Let’s Talk About the Fun Stuff

The first thing most people notice about me is my disability. It’s the part of me that tends to speak the loudest before I even say a word. But while it’s definitely part of who I am, it’s not the whole story. Not even close. So today, I want to talk about the rest of me, the parts that don’t always get the spotlight.

Let’s start with something fun: I love crafting. Like, really love it. Knitting, making friendship bracelets, painting, building LEGO flowers, if it involves colors, textures, or getting creative, I’m in. There’s something so calming about making something with your hands, and it gives me space to express myself without words. Its my favorite way to wind down at the end of a day.

I’m also a total music nerd. I play saxophone, clarinet, flute, ukulele, and piano (yes, it’s a lot, I like to keep things interesting). Music has always been a big part of my life, and each instrument gives me a different way to connect with myself and the world around me.

Alongside creating music, I also love listening to it. One of my favorite things to do is go to concerts. It doesn’t matter if it’s in a big arena or a cozy coffee shop—I just love live music. I pretty much always have music playing from my phone, and I’m a big Noah Kahan and Taylor Swift gal. Their lyrics hit me right in the feels every time.

Outside of my hobbies, I’m also deeply committed to my education. I’m a first-generation college student at the University of Alabama, studying Human Development and Family Studies with a minor in Digital Consumer Engagement. If everything goes as planned, I’ll graduate with my bachelor’s in Spring 2027 and have one more semester of my Accelerated Masters Program. This means I will hopefully graduate with my master's in Child Life in Fall 2027. I’ve always loved learning and helping others, so being on this path means a lot to me. I’m involved in campus life too—like, a lot.

I work as a first-year advisor, serve as a student coordinator and ambassador for first-gen programming, and I’m the president of a club for students in the College of Human Environmental Sciences. It’s a full plate, but I love being part of something bigger than myself, especially when it helps other students find their footing and feel seen. I love being on campus at UA and the community that comes with it.

And then, there’s Arlo—my dog, my sidekick, my little ball of joy. He’s my emotional support on four legs. Whether it’s cuddling after a long day or just playing around the house, Arlo has this magical way of making everything feel okay.

So yes, I’m disabled. But I’m also a crafter, a musician, a student, a leader, a friend, and a dog mom. I’m someone who’s working hard to build a meaningful life, not in spite of my disability, but alongside it.

There’s so much more to me than what you see at first glance. Thanks for taking the time to get to know the rest of me!