Callie Colgrove of Frisco, Texas, has had her heart set on going to college for as long as she can remember.
The 21-year-old has ataxic cerebral palsy, which affects her balance and coordination. But the disorder hasn’t gotten in the way of her passion for learning – or her determination.
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After graduating from Wakeland High School, Callie joined Frisco ISD’s Project Search program, which provides job training to differently-abled students. As this is her last year in the program, Callie is eager to start earning her degree. She and her family have been searching for a school that will accept her and accommodate her needs.
“She’s always wanted to go to college and be like everyone in her class,” Callie’s mom, Rhonda told WFAA. “But it’s something that we never thought was possible.”
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Lucky for Callie, the timing couldn’t have been more perfect. In 2019, her dad’s alma mater, Texas A&M University, became the state’s first college to offer a four-year program to students with intellectual and developmental disabilities. This year, eight students were accepted into “Aggie ACHIEVE” – and Callie was one of them! She received her acceptance letter from the school in early April. Rhonda recorded as she read the incredible news.
“That means I got in,” Callie tells her mom as she lights up, giggling. She can’t believe it. Her dream is coming true!
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Callie can’t find the words to express her utter joy, but her radiant grin says everything for her. Even amid the coronavirus pandemic, this is one of the happiest moments of her life.
“With everything going on right now, it’s good to have good news,” Callie’s dad, Daniel said. “This is something great for Callie that she’s been waiting on for so long.”
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The Colgroves weren’t the only ones delighted by the news. When their neighbors heard, they congratulated Callie with an adorable drive-by celebration!
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What an amazing achievement! We’re so happy for Callie, and know she’ll make her school proud. She’s already proven she can do anything she sets her mind to, after all.
Watch Callie’s sweet reaction to her acceptance letter in the video below, and share to spread congratulations!
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