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I recently read an article from Fairfax, Va., that reported 85 percent of people with an intellectual or developmental disability are not employed, even though many want to work. While I personally know how hard it can be for a person with a disability to find work, it's still rather shocking.

Since March is Developmental Disability Awareness Month, I started thinking about everything I've been through and how far I've come:
1. Education -- I earned a college degree in media/communications from Hunter College. After graduation no doors opened! A college professor who I trusted did nothing for me! I contacted about two or more job agencies who deal with getting jobs for people with disabilities. They were hardly any help at all: I told them what my interests were but I never heard from them.

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2. I'm currently employed at the New York Public Library.

3. I'm working on going back to school, and want to continue keeping myself busy with reporting/photography! I enjoy working on YAI's Self-Advocacy Newsletter, reporting for couple of other websites and publications: PRSUN.Blogspot.com, aleida.net, and Community Access Newspaper, and sometimes have been given the honor of working. I've  worked with the YAI video and media team at events, working as real reporter with a microphone, being in front of the camera. And I'm getting good feedback!

In an ideal world, I wish I didn't have to struggle for so many things. And, yes, I also wish I was playing baseball in the Major Leagues. I wish I was a little bigger. However, I do have a fine collection of baseball books and I often feel I could do well in a baseball quiz contest!

I'd like to suggest that people:

And remember, education (in its different forms) is important for everyone!