allowing me to focus more on my studies and hands-on experience rather than worrying about how to pay for the next semester. More than just financial help, this scholarship represents something deeper: the belief that my goals are worth investing in. It reinforces my commitment to giving back to a community that has always held a special place in my heart. I have the privilege of currently working with youth, as an RBT, who have autism and other developmental disabilities, and those experiences have shaped the direction of my future. I’ve seen firsthand how powerful early intervention and behavior therapy can be in helping children build communication, social, and life skills. I need to be part of that positive impact. Becoming a BCaBA is not just a career choice—it’s a calling. As a BCaBA, I’ll be qualified to assess behavior, create support plans, and work directly with children and families to improve quality of life. It’s a role that requires compassion, patience, knowledge, and dedication—all qualities I continue to develop in myself, and proven in my current field that I posses. I plan to complete my undergraduate degree in Psychology with a specialization in Applied Behavior Analysis, earn my BCaBA certification, and eventually gain enough experience to pursue my BCBA (Board Certified Behavior Analyst) license. My long-term goal is to work in schools or clinics that provide services to underserved communities, ensuring that every child—regardless of background—has access to the love and support they, and their families, need. The Bright Lights Scholarship will help make this journey possible. It will allow me to focus on becoming the best version of myself—academically, professionally, and personally—so I can pour that growth back into the lives of the children I hope to serve. Your support would not only help me reach my goals but also help light the path for those who need someone in their corner. Thank you for considering me for this opportunity. I am deeply committed to this work, and with your help, I can take the next step toward building a career that truly makes a difference.

Why I Am Worth Achieving My Dream of Helping Youth with Special Needs Since I was young, I’ve always felt a deep passion toward helping others—especially those who are often misunderstood. Over time, that passion became my dream: to work with and support youth with special needs. It’s a dream fueled by compassion, patience, and the belief that every child deserves to feel understood, supported, and valued!!I know that this dream is not just something I want—it's something I was born to do. And I believe I’m worth achieving it. I am worth achieving my dream because my heart is in the right place. I don’t see young people with special needs as different or less capable—I see them as unique individuals full of potential, just waiting for someone to meet them where they are and believe in them. I am that person. I have a genuine desire to understand their world, to be patient when words fail, and to celebrate even the smallest victories. That kind of heart can’t be taught—it’s something I carry with me every day, in my work as an RBT as well as model for my children. Another reason I’m worthy of this dream is because I’ve committed myself to learning. I know that helping youth with special needs is not always easy. It requires knowledge, creativity, emotional strength, and flexibility. That’s why I’m constantly educating myself—through books, classes, hands-on experience, and listening to the voices of those with lived experience. I want to be as equipped as possible, not just to help, but to advocate, support, and uplift. Part of my dream is to go to under funded schools and educate staff and ways to better understand and interact with special needs youth. I’ve also learned the value of patience and persistence. In this field, progress sometimes comes slowly. There are days filled with challenges, setbacks, and moments that test your spirit. But I don’t shy away from that—I lean into it, and grow. I understand that real growth takes time and trust. That’s what makes the small breakthroughs—a new skill learned, or even just a smile—so impactful. I find joy in these moments, and they remind me why I’m on this path. More than anything, I believe I’m worth this dream because I see the beauty in it. Helping youth with special needs isn’t just a job or a goal—it’s a CALLING. I want to create a space where every child feels safe, valued, and capable of seeing their own greatness. I want to give families hope, knowledge and help kids discover their own strengths in a world that sometimes overlooks them. I know my dream has the power to change lives—and I am already being a part of that change. I may not have all the answers today, but I have the heart, the drive, and the willingness to keep learning. That makes me worthy. Not because I’m perfect, but because I care deeply, and I show up fully. I believe every child deserves someone in their corner—and I want to be that person. That’s why I am worth achieving my dream of helping youth with special needs.

Anxiety and depression are two mental health challenges I personally face. These are very common challenges, but unless you’ve dealt with them yourself, it can be hard to understand just how deeply they can interfere with "normal" life. These aren’t just feelings like stress and sadness that come and go, they take over everything: how I would think, how I felt, how I would relate to others, and how I live my life. Anxiety often shows up as constant worry or fear. It’s like my brain is stuck in a loop of “what if” thoughts, always imagining the worst-case scenario. Even when everything seems fine on the outside, my body feels like it’s in a state of emergency—racing heart, tight chest, trouble breathing. That kind of stress, almost daily, is very taxing. Depression, on the other hand, can feel like an elephant sitting on my chest. I've heard people describe it as a kind of emotional numbness or emptiness. It makes simple things—like getting out of bed, taking a shower, or making a phone call—feel like impossible tasks, with no point. The effects aren’t just emotional; they show up physically as well. Anxiety has caused me headaches, muscle tension, and stomach problems, which I deal with on a regular basis. Depression can lead to fatigue, changes in appetite, and sleep problems. I also deal with these. My sleep in horrible. My work, schooling, and responsibilities don’t stop just because I struggle mentally. But when my brain is constantly fighting itself, it’s hard to concentrate or stay motivated. I typically overthink every decision or feel like I am never doing enough. My depression has caused me to lose interest in things I love, lose time with my children, or feel like I am just going through the motions, which my children and husband have made remarks about. Relationships are another area that have taken a hit. Dealing with anxiety makes me want to avoid social situations because I am afraid of being judged. Depression has made me isolate myself because I sometimes feel like a burden, or I just don’t have the energy to connect. Friends and family try to understand, and that has lead to feelings of guilt, shame, or frustration on my part. My anxiety and depression are being treated. Medication has been a life-changing solution for me, as well as speaking openly and honestly with my friends and family. Small lifestyle changes like: mindfulness, or simply having someone to talk to—can make a huge difference. It’s not about “snapping out of it” or “just thinking positive.” It’s about getting the right support and tools to manage it, as well as being honest with myself and accepting it. What sometimes makes my conditions even harder is the stigma around mental health. Too often, people feel ashamed to ask for help, afraid they’ll be judged. That’s why open conversations, like this one, matter. The more we understand what anxiety and depression actually look and feel like, the better we can support those who are living with them. In conclusion, my anxiety and depression use to define me as a person, but with compassion, support, and treatment, I have learned to manage these challenges and find joy again.

