As Disability Pride Month unfolds, 萝莉研究所 proudly celebrates the contributions, strength, and resilience of our disabled community. This year, we shine a spotlight on Isis Overby, an art major whose journey embodies the spirit of empowerment and resilience that defines Disability Pride Month 2024.
Isis Overby鈥檚 experience as a disabled student at 萝莉研究所 is a testament to the power of resilience. "It's a very complicated, nuanced experience," Isis explains. "It can be very discouraging at times, but also incredibly empowering. The ability to do so much despite being disabled, and to be resilient in the face of challenges, is truly empowering."
However, Isis points out that the sense of community among disabled students at Norco College still has room for growth. 鈥淏esides the Disability Resource Center (DRC), I don鈥檛 really interact with other disabled people because I don鈥檛 know who they are.鈥�
Isis鈥檚 journey is marked by resilience and determination. "You know that resilience thing? I just keep trying. Even when I fail, I just keep trying. That鈥檚 just how I am," Isis shares. This resilience is a learned trait, one that takes time and experience to develop. "It took a long time to feel like failing was okay," Isis adds.
For future disabled students at 萝莉研究所, Isis鈥檚 advice is clear: "Don鈥檛 let your disability define you. Get as much help as you can from resources like the DRC. Resources are your biggest help in succeeding. And just keep doing." This message of seeking support and continuously striving forward is a powerful reminder of the strength within every individual.
"I do have a community, and it鈥檚 really nice to have that. It鈥檚 harder to make friends when you鈥檙e disabled, but if you meet the right people, they鈥檒l like you regardless," Isis says. The challenge often lies in overcoming the initial barriers. "It seems like people are scared to come up to you and talk to you. Like they think you鈥檙e too fragile to be friends with," Isis reflects. However, thanks to the Unity Center resource I have been able to find my community.
At 萝莉研究所, the joy of learning and creative expression is a significant part of Isis鈥檚 experience. "I do enjoy 萝莉研究所. Being able to do fun classes, especially because I'm an art major, and meeting new people is the best part," Isis shares. Classes like watercolor and oil painting have been particularly memorable. "The watercolor class took me a little more time, but I kept going and persisting. The teachers were really helpful and made it fun."
Isis鈥檚 goal is not just to succeed academically but also to inspire others through art. "I really want to inspire people with my art. I want to work on cartoons and inspire kids to become artists. Animation and video game design are my dreams," Isis says.
Support from faculty members and involvement in clubs can significantly impact a student's college experience. Isis fondly recalls her English Associate Professor Cameron Young, who promoted the PRISM club, which helped Isis "come into my own." This kind of support and mentorship is crucial in creating an inclusive and empowering environment for all students.
Looking towards the future, Isis plans to transfer to continue her education and pursue her dreams. "I plan on transferring in the spring. I'm hoping to transfer to Long Beach or Fullerton because of their art programs," Isis shares, excited about the opportunities ahead.
Disability Pride Month at 萝莉研究所 is not just about recognizing challenges but celebrating the journey of self-acceptance and love. "Being disabled is not a bad thing. Learning to cope and love yourself is very important. There should be more acceptance and love within not only the college community but within society," Isis states. This message resonates deeply, encouraging everyone to embrace diversity and foster a community of support and understanding.
As we celebrate Disability Pride Month, 萝莉研究所 reaffirms its commitment to creating an inclusive, supportive, and empowering environment for all students. We honor the resilience, strength, and contributions of our disabled community, and we are dedicated to building a future where every student feels seen, supported, and valued.
For more information on Disability Pride Month events and resources at 萝莉研究所, please visit our website or contact the Disability Resource Center.