Meet 2023 Diabetes Scholar Fernando O
Beyond Type 1 is honored to highlight the 2023 Class of Diabetes Scholars, which make up our future doctors, nurses, policymakers, educators, pilots, athletes and more!
Read this Q+A to get to know more about one of our 24 recipients this year and Fernando’s aspirations and hopes for college.
What are you most looking forward to in college?
I’m looking forward to forming various connections with people whose cultural backgrounds are different from mine. Either through student organizations or my assigned residence hall, I want to be able to submerge myself in learning about distinct customs with the purpose of appreciating one another. It will also offer new experiences to further create a more nurturing environment to encourage cultural diversity and connection.
How are you preparing yourself and your diabetes management for college?
I’m preparing myself by first discussing the necessary steps to manage my academic work as well as diabetes care with my primary doctor. I have also contacted the university’s department in charge of student accommodations to guarantee possible arrangements while living on campus.
I researched the many resources offered by the university I’m attending this fall that will support an active lifestyle and good nutrition to further assist my diabetes management and my overall health.
What advice do you have for future BT1 Scholars?
Having diabetes while being on the path to go to college can be scary but manageable!
Make sure to inform yourself by researching what is offered by your college to help you manage your diabetes. Stay in contact with your primary doctor to further discuss any changes to your plan.
Most importantly, be yourself and experience what you want to experience! Don’t let diabetes control you. You are in control of your diabetes.
We’re all very excited for these bright Scholars, so make sure to learn more about the rest of the class of 2023.
