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"Consider the positive influence you aspire to have as someone living with cystic fibrosis. How do you hope to inspire and empower future generations of young adults with chronic illnesses?"

Cystic fibrosis has played a significant role in shaping the person I am today, guiding my values, perspective, and aspirations. For years, my chronic illness felt like a defining and limiting factor, clouding my vision of the future and making it difficult to understand my place in the world. Managing daily health challenges often left me feeling uncertain about my potential. However, my college experience has been a transformative journey that helped me shift my perspective. I have come to view my experience with CF not as a barrier, but as a source of strength and a powerful tool to inspire and support others facing similar challenges. When I began college, I did not have a clear sense of direction. Like many students, I struggled to adjust to the new independence and responsibilities that came with it. Balancing academics and social life while managing the demands of CF was overwhelming. During that time, I was still trying to understand how to integrate my health journey with my goals for the future. I knew I wanted to make a difference, but I did not know how. A turning point came during my sophomore year when I switched my major from communications to health sciences. That decision was driven by a realization that my personal experiences could serve a greater purpose. I began exploring careers that would allow me to support others through their health journeys. After much research, I discovered occupational therapy, a field that focuses on helping individuals adapt, recover, and thrive despite physical or emotional limitations. It felt like a perfect fit, combining my passion for helping others with a deep personal understanding of what it means to live with a chronic condition. That same semester, I stepped into a leadership role as president of the Future Occupational Therapists of America Club at the University of South Florida. At first, I doubted my ability to lead or speak confidently in front of my peers. But as I embraced the responsibility, I found my voice. Through collaboration and commitment, I helped create a space where fellow students could grow and prepare for their futures in healthcare. That experience not only strengthened my leadership skills but also reinforced my desire to uplift and motivate others. Today, I am confident in the path I have chosen. My journey with cystic fibrosis has taught me resilience, empathy, and the importance of turning personal challenges into motivation. As an aspiring occupational therapist, I am committed to helping others, especially young adults with chronic illnesses, understand that their conditions do not define their potential. I want to be a reminder that strength can be found in adversity, and that with the right support, anyone can overcome obstacles and reach meaningful goals. Looking ahead, I see myself not just as a healthcare provider but as a mentor and advocate. I hope to empower others to embrace their experiences, find their inner strength, and turn their challenges into opportunities for growth and purpose.