1. What is your dream career? Why?
I am currently working toward my dream career. In 2014, I completed my Masters Degree in Counseling. I am currently obtaining all the hours and completing all the tests that I need in order to become a licensed professional counselor. With this licensure, I want to own my own private practice. In this practice I want to council individuals (of any age) with a disability. I want to help them realize all of the potential they possess despite living with a disability.
2. What advice can you give to other wheelchair users when taking a flight? Any tips or suggestions?
The advice I can give to wheelchair users that are taking a flight is to stay patient. You will be stopped at every check point, so be ready. Call the airport beforehand and let them know of any special needs that you may have because of your wheelchair. I know this might be hard because other people may not have the same needs as you do, but try to stay nice.
3. What is the biggest challenge that you have overcome so far in your lifetime?
The biggest challenge that I have overcome in my lifetime was moving out of my parent's house. I still had a personal care attendant, but I had my own dorm room. I was scared to live alone, but I knew I had to do it or I would never go. It turned out wonderful and was a great part of my independence.
4. How do you prepare for the Ms. Wheelchair America competition? What is your daily routine like leading up to the competition?
I was telling everyone I could about the pageant and building awareness for the disabled community.
5. What has been your proudest moment and why?
My proudest moment was when I obtained my driver’s license and bought an accessible van. I was given hand controls to drive and a ramp to enter my van. This was one of the biggest pieces of independence in my life.
