Caitlyn, 20 – FUNDED
How the 1000 Dreams Fund helped me
I used my 1000 Dreams Grant to purchase textbooks for my current semester. Since I am completing my final semester I am enrolled in my senior capstone course, which ensures that I am well qualified to earn my bachelor’s degree. I am also finishing a course for my minor and taking a few other things needed to finish up. Not having to pay for books this semester was amazing, because I am starting graduate school this summer and that will bring a whole new round of expenses. This allowed me crucial time to save money for graduate school.
My Story
I’ve always dreamed of having a career where I could “help people” through interpersonal relationships or in the medical field. Very early in my life, I developed a passion for working with individuals with special needs. My passion really started to grow when I volunteered at a summer camp for children with special needs. I knew I wanted to do something like that for the rest of my life. However, previous to my camp experience, I was in an accident that fractured my shoulder, and I had to undergo physical therapy. I was so grateful for the help I received from my therapist that I thought maybe I would pursue a career in therapy. In high school, I found a mentor who was an Occupational Therapist, and that was the first time I was able to put a name to what I wanted to do with my life. With Occupational Therapy, I could combine my experience in the medical field with my passion for individuals with special needs. I went on to Rockhurst University, which has a special program to finish Occupational Therapy school in 5 years, and I have loved every minute of my time at Rockhurst making new friends and pursuing my dream.
My Inspiration
My inspiration comes from my mentor, my family, but most of all from God my creator and heavenly Father.
Challenges I Face
The challenges I have faced have been mostly financial. College is so expensive and I wouldn’t be able to pursue my dream without scholarships to help me finance my education. Science courses tend to have very expensive textbooks, and my anatomy book and lab manual next semester is about $400. That is a lot in addition to tuition, room and food.
With the funding I will…
I used my 1000 Dreams Grant to purchase textbooks for my current semester. Since I am completing my final semester I am enrolled in my senior capstone course, which ensures that I am well qualified to earn my bachelor’s degree. I am also finishing a course for my minor and taking a few other things needed to finish up. Not having to pay for books this semester was amazing, because I am starting graduate school this summer and that will bring a whole new round of expenses. This allowed me crucial time to save money for my next round of textbook purchases.
My quote of inspiration for others
If I could positively impact the world in one way, I would do exactly what I’m doing right now- pursue the calling that God has placed in front of me. In the future, I would love to start a scholarship fund for kids needing money to pursue their dreams. I feel convicted to give back because of all those that have given to me in this time of need.