Growing up I always knew that I wanted to do something great with my life, I just never knew what that would look like. In my teenage years and into my early 20's I was working dead end jobs, like retail cashier, grocery store clerk etc. I did not feel fulfilled and I felt as if I was wasting my skills and talent on just letting time pass me by. I got married and had children. Watching my kids grow up opened my eyes to how passionate I am about children. Having a young daughter at home I knew that if i was to get a job I would have to work in childcare so I could benefit from the employee discount so my daughter could attend. I accepted a job working as a Transitional Kindergarten teacher working with children in a daycare. As time passed and I worked with my students, I would occasionally have children with special needs comet o my classroom. By working with them I realized that I was not given the adequate training and knowledge to be able to give these children the best possible interactions and schooling that they deserved. I spoke with my manager and asked if they offered any training for me to make to gain further knowledge and skills to ensure that I gave these kids what they needed. The response I got was "we do not have the funding to providing training specific to special need children, but you are welcome to do research on your own time". This really got me to and that is the moment I realized that this is what I was made for. I started doing research on my own and gaining as much knowledge as I possibly could so I could better interact and communicate with my special needs students. After doing this for awhile I realized that I was not going to make an impact in this setting and knew that I was meant to find somewhere I could get training and education to help these children and their families. I found a job with my current company. I was hired as a BT and immediately was recognized for my work ethic, compassion, drive, hunger to learn and true love for these children, so I was promoted to RBT. I took trainings and classes the second I was offered a position within the company. I have gained so much knowledge and understanding for children with special needs that I love to teach and train others. I am pursing my BS in Psychology with an emphasis in Applied Behavior Analysis to become a BCaBA so I can not only work and be hands on with these students, but I will also be able to train and expand others skills sets to ensure that these students get the possible experiences they can. My goals are to graduate and obtain my BCaBA title as soon as I can. I want to then go to other centers or schools and do training classes and teach schools strategies that they do not have funding for. Schools would benefit greatly with special needs training, but the funding is not there. I want to be that bridge and bring knowledge to the schools that do not have the adequate resources to serve our special needs community, as they should be served.

Growing up I always knew that I wanted to do something great with my life, I just never knew what that would look like. In my teenage years and into my early 20's I was working dead end jobs, like retail cashier, grocery store clerk etc. I did not feel fulfilled and I felt as if I was wasting my skills and talent on just letting time pass me by. I got married and had children. Watching my kids grow up opened my eyes to how passionate I am about children. Having a young daughter at home I knew that if i was to get a job I would have to work in childcare so I could benefit from the employee discount so my daughter could attend. I accepted a job working as a Transitional Kindergarten teacher working with children in a daycare. As time passed and I worked with my students, I would occasionally have children with special needs comet o my classroom. By working with them I realized that I was not given the adequate training and knowledge to be able to give these children the best possible interactions and schooling that they deserved. I spoke with my manager and asked if they offered any training for me to make to gain further knowledge and skills to ensure that I gave these kids what they needed. The response I got was "we do not have the funding to providing training specific to special need children, but you are welcome to do research on your own time". This really got me to and that is the moment I realized that this is what I was made for. I started doing research on my own and gaining as much knowledge as I possibly could so I could better interact and communicate with my special needs students. After doing this for awhile I realized that I was not going to make an impact in this setting and knew that I was meant to find somewhere I could get training and education to help these children and their families. I found a job with my current company. I was hired as a BT and immediately was recognized for my work ethic, compassion, drive, hunger to learn and true love for these children, so I was promoted to RBT. I took trainings and classes the second I was offered a position within the company. I have gained so much knowledge and understanding for children with special needs that I love to teach and train others. I am pursing my BS in Psychology with an emphasis in Applied Behavior Analysis to become a BCaBA so I can not only work and be hands on with these students, but I will also be able to train and expand others skills sets to ensure that these students get the possible experiences they can. My goals are to graduate and obtain my BCaBA title as soon as I can. I want to then go to other centers or schools and do training classes and teach schools strategies that they do not have funding for. Schools would benefit greatly with special needs training, but the funding is not there. I want to be that bridge and bring knowledge to the schools that do not have the adequate resources to serve our special needs community, as they should be served.

Growing up I always knew that I wanted to do something great with my life, I just never knew what that would look like. In my teenage years and into my early 20's I was working dead end jobs, like retail cashier, grocery store clerk etc. I did not feel fulfilled and I felt as if I was wasting my skills and talent on just letting time pass me by. I got married and had children. Watching my kids grow up opened my eyes to how passionate I am about children. Having a young daughter at home I knew that if i was to get a job I would have to work in childcare so I could benefit from the employee discount so my daughter could attend. I accepted a job working as a Transitional Kindergarten teacher working with children in a daycare. As time passed and I worked with my students, I would occasionally have children with special needs comet o my classroom. By working with them I realized that I was not given the adequate training and knowledge to be able to give these children the best possible interactions and schooling that they deserved. I spoke with my manager and asked if they offered any training for me to make to gain further knowledge and skills to ensure that I gave these kids what they needed. The response I got was "we do not have the funding to providing training specific to special need children, but you are welcome to do research on your own time". This really got me to and that is the moment I realized that this is what I was made for. I started doing research on my own and gaining as much knowledge as I possibly could so I could better interact and communicate with my special needs students. After doing this for awhile I realized that I was not going to make an impact in this setting and knew that I was meant to find somewhere I could get training and education to help these children and their families. I found a job with my current company. I was hired as a BT and immediately was recognized for my work ethic, compassion, drive, hunger to learn and true love for these children, so I was promoted to RBT. I took trainings and classes the second I was offered a position within the company. I have gained so much knowledge and understanding for children with special needs that I love to teach and train others. I am pursing my BS in Psychology with an emphasis in Applied Behavior Analysis to become a BCaBA so I can not only work and be hands on with these students, but I will also be able to train and expand others skills sets to ensure that these students get the possible experiences they can. My goals are to graduate and obtain my BCaBA title as soon as I can. I want to then go to other centers or schools and do training classes and teach schools strategies that they do not have funding for. Schools would benefit greatly with special needs training, but the funding is not there. I want to be that bridge and bring knowledge to the schools that do not have the adequate resources to serve our special needs community, as they should be served.

