In my junior year of high school, I got into a program called the Department of Rehabilitation Services. This program helps people with disabilities get jobs. I wanted to do something that was related to television. So, my guidance counselor at the Department of Rehabilitation Services helped me look for a job that was best suited for me.
In early June 2016, we found a job at a television station in North Haven, Connecticut. It was in the basement of a tall building that was next to a McDonalds.
When I first started out, I didn’t do a whole lot because my mentor was teaching me how to be an editor and how to use Adobe Premier, which is what they used to edit videos. It was great to be behind the scenes and see how everything was put together. Eventually, I could edit all the videos.
To help me with my editing, I brought my Bluetooth USB drive, which allowed me to use my iLevel® Power Chair and its Bluetooth capabilities. To be honest, it was hard to do for the first time. It got easier, however, every time I edited a new video. I worked there for the entire month of July. I wanted to stay longer, but I couldn’t because I was a minor at the time.
I really enjoyed my time at the television station. I liked it so much that I would love to go back and work there again.
About Zoe Hernandez: Zoe lives in Meriden, Connecticut. A Quantum® brand ambassador, Zoe attends Abilities Expos and speaks with people about her disability. She is currently enrolled in college and hopes to work in a community one day with people who are just like her. Click here to learn more about Zoe.