Reyna
Reyna was raised in Oakland, CA, and enjoys running, reading, thrifting, and spending time with her family and two cats. A former cross-country and track athlete in high school, she frequently dealt with injuries, which deepened her appreciation for the compassionate care provided by healthcare professionals. Her interest in working with the disabled community was also shaped by a lifelong love of the Paralympic Games and by growing up alongside neurodivergent friends and family members.
Reyna attended UCLA from 2021 to 2025, where she majored in Physiological Science and minored in Disability Studies. During college, she worked as a private caregiver for a young adult with disabilities, volunteered at Gerofit at the West LA VA—leading exercise classes to help older veterans maintain their mobility and independence—and interned at the Marilyn Hilton MS Achievement Center, where she led recreation activities and supported members living with multiple sclerosis. She also volunteered alongside occupational therapists in home, school, and skilled nursing facility settings, gaining exposure to a wide range of therapeutic approaches and client needs. In addition, she has remained active in her church’s disability and preschool ministries.
These experiences have been a source of fun and joy in Reyna’s college years and shaped Reyna’s passion for holistic, person-centered care. They inspired her to pursue a career in occupational therapy, where she can help people live full, meaningful, and independent lives, no matter their background or ability.
Reyna joined the Level Up team in 2025 as a Direct Support Professional. In this role, she looks forward to building meaningful relationships and creating supportive environments where individuals feel empowered to build independent living skills. She is passionate about walking alongside people as they work toward their personal goals and is equally excited to continue learning and growing in her own journey.