Growing up I always knew that I wanted to do something great with my life, I just never knew what that would look like. In my teenage years and into my early 20's I was working dead end jobs, like retail cashier, grocery store clerk etc. I did not feel fulfilled and I felt as if I was wasting my skills and talent on just letting time pass me by. I got married and had children. Watching my kids grow up opened my eyes to how passionate I am about children. Having a young daughter at home I knew that if i was to get a job I would have to work in childcare so I could benefit from the employee discount so my daughter could attend. I accepted a job working as a Transitional Kindergarten teacher working with children in a daycare. As time passed and I worked with my students, I would occasionally have children with special needs comet o my classroom. By working with them I realized that I was not given the adequate training and knowledge to be able to give these children the best possible interactions and schooling that they deserved. I spoke with my manager and asked if they offered any training for me to make to gain further knowledge and skills to ensure that I gave these kids what they needed. The response I got was "we do not have the funding to providing training specific to special need children, but you are welcome to do research on your own time". This really got me to and that is the moment I realized that this is what I was made for. I started doing research on my own and gaining as much knowledge as I possibly could so I could better interact and communicate with my special needs students. After doing this for awhile I realized that I was not going to make an impact in this setting and knew that I was meant to find somewhere I could get training and education to help these children and their families. I found a job with my current company. I was hired as a BT and immediately was recognized for my work ethic, compassion, drive, hunger to learn and true love for these children, so I was promoted to RBT. I took trainings and classes the second I was offered a position within the company. I have gained so much knowledge and understanding for children with special needs that I love to teach and train others. I am pursing my BS in Psychology with an emphasis in Applied Behavior Analysis to become a BCaBA so I can not only work and be hands on with these students, but I will also be able to train and expand others skills sets to ensure that these students get the possible experiences they can. My goals are to graduate and obtain my BCaBA title as soon as I can. I want to then go to other centers or schools and do training classes and teach schools strategies that they do not have funding for. Schools would benefit greatly with special needs training, but the funding is not there. I want to be that bridge and bring knowledge to the schools that do not have the adequate resources to serve our special needs community, as they should be served.

I have always had a passion for reading. I love how books can not only educate you, but they can also allow you to escape and relax. Most importantly they have opened my mind and allowed me to better myself and know that my dreams are important and achievable. By reading all different types of books over my lifetime, I have gained a love for knowledge and what can be. Books have opened my mind and my imagination and allowed me to also expand my thoughts and perspectives to learn and grow. I have learned that books can open your mind to so many situations that I never would have thought about or considered before. They have also allowed me to be more empathetic and understanding to others due. This has been done by reading books and understanding the different opinions and positions in which the characters may have. The knowledge that I have gained from reading is what has driven me to pursue my BS in Psychology with a specialization of Applied Behavior Analysis to be a BCaBA. By doing this I will be able to help open others minds and understand how the special needs community may think or feel. I am wanting to go to underfunded schools and centers and give training courses to staff so they can further learn and understand the special needs community, especially children, so that we can give the children a better experience in the school system. My goal is to not only better myself but to better the special needs community and how/what we can do to make that happen. By being and avid reader, it has opened my eyes and heart to new experiences, new understandings and being more empathetic. This in return, I believe, is what send me on my pathway to find my passion in life and not only explore it, but chase it with all my heart, I work full time and go to school on top of being a mom and wife. I am proud to say, and impressed, that reading books has truly opened my heart and soul and made me a better person by pursing what is right, no matter how hard or scary it is. It has allowed me to dream as big as I want and still know that I am capable and my dreams are reachable and worth the time and effort in which it takes to gain them. I encourage my children to read books everyday in the hopes that maybe books will open their minds up like they did for me.

My goal is personal and professional. I want to go to schools and centers that are not able to fund special needs training for staff and educate the teachers and staff on how to better understand and help these children. I have always known that I wanted to do something great and meaningful with my life, I just never knew what that was or what it would look like. A few years ago I found my passion working with special needs children who have developmental delays and aggression. Once I knew this is what I wanted to do I immediately found a job within the field, got to studying and obtained my RBT (Registered Behavior Technician) and got promoted. I have grown to fall even more in love with this industry more and more as time goes on. I get to see the progress made with these children, who have never been heard or understood, and it melts my heart and soul. Coming from a daycare that had no training or understanding with kids with special needs, yet they were enrolled, broke my heart. It opened my eyes to see how little society knew about how to understand them. I spoke with my manager and she said that they did not have any training or educational materials to help me further gain my knowledge and understanding to help children with developmental delays. This upset me seeing how very little I was able to help these kids that I was taking care of during the day, and how little interactions they would have with other kids or staff, due to the lack of education and training. I started doing research and educating myself. I soon realized that being at that center was not going to allow me to help these children as I wanted to. This is what made my passion and goal finally click and come to life. I am pursing a BS in Psychology with a specialization in Applied Behavior Analysis to become a BCaBA. By doing this I will be able to work with the children but also help train and educate staff to better gain skills and knowledge. I plan on going to centers or schools that are low funded and can not offered training and education and doing a workshop to give them basic knowledge and training on how to better help children with special needs.

