Jyoti Prajapati
Although I have not had much experience working with individuals with disabilities, the LEND program is a great opportunity for me to educate myself and others about them. It is very clear that the disabilities community have limited access to resources, face discrimination, and that they are still continuing to fight for basic civil rights. Whether we are disabled or able-bodied, we have the responsibility to make society more inclusive for everyone. My goal for the LEND program is to gain new perspectives from working with people from all different backgrounds and disciplines as well as use the learnings from this program into practice as I continue to advocate for, provide support, and encourage individuals with disabilities. I am extremely excited to be able to have the honor and opportunity to be part of a family in the Family Mentor Experience and I hope to continue to be with them post-LEND. My long-term goal is to become a general dentist but I will put the knowledge that I gain from LEND into the patients that I will serve and provide care for.