Ava is a 20-year-old nonspeaking college student who uses spelling to communicate. She’s entering her junior year at Concordia University Irvine, where she’s majoring in Liberal Arts with an emphasis in Creative Writing and minoring in Biology and Psychology. Ava is passionate about music, swimming, horseback riding, and playing the piano — and she loves nothing more than spending time with her family and traveling. As she navigates adult life and higher education, Ava is finding her voice through writing, self-advocacy, and connection. She’s excited to be part of the “Now What?” panel and looks forward to sharing her perspective on what adulthood looks like as a speller carving her own path.