Growing up I always knew that I wanted to do something great with my life, I just never knew what that would look like. In my teenage years and into my early 20's I was working dead end jobs, like retail cashier, grocery store clerk etc. I did not feel fulfilled and I felt as if I was wasting my skills and talent on just letting time pass me by. I got married and had children. Watching my kids grow up opened my eyes to how passionate I am about children. Having a young daughter at home I knew that if i was to get a job I would have to work in childcare so I could benefit from the employee discount so my daughter could attend. I accepted a job working as a Transitional Kindergarten teacher working with children in a daycare. As time passed and I worked with my students, I would occasionally have children with special needs comet o my classroom. By working with them I realized that I was not given the adequate training and knowledge to be able to give these children the best possible interactions and schooling that they deserved. I spoke with my manager and asked if they offered any training for me to make to gain further knowledge and skills to ensure that I gave these kids what they needed. The response I got was "we do not have the funding to providing training specific to special need children, but you are welcome to do research on your own time". This really got me to and that is the moment I realized that this is what I was made for. I started doing research on my own and gaining as much knowledge as I possibly could so I could better interact and communicate with my special needs students. After doing this for awhile I realized that I was not going to make an impact in this setting and knew that I was meant to find somewhere I could get training and education to help these children and their families. I found a job with my current company. I was hired as a BT and immediately was recognized for my work ethic, compassion, drive, hunger to learn and true love for these children, so I was promoted to RBT. I took trainings and classes the second I was offered a position within the company. I have gained so much knowledge and understanding for children with special needs that I love to teach and train others. I am pursing my BS in Psychology with an emphasis in Applied Behavior Analysis to become a BCaBA so I can not only work and be hands on with these students, but I will also be able to train and expand others skills sets to ensure that these students get the possible experiences they can. My goals are to graduate and obtain my BCaBA title as soon as I can. I want to then go to other centers or schools and do training classes and teach schools strategies that they do not have funding for. Schools would benefit greatly with special needs training, but the funding is not there. I want to be that bridge and bring knowledge to the schools that do not have the adequate resources to serve our special needs community, as they should be served.

Growing up I always knew that I wanted to do something great with my life, I just never knew what that would look like. In my teenage years and into my early 20's I was working dead end jobs, like retail cashier, grocery store clerk etc. I did not feel fulfilled and I felt as if I was wasting my skills and talent on just letting time pass me by. I got married and had children. Watching my kids grow up opened my eyes to how passionate I am about children. Having a young daughter at home I knew that if i was to get a job I would have to work in childcare so I could benefit from the employee discount so my daughter could attend. I accepted a job working as a Transitional Kindergarten teacher working with children in a daycare. As time passed and I worked with my students, I would occasionally have children with special needs comet o my classroom. By working with them I realized that I was not given the adequate training and knowledge to be able to give these children the best possible interactions and schooling that they deserved. I spoke with my manager and asked if they offered any training for me to make to gain further knowledge and skills to ensure that I gave these kids what they needed. The response I got was "we do not have the funding to providing training specific to special need children, but you are welcome to do research on your own time". This really got me to and that is the moment I realized that this is what I was made for. I started doing research on my own and gaining as much knowledge as I possibly could so I could better interact and communicate with my special needs students. After doing this for awhile I realized that I was not going to make an impact in this setting and knew that I was meant to find somewhere I could get training and education to help these children and their families. I found a job with my current company. I was hired as a BT and immediately was recognized for my work ethic, compassion, drive, hunger to learn and true love for these children, so I was promoted to RBT. I took trainings and classes the second I was offered a position within the company. I have gained so much knowledge and understanding for children with special needs that I love to teach and train others. I am pursing my BS in Psychology with an emphasis in Applied Behavior Analysis to become a BCaBA so I can not only work and be hands on with these students, but I will also be able to train and expand others skills sets to ensure that these students get the possible experiences they can. My goals are to graduate and obtain my BCaBA title as soon as I can. I want to then go to other centers or schools and do training classes and teach schools strategies that they do not have funding for. Schools would benefit greatly with special needs training, but the funding is not there. I want to be that bridge and bring knowledge to the schools that do not have the adequate resources to serve our special needs community, as they should be served. My mental health has greatly been impacted in a positive way due to working in this field. I am someone who struggles with Manic Depression, and severe anxiety on top of ADHD. Working with special needs children and their families to help them, allows me to self reflect on myself, my goals and my achievements and I feel a great sense of accomplishments as a human being. It reminds me that I am valuable and needed. By struggling with these challenges myself, it also allows me to empathize with the students a bit more and understand that even though I am not going through what they are, I can at least relate to the idea that their struggles may not be understood completely , but at least I can understand that whatever their feelings are in that moment, it is their truth and I am there to be their safe spot. I believe that this field truly needs people who are compassionate and caring. It is my goal to to repair the bridge between the stereotypes of mental illnesses and the reality. I want everyone to be open minded and realize that it is ok to not understand, but it is the effort in which we try to met people with mental illnesses compassionately and whole heartedly. My relationships have also been positively impacted. Working in this field has allowed me to grow more patience and the understanding that not everything needs to be understood, but it needs to be faced with compassion and the drive to do my best to understand. My husband and I have noticed that our communication and been a lot less challenging due to the fact that I can do self check ins for myself to make sure I am regulated. As well as my husband has been able to feel more honest and open within our conversations due to me being more open minded to the idea that everything is not the same and it is ok that it is not. This has also allowed my children to see more patience in the household, as well as more teamwork between me and my husband. I hope that it shows my children how to effectively communicate with others and listen. This industry has changed me for the best in every way. It has allowed me to want to better myself as well as be a better role model for my family. It has put a passion in me that I did not know existed. Mental health is the foundation of a happy life, in my opinion. So recognizing the struggles and excepting that mental health is something people struggle with, only allows me to gain further knowledge.

