Drew’s sincere dedication and consistent effort is helping him to follow his dream of becoming a multimedia journalist. He volunteers as a radio host with WUFT a student run news outlet at the University of Florida to help develop his professional skills. He is a strong believer in making a difference for the special needs community. Drew volunteers at a number of initiatives which further the cause of the special needs community such as “Softball Palooza,” a benefit softball tournament for Special Olympics Florida and the annual Florida Youth Leadership Forum where he serves as a mentor to children with developmental disabilities and other special needs. Drew also finds time to serve as an ambassador for the Night to Shine Prom at Grace United Methodist Church, sponsored by the Tim Tebow Foundation.

How and when did you start as a radio broadcaster with WUFT-FM? What is the most challenging part of this role?D: January 2018. I do this broadcast with a group. We decide on a place of travel weekly and have to conduct research. We divide the research work load evenly and come together an hour prior to the show. Pulling it all together can be challenging and also exhilarating. I love witnessing our work come together to make an end product.

How are you advocating for individuals with special needs?D: I present motivational speeches across the Southeast United States. I am an active member of my community. I participate in numerous groups at my University, mentor students with disabilities, attend the Florida Youth Leadership Forum, and volunteer at special needs events like the Tim Tebow Foundation “Night to Shine”. My participation enables other to witness the capabilities of persons with disabilities.

What are your other hobbies?D: My participation in these social events takes my extra time and encompasses my hobbies.

Who is your inspiration?D: Tim Tebow because he is faith based and uses his fame to help others. He is has a foundation that helps others while also perusing a career in broadcasting, which is my long term goal as well.

What do you like to do when you are with your family/friends?D: Eat! I come from a southern background and when we are together we have fun and enjoy lots of food. We usually indulge in a camp fire and reminisce.

What are the two things you want to learn and why?D: I want to learn how to expand my platform so I can reach more people. It is important to me that people with disabilities are informed of opportunities to help them succeed, and it is also important to reach out to people who have not experienced special needs so they can find out there is no difference between them and individuals with disabilities. I hope to learn how to produce a show. So far, I have been limited by my physical needs and the areas around the sound board. I think it would be an exciting challenge to be in charge of production and a great responsibility.

Can you give some tips/advice for those in our community who want to become a radio host?D: A radio host has to be adaptable because everything can change in a moment. Know that when you are starting out, your show may be a train wreck, but it will get better with time and experience.

Any special message for our community?D: Do not let a person’s disability define who he/she is. It is only a small part of a person (and everyone has challenges). We are all unique.