My Story

I have been disabled my entire life and came into the K-12 system when the ADA just came into effect, which wasn’t a quick adaptation for schools back in the day! I faced discrimination and lack of access throughout my schooling. I had both an IEP and 504 plan due to my disabilities and had to learn to navigate my education and my vocational goals.

I went to college and really struggled for the first two years before finding my rhythm, things I loved to do for potential work to graduate during a really challenging recession which led me to a retail job that kept me afloat, for years. Again I faced discrimination in the workplace and got stuck for a few years. I knew what I wanted to do by the end of college, what industry I wanted to work in, how to navigate that industry and was making the plans to get myself to that next step. That all hinged on finding a job which was like climbing Mount Everest in a bathing costume!

After reaching out for different resources and struggling to find work, I was able to get support for vocational training to begin a career as a rehabilitation counselor. I have worked as a vocational rehabilitation counselor for both state department of education vendor as well as the federal government’s department of Veterans Affairs, I’ve also worked as a disability services counselor for six years and have taught as an adjunct faculty.

My personal and professional experiences have made me keenly aware of the challenges facing all students entering the higher education arena, especially if they’re navigating a disability or chronic illness. 

Now I want to do something about it and really help others learn to adjust and adapt to not only life after high school but after college too!