Defying Odds: The Drive Behind My Ambition to Aid Special Needs Individuals by Emily

Defying Odds: The Drive Behind My Ambition to Aid Special Needs Individuals by Emily - April 2024 Scholarship Essay

Possessing an understanding of people who communicate differently has not only shaped my academic pursuit but has fueled my motivation and sharpened my focus in the attainment of my career goal. My life-changing journey started in third grade when I met Alex, a special education student who is non-speaking. Interacting with her opened up to me a whole new perspective on perceptual, emotional, and cognitive differences in human beings, ultimately steering me towards a major in Special Education at Rhode Island College.

Motivated by Alex's resilience and uniqueness, I found myself wanting to play a meaningful role in not just her life, but in the lives of those who share her struggles. Alex inspired an inquisitive spirit within me. The sight of Alex’s struggle for meaningful interactions drove me into learning how to communicate without spoken words. Alongside Ms. Tammy, Alex’s nurse, we found ways to communicate, breaking down the walls that isolated Alex. This process of learning and the joy that comes with each successful communication has been an inspiring journey for me.

Alex’s influence didn't just stop with her, it extended to my academic life, community involvement, and future aspirations. I found myself taking up leadership roles within the school community and beyond, such as being the president of our unified movement and part of the Youth Activation Committee. I was invited to take part in the 2022 Special Olympics USA Games in Orlando, Florida, and Capitol Hill Day in Washington DC, 2023. I have used these platforms to spread the message of inclusion and work towards an educational system that fosters relationships between people of all abilities. My goal is to help students of all abilities form friendships as precious as the one I share with Alex.

Balancing my academic pursuits with the hands-on demands of these leadership roles was a challenge that I embraced with an open mind. My drive to be a special education teacher keeps me focused. Keeping my GPA at an impressive 4.0 while simultaneously leading projects that promote inclusivity for special needs students stands testament to my ability to navigate rigorous academic programs and demanding leadership roles.

In conclusion, the journey that I embarked on alongside Alex is my motivation. The lessons I learned from bring around Alex has spurred me on towards becoming a Special Education teacher, spreading awareness, and advocating for inclusion. Alex, in her silent world, gave me a loud, resounding mission - to empower every non-speaking child with the power of communication, and ultimately, the power of belonging in the society that is rightfully theirs. As I step into Rhode Island College, ready to explore new learning avenues, it is my goal to tear down barriers dividing people of different abilities, to weave a tight-knit community of understanding individuals, just like Alex did for me.