Tessa
Can you recall a time or experience when you felt "unboxed", when you broke free from societal expectations or labels, seen for you and not your disability? (This could be related to a job, volunteering, living independently, attend college, etc...):
Towards the end of my high school career and the beginning of college, I was just there to learn. I feel it doesn’t matter if you have a disability or not. You can still learn just like everyone else. After high school, I started attending Foothill College in Los Altos. I received a Certificate of Proficiency in Music History and Literature and then I received a Certificate of Achievement in Acting. I am very close to receiving my AA Degree in Theatre Arts. I’m just there to learn, like everyone else, so it doesn’t matter if you have a disability or not.
How did this experience of being "unboxed" make you feel? (Consider how it affected your self-esteem, sense of independence, and personal growth):
I haven’t experienced being “unboxed” because my personal growth and independence is something I just naturally do – it’s like drinking water for me.
In what ways do you feel you contribute to your own life and the community? (For example, through work, volunteering, hobbies, relationships, or other activities):
I contribute to my community by donating every holiday season – canned goods or what not. I contribute to my own life by being a good friend and being upbeat. I am good at puns, which makes other people smile. I work at a pet store and help customers, and I love any animal that comes my way.
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How did contributing in these ways impact your life? (Reflect on how it has shaped your identity, confidence, and interactions with others):
It makes me feel good to help others, and to take care of animals.
Why do you think people with disabilities are often required to prove that they can contribute to society? (Share your thoughts on societal attitudes, expectations, and any personal experiences that relate to this):
I don’t feel people with disabilities are required or need to prove that they can contribute to society. I don’t feel that I need to prove anything. I’m just saying that it depends on the disability. For me, no one thinks I’m disabled. They think I’m just a normal person because I look normal, whatever that means.
How does this expectation to continually prove oneself affect you personally? (Consider both positive and negative impacts, including any motivation it provides or frustration it causes):
Does the expectation to continually prove oneself affect me? Noooo! Because I don’t try to prove myself.
What message would you like to share with the world about the contributions of people with disabilities? (This can be a message of advocacy, awareness, or inspiration):
I don’t know.
Is there anything else you would like to share about your journey or the importance of this exhibit?:
Zach’s exhibit is cool.