As a child, I used to joke that I looked like a little Dalmatian, my skin dotted with café au lait spots that marked me as different. Diagnosed with a rare genetic disorder called Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) as an infant, I never really understood how “different” I was. Growing up in Prosper, Texas—a small town that has grown rapidly over the years—no one around me knew what NF1 was. I quickly realized I was the only one in my town like me. Explaining the little bumps on my body became a frustrating routine; Most people don’t grow tumors and think nothing of it. For me, however, these spots were just part of my reality. I always knew from a young age I wanted to pursue higher education, but never really knew the right path until now. Because of my NF1, I was diagnosed with an optic glioma behind my left eye just before my sophomore year. The tumor caused me horrible migraines, which made my absences stack up. I had also started physical therapy at the beginning of my junior year, so I was missing every single 1st period and some of my second period on Thursdays and Fridays. In elementary school, my differences made me an easy target for teasing. I was socially awkward and struggled to maintain friendships. I recently was diagnosed with Autism and ADHD and this has helped me figure myself out a lot more. With the very little amount of friends I had, creative arts became my best friend. Art quickly became one of my favorite subjects in school; In that class, I could express myself and let my imagination run free. At the age of eight, I discovered sewing. I started by hand-stitching doll clothes, following in the footsteps of my great-grandmother. Some of my fondest memories are of us sitting together, sewing while watching movies. A couple of years later, I began taking sewing classes. Every Wednesday, the sewing room became a sanctuary where I could forget all my academic troubles, especially in classes like math In 2022, I received my very own sewing machine with an embroidery attachment for Christmas—one of my favorite presents to date. I use it regularly to bring my creation visions to life. In high school, I enrolled in fashion design classes which made attending school more enjoyable. I crafted my first bag and pair of pants in 10th grade, and now, as a senior, I am working on three original designs that will be modeled and showcased at school. After this, I realized I could attend college for one of my greatest passions. I aspire to launch a clothing line focused on accessibility and inclusivity one day, specifically for those who may have sensory differences. My vision is to create affordable designs while donating a portion of the proceeds to the Children’s Tumor Foundation to help find a cure for Neurofibromatosis. Fashion is more than just a career for me; it’s what I plan to do for the rest of my life. It will always surround me, wherever I look. It offers me creative freedom and diverse perspectives on the world around me. Knowing that I can bring joy to others through my designs inspires me to keep pushing forward despite the struggles that come with NF1. I am proud of how far I’ve come this year and confident that I’m ready for whatever challenges college may throw at me.