Statement of Purpose

 

I am nothing but bones and steel today. I say this to myself often. On nights when pain breaks through my sleep, I reach down and run my fingers along each of my 7-inch scars, one on each hip. I breathe and retreat into myself. I know this place well. It’s what kept me safe upon waking from my first surgery when the epidural had failed. I felt every fractured bone, every retracted nerve, every screw. It helped me through two years of recovery and learning to walk again. Twice. I like to think of myself as a superhero, my weary body reinforced with titanium.

My path to higher education was unconventional. I began pursuing my degree in my late thirties after undergoing two reconstructive hip surgeries for congenital, bilateral hip dysplasia. My experience with disability greatly informed my decision to go to school and study issues of diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility.

My academic interests as an American and Ethnic Studies Major are Gender Studies and Human Rights. I have taken courses such as Human Rights and Climate Chaos, Human Rights and Resistance, Politics of Sex Ed, and Economics of Gender. I have developed my academic writing ability throughout my time at UW and have conducted substantial qualitative research. My Memory Work Project is an illustrative example of my work as a researcher and writer.

After several years of work, I now see where I can apply my knowledge and passion for equity, diversity, accessibility, and inclusion. I intend to apply to the Master's of Teaching program at UW and qualify as a Special Education teacher. My experience living with disability and my future degree in American and Ethnic Studies uniquely qualifies me for this program.