12/16/2025
Today marks 10 years since I completed graduate school and 14 years since undergrad. Time has moved quickly, but the journey itself has been layered, challenging, and deeply formative.
I completed both degrees in three and a half years, graduating on the same calendar day for each. While those milestones matter, what stands out more now is how much persistence was required in environments where support wasn’t always clear or accessible.
Years into my professional career, I was once asked, by an HR Director why I hadn’t “figured it out”/sought assistance for certain challenges. The honest answer was simple: I didn’t yet know what was happening. You don’t know until you know. Even professionals who work closely with people, systems, and resources may not have the language or clarity needed to advocate for themselves until later.
Through research, reflection, and tons of TikTok videos that randomly found me, I eventually learned that I am neurodivergent. That realization brought relief and validation, not because it changed my abilities, but because it reframed years of experiences that were never “just in my head” or that I was just “acting funny”
This clarity has strengthened my commitment to advocating for myself and for others, especially students, non-traditional professionals, and individuals navigating systems not designed with them in mind.
With that in mind, I’m honored to share that I’ve been selected as part of the inaugural cohort of the Disability Leadership Institute in Southwestern Pennsylvania! I look forward to learning alongside leaders in the disability community and continuing work that centers access, inclusion, and community engagement.
Grateful for the people and spaces that allow authenticity to thrive, and excited for what’s ahead.
