As a first-generation college student attending Yakima Valley College, I am currently majoring in elementary education. My journey in education has been filled with both challenges and triumphs, shaping me into the resilient and determined individual I am today. As a child, I always wondered what it would be like growing up to become a teacher while being hard of hearing. Would it be easy? But then I looked up to my teacher Wendy, she is hard of hearing, and she is a teacher. Seeing her confidently manage the classroom and effectively communicate with students gave me hope and inspiration. Wendy showed me that with determination and the right strategies, it was possible to overcome the challenges and success in the teaching profession. Her example reassured me that I could also achieve my dream of becoming a teacher, despite the obstacles. Growing up as hard of hearing as facing a variety of challenges in my academic journey that others might not even consider. I had to learn to navigate a world that often didn't accommodate my needs. Simple tasks like following conversations or along with lectures or participating in discussion posts required a lot of effort and concentration. However, I developed resilience and self-advocacy skills that have been invaluable in my journey. Technology, like using both hearing aids to help with my hearing, allows me to engage more fully in classroom activities. Speech-to-text apps, access video captioning, an interpreter on screen, and access to an interpreter during orientation and meetings. These experiences have one only shaped my perspective but also support my passion for teaching elementary education, where I hope to inspire and support students facing their challenges. One of the most significant obstacles I've overcome is the social isolation that sometimes accompanies being hard of hearing. Especially when there are group projects, social interactions can be difficult when you constantly need to ask people to repeat themselves or speak more clearly and slowly. However, I’ve learned to speak up for myself and my needs to communicate with my peers and professors. This self-advocacy has not only helped me academically but also built my confidence in social settings. Over time, I've found that most people are understanding and willing to help fit in my needs, which has made a whole difference in both my personal and academic life and makes things easier for me. Once I complete my degree at Yakima Valley College, I plan to transfer to WSU or UW to continue my education. My goal is to become an elementary school teacher and create an inclusive classroom environment where all students, regardless of their abilities, can thrive. I also hope to advocate for better resources and support for students with hearing impairments, ensuring they have the tools they need to succeed. By pursuing my degree in elementary education, I want to inspire my future students to overcome their own challenges, just like I have overcome mine.