Receiving this scholarship would mean the world to me. It would greatly help me not only financially, but mentally. Upon receiving this scholarship, it will allow me to have more confidence within myself to work hard on my education, so that I can fulfill my dream of becoming a special education teacher. My ultimate goal however, is to even further my career and obtain my Master’s in psychology so I can work with those, specifically with special needs, at the high school level as a psychologist. Knowing that this organization I’ve been actively a part of for the last 3 or so years, purely for the enjoyment of working with such talented athletes, could present me with this scholarship will demonstrate the support in knowing I can become a special education teacher. DVSA is not the only organization I will continue to be involved in whenever possible. I am planning on also becoming an active participant in the special education organizations they have over at Illinois State, such as Best Buddies or Autism Speaks. As you may know, Illinois State University is a very proud supporter of Special Olympics. Now there is a reason why I chose this college to help further my career. Knowing how supportive and involved this institution is with the special needs community, as I am myself, plus the fact that ISU is known for an outstanding teaching program, greatly showed me how that this school was going to provide me with the best education possible. And although this might be what I believe to be the best institution possible, it’s very costly. Which is why I would be eternally grateful to become a recipient of this scholarship. Throughout the course of my life, I’ve always been involved in the special education community. And because of this, it’s truly helped guide me to discover my passion and love for being involved in this community. DVSA has been played a huge role in that as well, more specifically the athletes themselves. Being able to form such a strong bond with them and make amazing friends along the way that I remain in good contact with, had only excited me more into pursing to be a special education teacher. I want to help change the lives of those with special needs for the better like DVSA or any organization I’ve been a part of has. Getting involved at my high school with the adapted gym program, F.U.N. club, and the Special Olympic Team 203, were some of the greatest memories I have of high school. And once again these were prime factors into helping me realize my passion for working in the special education field. It already means a great deal to be considered for this scholarship and I’d be truly humble if I were to become one of the recipients. Regardless of the outcome, I’m still thankful to DVSA for giving me not only the opportunity to work with such amazing athletes, but also a second family.

Julie is attending Illinois State University studying Special Education.

High School: Naperville Central High School

GPA on 4.0 scale: 3.468

Describe your active participation in athletic activities outside of DVSA

Where Kicks Live (nonprofit soccer organization)

NSA Premier Soccer Team (9 years)

Rec Coed Soccer

 List volunteer contributions to your community, school or other organizations outside of DVSA.

Special Olympic Team 203

Adapted PE

F.U.N. Club

Describe your career goals and why you have selected the college(s) and/or university(s) to which you have applied.

I aspire to be a special education teacher by attending Illinois State University. I want to educate those at a high school level. But ultimately, I want to earn my Master’s in psychology to become a psychologist to those with special needs at the high school level. ISU is one of the schools for teaching and they are a strong supporter of the Special Olympic organization.