Growing up I always knew that I wanted to do something great with my life, I just never knew what that would look like. In my teenage years and into my early 20's I was working dead end jobs, like retail cashier, grocery store clerk etc. I did not feel fulfilled and I felt as if I was wasting my skills and talent on just letting time pass me by. I got married and had children. Watching my kids grow up opened my eyes to how passionate I am about children. Having a young daughter at home I knew that if i was to get a job I would have to work in childcare so I could benefit from the employee discount so my daughter could attend. I accepted a job working as a Transitional Kindergarten teacher working with children in a daycare. As time passed and I worked with my students, I would occasionally have children with special needs comet o my classroom. By working with them I realized that I was not given the adequate training and knowledge to be able to give these children the best possible interactions and schooling that they deserved. I spoke with my manager and asked if they offered any training for me to make to gain further knowledge and skills to ensure that I gave these kids what they needed. The response I got was "we do not have the funding to providing training specific to special need children, but you are welcome to do research on your own time". This really got me to and that is the moment I realized that this is what I was made for. I started doing research on my own and gaining as much knowledge as I possibly could so I could better interact and communicate with my special needs students. After doing this for awhile I realized that I was not going to make an impact in this setting and knew that I was meant to find somewhere I could get training and education to help these children and their families. I found a job with my current company. I was hired as a BT and immediately was recognized for my work ethic, compassion, drive, hunger to learn and true love for these children, so I was promoted to RBT. I took trainings and classes the second I was offered a position within the company. I have gained so much knowledge and understanding for children with special needs that I love to teach and train others. I am pursing my BS in Psychology with an emphasis in Applied Behavior Analysis to become a BCaBA so I can not only work and be hands on with these students, but I will also be able to train and expand others skills sets to ensure that these students get the possible experiences they can. My goals are to graduate and obtain my BCaBA title as soon as I can. I want to then go to other centers or schools and do training classes and teach schools strategies that they do not have funding for. Schools would benefit greatly with special needs training, but the funding is not there. I want to be that bridge and bring knowledge to the schools that do not have the adequate resources to serve our special needs community, as they should be served.

Growing up I always knew that I wanted to do something great with my life, I just never knew what that would look like. In my teenage years and into my early 20's I was working dead end jobs, like retail cashier, grocery store clerk etc. I did not feel fulfilled and I felt as if I was wasting my skills and talent on just letting time pass me by. I got married and had children. Watching my kids grow up opened my eyes to how passionate I am about children. Having a young daughter at home I knew that if i was to get a job I would have to work in childcare so I could benefit from the employee discount so my daughter could attend. I accepted a job working as a Transitional Kindergarten teacher working with children in a daycare. As time passed and I worked with my students, I would occasionally have children with special needs comet o my classroom. By working with them I realized that I was not given the adequate training and knowledge to be able to give these children the best possible interactions and schooling that they deserved. I spoke with my manager and asked if they offered any training for me to make to gain further knowledge and skills to ensure that I gave these kids what they needed. The response I got was "we do not have the funding to providing training specific to special need children, but you are welcome to do research on your own time". This really got me to and that is the moment I realized that this is what I was made for. I started doing research on my own and gaining as much knowledge as I possibly could so I could better interact and communicate with my special needs students. After doing this for awhile I realized that I was not going to make an impact in this setting and knew that I was meant to find somewhere I could get training and education to help these children and their families. I found a job with my current company. I was hired as a BT and immediately was recognized for my work ethic, compassion, drive, hunger to learn and true love for these children, so I was promoted to RBT. I took trainings and classes the second I was offered a position within the company. I have gained so much knowledge and understanding for children with special needs that I love to teach and train others. I am pursing my BS in Psychology with an emphasis in Applied Behavior Analysis to become a BCaBA so I can not only work and be hands on with these students, but I will also be able to train and expand others skills sets to ensure that these students get the possible experiences they can. My goals are to graduate and obtain my BCaBA title as soon as I can. I want to then go to other centers or schools and do training classes and teach schools strategies that they do not have funding for. Schools would benefit greatly with special needs training, but the funding is not there. I want to be that bridge and bring knowledge to the schools that do not have the adequate resources to serve our special needs community, as they should be served.

Growing up I always knew that I wanted to do something great with my life, I just never knew what that would look like. In my teenage years and into my early 20's I was working dead end jobs, like retail cashier, grocery store clerk etc. I did not feel fulfilled and I felt as if I was wasting my skills and talent on just letting time pass me by. I got married and had children. Watching my kids grow up opened my eyes to how passionate I am about children. Having a young daughter at home I knew that if i was to get a job I would have to work in childcare so I could benefit from the employee discount so my daughter could attend. I accepted a job working as a Transitional Kindergarten teacher working with children in a daycare. As time passed and I worked with my students, I would occasionally have children with special needs comet o my classroom. By working with them I realized that I was not given the adequate training and knowledge to be able to give these children the best possible interactions and schooling that they deserved. I spoke with my manager and asked if they offered any training for me to make to gain further knowledge and skills to ensure that I gave these kids what they needed. The response I got was "we do not have the funding to providing training specific to special need children, but you are welcome to do research on your own time". This really got me to and that is the moment I realized that this is what I was made for. I started doing research on my own and gaining as much knowledge as I possibly could so I could better interact and communicate with my special needs students. After doing this for awhile I realized that I was not going to make an impact in this setting and knew that I was meant to find somewhere I could get training and education to help these children and their families. I found a job with my current company. I was hired as a BT and immediately was recognized for my work ethic, compassion, drive, hunger to learn and true love for these children, so I was promoted to RBT. I took trainings and classes the second I was offered a position within the company. I have gained so much knowledge and understanding for children with special needs that I love to teach and train others. I am pursing my BS in Psychology with an emphasis in Applied Behavior Analysis to become a BCaBA so I can not only work and be hands on with these students, but I will also be able to train and expand others skills sets to ensure that these students get the possible experiences they can. My goals are to graduate and obtain my BCaBA title as soon as I can. I want to then go to other centers or schools and do training classes and teach schools strategies that they do not have funding for. Schools would benefit greatly with special needs training, but the funding is not there. I want to be that bridge and bring knowledge to the schools that do not have the adequate resources to serve our special needs community, as they should be served.

