“Dealing with allergies has taught me how to advocate for myself.”

Living with a lot of food allergies has been a huge part of my life for as long as I can remember. For years, I just thought I had bad luck with food or maybe a sensitive stomach. It wasn’t until I had a serious reaction that required two doses of epinephrine and a breathing treatment that I realized how severe things really were. Since then, managing my allergies has become part of my daily routine, and it’s completely changed the way I think about health, awareness, and even the way I move through the world.

Dealing with allergies has taught me how to advocate for myself. I’ve had to speak up in restaurants, classrooms, and social situations where I might have stayed quiet. I’ve learned how to read food labels carefully, ask questions, and make sure I’m staying safe. At the same time, I’ve also learned how to educate others. This can be whether it's explaining cross-contamination to friends or helping people understand why “just a little bit” can still be dangerous. These conversations aren’t always easy, but they’ve helped me become more confident, assertive, and self-aware.

My experience with allergies has also shaped how I think about accessibility and inclusion. When you live with something invisible but serious, you become very aware of how the world isn’t always built with everyone in mind. That’s actually a big part of why I chose to study City and Regional Planning. I want to help create communities where people feel safe, supported, and included, no matter their needs. The way I think about food, space, and equity all tie back to my experiences living with allergies.

Living with food allergies has also taught me the importance of resilience and being adaptable. There have been times when I’ve had to miss out on social events or navigate situations that others might take for granted, like sharing meals with friends or attending parties. While it can be frustrating, these experiences have helped me develop patience and creative problem-solving skills. I’ve learned to find alternative ways to participate and connect with others without putting my health at risk. My ability to adapt has not only helped me manage my allergies but also prepared me to face challenges in other parts of my life with confidence and flexibility.

Even though having allergies can be frustrating or isolating at times, it’s also made me stronger. It’s taught me to be prepared, to pay attention to details, and to take responsibility for my well-being. Most importantly, it’s made me more empathetic toward others who have to live with conditions that might not be obvious to everyone else.

- Renee O.