Over the last couple of weeks, students all across Kansas have been sharpening their pencils and loading up their backpacks in preparation for school to start. Incoming freshman, Dezirae La Barbera, recently started her Fall semester at Shawnee Heights High School in Topeka, Kansas.

When asked about how the transition into high school is going, Dezirae mentioned how she has a lot more independence and that the teachers trust her to do her own thing.

"The lunches are better, too," said La Barbera.

Dezirae is enjoying the new subjects as well.

"I really like geography because it is kind of hard," she said. "I can actually challenge myself."

Another subject Dezirae mentioned she enjoys is English.

"I like to write stories and poems; it allows me to really express myself," La Barbera said.

Dezirae is a student with a disability who uses a power wheelchair. She mentioned it can be hard for her to talk to people because she is shy. Before starting the semester, her father gave her a bit of encouragement by saying that she would make more friends because the students are more mature in high school. Like any student, she faces challenges, and she knows what she has to do to meet her goals.

As for her high school plans, Dezirae signed up for the international club. She also plans to join a book club and the videogame club in the near future. In her spare time, she enjoys watching YouTube videos on her laptop. She also likes spending time with family watching movies and playing board games.

Dezirae has some advice to give for someone else who might be making the transition into high school.

"It is not as scary as it sounds. People will probably hang out with disabled people because they want to expand their horizons," she said. "People want to talk to me; I just have to be myself."

Good luck to Dezirae and all the students who are starting their new year. Make this year one to remember!