Celebrating Our Unique Abilities by Joseph

Celebrating Our Unique Abilities by Joseph - October 2023 Scholarship Essay

Literature possesses the ability to transport us to different worlds, challenge our perspectives, and ignite a fire within us. Among the books I have read, there is one that has deeply impacted me, shaping my understanding of compassion, equity, and the pursuit of a better life for all. This book is "Disability Visibility: First-Person Stories from the Twenty-First Century."

"Disability Visibility" is not just a book; it is a powerful collection of personal narratives that shed light on the experiences of individuals with disabilities. As I delved into its pages, I couldn't help but draw parallels to my younger brother Andrew, who has grown up with cerebral palsy and profound deafness, relying on a village of supporters and adaptive equipment to navigate the world. Inspired by the experiences of my younger brother Andrew and through the stories in "Disability Visibility," I have learned that true compassion and equity are not mere ideals but powerful catalysts for positive change.

What struck me most about this book was its ability to convey the importance of compassion and equity in our society. The clarity of expression and creativity with which the authors shared their stories allowed me to step into their shoes and experience the world through their eyes. I understood the daily challenges they face, the discrimination they encounter, and the strength they possess to overcome adversity, much like Andrew.

Reading "Disability Visibility" awakened a profound sense of empathy within me. It made me realize the significance of creating a world where everyone is seen, heard, and valued, regardless of their abilities. Witnessing the barriers that individuals with disabilities face, both physical and societal, I became even more determined to advocate for their rights and work towards a more inclusive society, not only for Andrew but for all individuals facing similar challenges.

In addition, this book instilled in me a deep appreciation for the value of equity. It highlighted the need for a society that embraces diversity and provides equal opportunities for all individuals to thrive. The stories within "Disability Visibility" showcased the importance of dismantling ableist structures and promoting accessibility in all aspects of life. It made me question existing norms and strive for a world where everyone, including Andrew, has an equal chance to succeed and be celebrated for their unique abilities.

First and foremost, the relationships I build along my life’s journey will be of utmost importance. My bond with Andrew has been a constant source of inspiration and motivation. I envision a deepened connection with him, where we continue to support and uplift each other. Our relationship will serve as a reminder of the importance of empathy, understanding, and advocacy for individuals with disabilities.

I aspire to cultivate relationships with individuals who share my passion for creating an equitable and inclusive society. Collaborating with like-minded engineers, scientists, designers, and individuals with disabilities themselves will be crucial in effecting meaningful change. By working together, we can develop innovative solutions, technologies, and infrastructure that promote accessibility, independence, and equal opportunities for all. I envision several key milestones on this journey towards equity and inclusion. Firstly, I aim to contribute to the development of assistive technologies and accessible design. As an engineer, I can play a pivotal role in designing and improving devices, systems, and environments that cater to the unique needs of individuals with disabilities. By prioritizing universal design principles and accessibility standards, I hope to enhance the quality of life and empower individuals to fully participate in society.

In conclusion, "Disability Visibility" has profoundly impacted my life, shaping my understanding of compassion, equity, and the pursuit of a better life for all. When I reflect on my life in 30 years, I will consider it successful if I have played a significant role in engineering a future of equity and inclusion for people with disabilities. This vision is deeply influenced by my younger brother Andrew, who has inspired me to utilize my education and career in engineering to advocate for change. Building meaningful relationships, contributing to assistive technologies and accessible design, influencing policy changes, and raising awareness within the engineering community will be vital in this journey. By dedicating myself to this cause, I hope to leave a lasting impact and contribute to a world where individuals with disabilities are celebrated for their unique abilities.