As a student mental health is extremely important to multiple different reasons. For me personally mental health as a student is very important because I have a history of Manic Depression, so focusing on my mental health is huge. I make sure I check in with myself randomly and take time for myself. Mental health is something that I keep on because if I do not make time for myself and check in then sometimes I can get overwhelmed and stressed out, which leads to burn out and shutting down. My support system is also very much there for me and help whenever I need it. I work as an RBT with children with severe developmental delays and aggression, who unfortunately are unable to attend their home district schools due to lack of resources and undertrained staff. I advocate for my students every day in multiple ways. One of the primary ways I am advocating for my students is through my education. I am pursing my BS in Psychology with a specialization in Applied Behavior Analysis to become a BCaBA. This career path will allow me to not only further my knowledge and skill set, it will allow me train new RBT and staff to ensure that we implement that most successful strategies for our students and their individual needs. I believe helping students, with special needs, and their families is one of the most important fields, and most self rewarding industry. Watching these children come from places where they were literally shoved into a corner and left alone, not taken to the bathroom etc. grow into self sustaining youth brings joy to my heart and so much pride knowing that I was a part of that. All these reasons, plus more, are important reasons why mental health is a very important and important part of my everyday and making sure I take care of myself, so I can then take care of my students. Being an RBT and advocating for these children also help with my depression in the sense that I feel valued and important and needed. It allows me to see the good that I do and be proud of myself. This in turn allows me to be at my very best for my kiddos so that I am a good remodel and advocator for them when needed, and their families. Special needs work is my passion and is my everyday life, not just Monday Friday.

I am an individual with ADHD, who sees it as a super power and uses it to help others. My current job position is RBT. I work with special needs children with severe developmental delays and aggression. I plan on obtaining my BS in Psychology with specialization is Applied Behavior Analysis to become a BCaBA. By doing this i will be a le to work with children with special needs as well as train others to ensure they have the needed skill set and knowledge when entering the field of RBT with special needs children. I plan on teaching other centers/school ways to help these children individually to better accommodate their needs.

Mental illness is something I grew up around and with. When I was growing up my mother was severely depressed and she would say awful things about herself and her life and unhappy she was. This was projected onto me at a young age, which in return made me have these same feelings. They were my coping strategies as I grew up. Negative self talk, thoughts of being better off alone or not being here at all. I always felt like something was missing yet I didn't believe those feelings mattered. I believe this was partially due to my upbringing and partially due to genetics. As a youth I believed these ways of coping were normal and so the more I struggled with these thoughts of self doubt and self worth, the more I feel into depression. The older I grew the more I would act on these thoughts. I use to self harm my self just to feel something and have some sense of control over my life and needs. By believing I was not worth anything this, in turn, progressed into me feeling as if life and school was pointless. I would skip classes, call disruptions in class and at home, I would act out becuase I believed that was all I was. After a few years of feeling this and seeing myself going down a dark path, and remembering the sadness I felt for me mom, I promised myself I would not be like that. I swore I would do what I can to be ok. I made a doctor appointment, spoke open and honestly and was diagnosed with manic depression and anxiety. I spoke with a counselor and was able to gain a better understanding of why I was feeling these things. When I found out that this is common and treatable I cried. All those bad, empty feelings I had about myself were not going to be my forever. This also taught me that this is something my mom did not have to live with either. I was able to get on medication and have an open conversation with my mother about my troubles and how I got help and she also got help. We both now have a very grateful outlook on life and ironically enough, are grateful for what we went through for that fact that not only it brought us close together, but it helped us gain an understanding of who we truly are as individuals. Depression stole about 16 years of my life, but I promised myself I would not do it anymore and I have kept that promise. Depression is something I battle with, some days are worse then others, but I have gained the strength and knowledge to know I am worth it!

My diagnosis is genetic. It is something I have dealt with my entire life and just recently, at the age of 37, gained a handle on it to make it somewhat manageable. My diagnosis makes it so I am unable to deal with light, sounds, touch, smells, movement and more. It is crippling when I get my "attack". By suffering with this illness my entire life I have missed out on multiple opportunities. I am always the person to say "I will have to see how I feel" when asked to make plans to go do something. Without know why or what makes these "attacks" happen i have learned how to live a healthier life through nutrition and mental wellness. I have been open and honest with those close to me, so when the occasion arrives that I may have to cancel plans or show up late, they understand this is something out side of my control. In return this makes it easier when missing am event happens. It also makes it so I am very mindful of my body and mind more so then ever before. In a wierd way this diagnosis has actually allowed me to take the time to get to know who I am, what is important to me as well as how to be more patient and understanding of others with diagnosis and Illnesses as well. As I got older and had kids I hoped that this was not something I would pass along, unfortunately my oldest child also has these challenges. By gaining the knowledge and understanding of myself and what I went through I am not able to help my oldest guide through her moments of pain and suffering, and help teach her ways to help herself. A huge impact this illness had on me through my entire life was struggling to open to people die to the shame and guilt it brought with it. Once I spoke with my doctor and got guidance and help I was then able to open up about the depression and anxiety that came along side this struggle. So by talking to my doctor about one of my struggles and gaining help, I was able to open up about other issues I had and gain help and guidance on those as well. I am now living a nearly "attack" free life and am able to do what I enjoy

My entire life I found that I was "slightly off", as some have mentioned. I always struggled to fully understand readings, couldn't stay focused in conversations or tasks, felt overwhelmed from the smallest things, was told I over reacted all the time and much more. I felt as if I was a burden and incontinence to those who knew me. Until I got diagnosed with ADHD, anxiety and depression, I did not understand why I am the way that I am. After living most my life with these hidden, unseen feelings of low self worth, incompetence, over reaction etc. I finally decided to see a doctor. I decided enough was enough. I was tired of pretending not to be me, just so I was liked. I was tired of feeling sad and kidding away from people and things I loved becuase I did not feel like enough. One day I decided that I am worth it and made the call to set up an appointment with my doctor. I spoke open and honestly and was fearful of what she would say, but I actually got reassurance that these challenges I have been facing and feelings of dread and guilt, are normal for those suffering from depression. When she told me what may be causing me to feel and act these way I sat in the office and cried. I felt so seen and validated and best of all, I felt like there wasn't something wrong with me. Rather I felt, and realized, that I was not in this alone. Once I got medicine and started feeling better I opened up to my best friend about everything and it turns out she was dealing with the same silent battle. I was not only able to help myself but I helped her! This made me realize that by allowing myself to be honest and open, I was actually not just helping me, but others. I am constantly someone people come to whe they need to talk about something heavy on their heart because I can relate. I use to think the world would be better off without me, and I put an effort into making those feelings a reality. I use to self harm to have control and feel. After saying enough is enough and putting myself first I have gained so much strength and knowledge about my health and how important it really is.

