Choosing a career path begins when you have found a passion for learning about a topic where you actively go out to acquire more knowledge simply because you have a genuine interest for it. Ever since I was a sophomore in high school, I wanted to become a doctor, so I came into George Mason prepared to be a committed biology student. I took a range of genetics and chemistry classes and I even was an intern at Florida International University’s Medical School; I thought I loved what I was learning. It was not until I found my voice, my confidence and my values that I knew the medical field was not the field for me. After taking a variety of classes, being a Mason Ambassador and working with the Mason LIFE Program, I knew what I wanted my career to be: advocacy. This change in academia is one I never thought would happen, but I went from a biology major to a student studying civil rights and human justice and I could not be happier. Having a love for what you are studying helps get you enthralled for the future ahead and wanting to pursue a path where money is not the only reason you want to be at work.

After not only taking classes, but fully engaging myself in everything Mason has to offer, I feel prepare for life post college and the career I choose to follow. Because of my experiences both in and out of school, I have found a liking in helping to develop others to discover their fullest potential. In working with the Mason LIFE Program, post secondary education for individuals with intellectual disorders, for two years, I discovered how I want to dedicate my career to: ensuring every student with a mental disorder has the ability to obtain a higher education after high school. There are only a few LIFE and vocational programs that allow for further education and I want to change that. Due to the people I have met and the backbone for success Mason has provided me with, I am ready to enter the workforce.