My name is Michaela, I am 21 years old and a senior at Texas State. I am pursuing a degree in family and child development. Children with special needs are near and dear to my heart. Although this is not the specialized career i'm pursuing I find myself seeking ways to be involved in this community time and time again. My experience with special needs begins with my family. Growing up with cousins who had disabilities such as cerebral palsy, dwarfism and other genetic disorders awarded me with a special appreciation and love for anybody with a disability. To continue I have 5 years of experience as a swim lesson instructor where I taught children with ADHD, Autism and Down Syndrome. Most recently I was a nanny for a 13-year-old boy with Kabuki Syndrome. I have experience administering medicine and I am CPR/First Aid certified. In addition I have worked with/volunteered for the Tim Tebow foundations a Night to Shine, special olympics and Find Your Sunshine.