I am am RBT in a trauma based center for children with severe developmental delays who are no longer able to attend their home schools due to aggression and the lack of resources and training that the staff has. "I have learned that the purpose of teaching is to bring the student to his or her sense of his or her own presence." - Professor Harold Bloom... this hits home to me 1000%. As an RBT I work with students in a classroom setting to help them get individualized help and understanding of the academics presented. By teaching children with special needs, it allows them to have a sense of self and autonomy. When I work with students I do not put a ceiling on their capabilities or believe they have a ceiling. I allow the children to show me what they understand as I guide them and teach them further, as tolerated. I became passionate about working with special needs children by being a TK teacher at a daycare and watching how undertrained and unknowledgable everyone was about their needs. I saw how the staff did not know how to interact with these children, approach them or even communicate with them. This in return caused fear and insecurities within the children and it broke my heart. I knew that I needed and wanted to gain further knowledge am understanding so I was not a detriment tk these children, but a light of happiness and safety. After sping tons of research a d gaining as much knowledge on my own, as I could I realized that this was where my heart was at. I found a job with the company I work for now and was hired as a BT and immediately got promoted to an RBT due to my passion, focus and drive for these children. Since working with special needs and teaching them as much as I can, in the way they need, I realized I wanted to be a BCaBA so that I could not only work with special needs children, but I could further help out by training new staff and helping them further their knowledge and skill sets to ensure that these children get the best possible care and love. I plan to go to other schools and teach staff about special needs and how to utilize those to every kids individual needs. I want to give as much k owledge to those in this field as possible. This field is the most vulnerable and unnoticed, in my opinion, and my goal is to change that.

I came into this field becuase I wanted to work and had a young child at home. In order for me to work I had to apply at a daycare, so I was able to use a discount on the expense. While working there I had some students with developmental delays. Seeing the little resources and expierence that we were able to offer these children broke my heart. I knew that I was not serving them as they should be served, or understood. This pushed me into my passion of working with children with severe developmental delays and aggression. I joined a company as a BT and immediately got promoted to RBT. By working as an RBT I have gained ample amounts of knowledge about different disabilities and how to help these children with the best care possible. My plan is to pursue my BS in psychology with an emphasis on Applied Behavior Analysis so I can further gain my knowledge and skill set to become to BCaBA to not only help these children, but to also help others gain the needed knowledge and skills that are required to make a difference within this field. I have worked with kids with Autism, TBI, down syndrome, OCD and more. I have found that not only am I passionate about working and helping these children and their families, but I find oure joy and pride in doing so. I bring empathy and compassion and understanding to an industry that needs that. I am a role model for our students, as well as the staff I work with. Working with children became my passion once I took the teaching job at the daycare and realized how important it is to have these kids grow and learn from people who genuinely love them and want the best for them possible. Working with children, especially those with disabilities, has really opened my eyes to need within this industry. I plan on becoming a BCaBA and then going to other centers and hopefully giving classes and lectures etc to help other centers gain knowledge and understanding as well. It is important that people who work in this field know how to love and be passionate about what we do. I am dedicating myself to this plan, and planning on educating anyone and everyone that I am able to reach. Children are the most important role in our world, and we need to ensure we find people who believe that and have passion for this while working with these children.

I am a wife and mother of two. Ever since I was a child I have told my parents that I am going to do something great and impactful in my life. At that time I was not aware of how truthful that statement was. One day I woke up and knew what I was made for.... I found my passion in Applied Behavioral Analysis, working with children with severe developmental delays such as Autism. I work in a school setting that enrolls youth ages 5-21 who have severe aggression on top of their delayed development. I am the last stop before these youth will be removed from their homes and put into residency programs. I was raised to believe that being the best person you can be, is the most important aspect of my personal life. This did not mean I had to be perfect, it meant I needed to try, and it also meant to allow myself grace at those times I needed to be vulnerable and raw. This has allowed me to gain the strength of self worth and self admiration. By possessing these skills I believe that it has allowed me to really be grateful for what I have and how I can help others. My plan is to become a BCaBA and dedicate my career to helping youth who can not help themselves. By following this career path I will make a positive impact on the world, literally one youth at a time. I may not be able to change the world, but as long as I can help these youth in changing their world, I am happy. My career path will allow me to not only work with youth directly, but also help others gain the knowledge and understanding on how they can also help these children with developmental delays find their voice and individuality. A better world starts by helping one person at a time, and this field allows me to see that change and positivity everyday. I further my knowledge and understanding by making sure I keep up to date on any new resources or information that becomes available. This allows me to be my best, so they can be theirs. I am also teaching my children how to love and see love in everyone. Stereotypes are just that, and everyone wants to be loved and treated kindly. These are invaluable skills to teach not only my students, but my children at home.

