1. Physical Impairment:

Born visually-impaired, lost rest of sight during junior year of college

 

2. Challenges of Having a Physical Impairment:

Transportation, getting around, and accessibility are the most challenging. These require relying on others and at times can be inconvenient and frustrating. Dealing with society’s ignorance, lack of understanding and acceptance is another challenge.  Working towards independence and making contributions to society can come to a sudden halt because proving to others that we are equal has now become the focus.

 

3. Education:

Bachelors in Psychology & a minor in Sociology, Mt. Vernon Nazarene University

Masters in Rehabilitation Counseling, Bowling Green State University

 

4. Employment:

Graduate Assistant at BGSU Career Center

Program Director at Highbrook Lodge (Cleveland Sight Center)

 

5. Interests / Hobbies:

Ice skating, singing, reading and shopping…going to musicals and traveling…and I love to learn new things.

 

6. Life’s Ambition / Goals / Passion:

My goal is to receive my Professional Counseling license for mental health counseling so that I can help others. I would like to specialize in group therapy and also work with children. In about 10 years I would like to be living and working in Washington D.C. to promote the rights and be an advocate for children and their families.

  

7. Advice “Life Lesson”:

A disability can make it difficult to pursue personal goals, but it does not prevent a person from reaching them.

 

Do whatever it takes to reach your goals. Don’t use your disability as an excuse or reason not to fulfill your dreams.