Albiya Thomas

University of Arizona
Majors: Pre-Physiology; Public Health
Undergraduate - Bachelor of Science
Research Assistant

I am a sophomore majoring in Physiology and minoring in Public Health at the University of Arizona. I was introduced to the Sonoran UCEDD through my first-year project mentors and faculty as I worked with Yumi Shirai on how adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities utilize art exhibits as a form of storytelling. This was also my first full encounter with this community and I was deeply touched by their beautiful stories and act of kindness towards me who was learning. My first year was a tough one and I went through a series of hardships before being able to calm down and collect myself and I would give that credit entirely to this community. My love for this community started early and I desire to continue it in the future.