I HAVE ADHD AND IT HAS HELPED ME FIND MY DRIVE AND PASSION I was recently diagnosed with ADHD, then it all made sense. My entire life people have been making jokes about how they think I may have ADHD and laugh at my impulses, yet they did not understand my struggles. How could they, I didn't even know I had ADHD. I found myself constantly having a wandering mind during academic periods and conversations, losing items just to find they were right in front of me, having a sense of over stimulation when I was told it shouldn't be such a big deal, intense mental exhaustion yet an unimaginable random burst of energy, re-reading the same thing again and again just to find myself not comprehending what I read and more. These struggles made academic life miserable and intolerable. It also extended to my personal life with family and friends, as well as never wanting to be around people because of how I felt they saw me and the expectations I ASSUMED they had for me. This lead to over eating and depression as well as a multitude of other mental struggles and challenges I faced. By having ADHD I have found that I use to shut myself off, "numb" myself to others and what was happening around me. I would tell myself this was normal and that I was just stupid or incompetent. It effective my life in such a way that I believed there was something wrong with me. That I would never be smart enough to go anywhere in life and what I am dealing with was not an everyday, common challenge others face. I have always enjoyed education, yet struggled to achieve what I knew I was able to achieve. I want to consistently grow as a person both in my personal life as well as my career and since I have received my diagnosis I have not only realized that this is an easily managed illness, but it is something that a big part of the population deal with and it does not make me weak or worthless. After learning about my ADHD I have found strengths and ways to feel proud of myself. I now take my medications regularly. I do not hide my ADHD from the world, I embrace it. I have found ways to handle the hardships as well as strategies to grow the areas I found trouble with. Every since I got my diagnosis I have decided that it is time I follow my dream of becoming a BCaBA and helping children with autism. ADHD has turned out to be my superpower and drive/determination. I have since had conversations with my co-workers, families and friends about what ADHD looks like for me, my struggles and helped them to better understand how I "tick". This has given me a sense of accomplishment and sense of power in which I am chasing my dreams. This has also allowed my loved ones to see who I am, truly, and gain a better understanding of me. My entire life I had no idea why I was the way I was. I thought I was just funny, or blunt or uninterested. Nope, I HAVE ADHD AND IT HAS HELPED ME FIND MY DRIVE AND PASSION. This is the first time I am saying this all "outloud", and it is empowering!

I would create a class that would focus on emotions and self regulation. Not only what emotions mean, why we may be feeling them, but also how to manage those feelings in a safe and effective way. I would hope that this class would not only set a good foundation for everyone's skill set with emotional regulation, but I would hope that it would also normalize the fact that all emotions are valid, and everyone's reactions to these emotions do not look the same. My goal, and reasoning in believing that this should be a class of requirement is, in my belief, when someone is able to regulate and understand their emotions, this may allow someone to better understand their triggers, traumas or how/when to go about seeking further professional help. I believe emotions, and how we handle them, are a base line of how we handle our life as well as experiences within our life. This would also allow more people to be comfortable feeling, and showing, empathy and understanding. Understanding ones self is the first step in helping others who may need additional help and understanding. It is what makes us human. So having a better understanding would only allow us, as humanity, to grow and progress. Emotions are the basis of who we are as individuals, how we view the world, how we participate in the world and much more. I believe it is the core fundamental skill and understanding we should all learn more about. It is a strength and amazing skillset to possess. When we focus on the basics, and base lines, of who are are people and individuals it allows us to not only feel more safe about opening up to others and showing our true self, but it gives us a sense of security and understanding of others as well. Going back to basics is something the most essential, crucial and easiest resource. Understanding self reflection opens the mind of possibilities to try and understand and empathize with others. Humanity is about emotions, so what better way to not only better ourselves, but to hopefully better each other as we go. Things I would implement within sad course, would be role play. Writing scenarios (or real life experience's) and having student randomly read them and ask them to express what they are feeling based off those readings and how to handle those feelings etc.

I use to be extremely close to my grandfather, until we got the final diagnosis,. It is Dementia... I would spend weekends and holidays with him and listen to all his "back in the day" stories, he use to have so many! As I grew older, so did he, and one day I noticed that his memory was not as sharp and detailed, or that he would repeat himself continuously and have zero memory of stories he just old us. It turns out my grandfather has Dementia. When I was first informed of this I had a very little understanding of what this meant, let alone the impact it would have on me and the relationship with the man that practically raised me. Once we got word that my Grandfather was diagnosed with Dementia I immediately started to do research and learn as much as I could possibly learn. Not only for me to have a better understanding of what to expect, but also I needed to know everything I could possibly do to ensure mine and my Grandfather's relationship would still be as fully intact as possible, for as long as possible. Needless to say that the more research I did, the more in disbelief I was about what the reality was that we were about to face. I had no idea Dementia could hit so quickly, and wear on someone so rapidly. My Grandmother passed a year or so after my Grandfather received his diagnosis. This was a very hard moment for him and all friends and family around, not only because her passing was a detriment to our hearts, it also meant my Grandfather would repeatedly ask where she was, and we would have to remind him that she passed. He would always talk about the memory of their wedding and cry, it was heart wrenching!!! When this happened, it really proved to me that Dementia was not something that would get better over time, instead I am slowly, and will continue, to watch my Grandfather melt into someone I don't recognize. I know that my time with my Grandfather is ticking and for this reason I try to see him at every opportunity. We go on walks, eat our favorite foods and share memories from when I was a child. I now have children who also know him, yet he meets them again every time he sees them. I do enjoy seeing the pure joy on his face when he meets his great grandchildren because I can tell he is proud! I have learned that Dementia is a very serious and common illness that, we as a society, do not know or understand enough about. Dementia is not only an illness, but for our loved ones who are diagnosed with this awful illness feel like burdens and inconveniences and as if everyone around them would be better off without them. Dementia slowly changes a person (sometimes rapidly) into a person that ones self does not recognize. The world "abandons" them, as my Grandfather once told me. Throughout this experience I have allowed myself to see the positives and remain close to him as well as make more memories. I have learned routine is a huge, and easy, part of his life that we incorporate to make him feel at ease. Although Dementia is a very serious and awful illness, I believe it has allowed me to see my Grandfather in a light I never think I would have considered before. It has allowed me to truly appreciate the small moments in time with him, to really embrace the memories we are making, and he reminds me just how sweet this world can be. Dementias has impacted my life in more ways then I can explain, but it has not all been negative. My grandfather continues to help me learn and grow and has opened my eyes to who he truly is even more after his diagnosis.