CASNR Change Maker Spotlight: Ava Barajas

Ava Barajas
Meet CASNR Change Maker scholarship recipient Ava Barajas, a freshman agribusiness major with a pre-law option from Clovis, California. She is working to educate students about disabilities.
January 18, 2022

Major: Agribusiness, Pre-Law Option

Hometown: Clovis, California

Please describe your big idea in a few sentences.

I want to make a change in the world through educating students about disabilities. I feel that if we educated students on disabilities, the bullying of disabled students would decrease.

What impact do you want to have on the world?

I want to be an advocate for the disabled community and help students have a better understanding of physical and mental disabilities. I hope to leave a large impact on the world and help others develop empathy.

How has the Change Maker scholarship and CASNR community helped you discover your passion and grow your skills?

The Change Maker scholarship has given me the opportunity to grow my skills. They had us take the Clifton Strengths quiz and meet with a coach! I really benefitted from leaning about my top five strengths and how I can enhance them in my day-to-day life or in my project.

How has your mentor/mentors shaped your experience thus far? 

My mentor has helped me in the first steps of planning the inclusion course. They have advised that I conduct statistical analysis to have a better understanding of what topics I should include in the course.

What advice would you have for someone who is not sure if they should apply or if their idea is big enough?

I would say go for it! No idea is too small if you are passionate and see a need for a change in our community and world. The Change Maker and CASNR community are so inviting and believe in the power of every person.