I am a resilient and determined African American Black woman who navigates life with both strength and purpose. Living with schizophrenia and a physical disability, I have faced significant challenges, including recovering from brain tumor removal surgery, which has required me to walk with a cane for the past three years. Despite these obstacles, I remain committed to my independence and personal growth. I have taken public transportation and navigated my campus environment, ensuring I arrive at class on time and stay engaged in my education. My experiences have shaped my perseverance, deepened my empathy, and strengthened my dedication to overcoming barriers while continuing to move forward with confidence and resilience.
Who Am I?
As I continue to grow and evolve, I am proud to share that I will soon be a social work graduate, marking an important milestone in my journey. My academic experiences have been enriched through my current internship at Student Accessibility Services on campus, where I actively support and advocate for students with diverse needs. This role allows me to draw from my own lived experiences with disability, deepening my empathy and strengthening my commitment to equity and inclusion. Through my work, I am gaining valuable skills in advocacy, communication, and resource coordination, all while contributing to a more accessible and supportive campus environment. This next chapter reflects not only my perseverance but also my passion for helping others overcome barriers and thrive.
My Trip To
Grenada
Grenada
Visiting Grenada for the first time was a meaningful and eye-opening experience for me, especially because I was there to see my grandfather. He is a well-known local farmer who believes in letting the land feed the people, and witnessing his dedication firsthand gave me a deep appreciation for his work and values. Being surrounded by his farm and the natural environment helped me understand the importance of sustainability, community care, and providing for others in a way that is both humble and impactful.
During my week there, I observed how Grenada, while rich in fertile tropical lands, is also considered a poor country with visible challenges, such as stray dogs roaming the streets and limited infrastructure. The curvy roads and mountainous terrain made traveling an adventure, but they also highlighted the differences in access and resources compared to what I am used to. Despite these conditions, there was a strong sense of resilience and community among the people. I enjoyed every second of my stay, taking in the beauty of the island while also reflecting on the social and economic disparities that exist.
This experience is deeply connected to my development in social work by strengthening my awareness of the person-in-environment perspective. I was able to practice empathy, cultural humility, and observation skills by understanding how environment, culture, and economic status shape people’s daily lives. Seeing my grandfather’s role in supporting his community through farming also reinforced the importance of service, advocacy, and meeting basic human needs. Overall, my time in Grenada not only created lasting memories but also enhanced my commitment to social justice and helping communities thrive despite challenges.