Best Buddies helped me through my concussion, and helped discover my passion. In January of my sophomore year of high school, I had a concussion during practice and was out of dance for the rest of the season. Missing out on the last few competitions of the season was a big blow. Instead of letting my emotions get the better of me, I decided to focus my time and energy on assisting others.
During my junior year, I was in both Best Buddies and Peer Partners (a class and club where I got to assist my peers who have special needs). I was able to be a group leader for my mini group in Best Buddies. I planned hangouts and activities. I enjoyed spending time with my buddy group, and I liked to be someone my peers with special needs could come to and talk to. I realized how much I loved watching others succeed, and this further deepened my love for helping others. Through the year, I built meaningful relationships with my peers with special needs. I looked forward to my hangouts and classes because I got to assist my peers and watch them have fun during the day. I cherish these relationships to this day, and look forward to talking with my peers with special needs every day.
At the end of my junior year, I had a desire to be a leader in my Best Buddies club to further my involvement and impact. I applied for a board position and was elected Vice President of the club. I was honored and excited for my new role. I enjoy being able to create activities and help run our club. We strive to make everyone feel included and treat everyone with kindness. In my Peer Partners class, I have now grown to be a leader and help others with the games during class. Seeing the impact I have on others is indeed satisfying.
I start volunteering at a place called Little Friends the summer before my senior year. At Little Friends, I am paired up with a child with special needs. I mentor them and help them with games, activities and the large group. I enjoy helping my peers one-on-one, and I love watching our peers work together and have fun during the games.
Working with children with special needs helped me discover I want to be a pediatric psychologist and help children who need it the most. I am happy I have gotten to experience helping kids with special needs, and I look forward to continuing this journey in college.
All things work out for good for those who love Him!
3 Responses
Dear Becca,
It certainly is providential that a seemingly unfortunate setback in your Dance Program resulted in even more meaningful steps in the choreography of your life.
Your compassionate heart and your passion to help shines through when you describe your work with special needs children.
As the curtain raises on each day of your life may you always have that passion and find reasons to try new and beautiful moves in this ever evolving dance of life.
And as the curtain falls at the end of each day may you be content that you have guided another child to stand on his or her own feet, that they can adorn the dancing shoes that fit, for their own dance on this canvas called life.
God Bless,
Georgie Uncle
Rebecca,
It is so moving to read about your passion to help others especially your gift to enhance the lives of those with special needs. You have a gift! Keep making the world a better place. Those who are fortunate enough to be part of your journey will be touched forever.
You are an inspiration:)
Rebecca, it is inspiring to see both the compassion and grit you displayed when faced with a setback in your plans. Not only did you not let your injury stop you, you stayed positive and found a beautiful way to use your time. The bonds you have created with your peers with special needs not only provides happiness for you but I’m certain you have enriched those kids’ lives with your friendship and guidance. This selfless nature along with the strength it takes to push forward through challenges will arm you well in your chosen career path. Looking back at the conversation you had with Dr Bhatia, you are already well prepared for your journey ahead. I pray that you stay true to your kind nature, strong faith in God and steadfast positivity throughout all life has in store for you and wishing you the best of success!