Introducing myself and my journal: Advocate for Diversity

About Me:
I work with people who have developmental disabilities. I feel I am a pretty good advocate for the people I support and I would like to make it a career, but I haven't quite figured out how to best achieve that goal yet. I am taking a few classes at Portland State University to decide if I want to pursue another Bachelor's Degree with the intention of enrolling in to Graduate School or if I want to receive a certification that would better help me pursue a career working with people who have developmental disabilities/mental diversity. I do already have a Bachelor's Degree in history.

I volunteer two nights a week at the Central Library in downtown Portland and I also volunteer for a company called REACH. Right now, I am tutoring a 7th grade girl once a week and teaching a brave, wonderful woman how to be more computer savvy. I am also looking in to other volunteer opportunities. I really enjoy putting myself out there and learning from others.

My Passions:
I want to help people who are unable to defend or speak for themselves. I want to give them a voice and advocate to make their lives better.

My Challenges:
I struggle to be a good listener and not interrupt people when they are sharing personal experiences. I also struggle believing the stories I hear some times, especially if they vary greatly from my own experiences.

My Vision for the Future:
I want to make social justice a reality.

My Areas of Expertise:
Interacting with people who are different from me. Different in class, race, gender, sexual orientation, etc. I find everyone fascinating and love getting to know people.