Hannah Hart’s journey of resilience, community, independence at USU

Hannah Hart tells a story of resilience and strength through her life journey. She is a sophomore at Utah State University studying special education. 

Hart said she chose to study special education in order to give back to her community. 

“Growing up in the disability community my whole life, I’ve had people who have impacted my life in various ways,” Hart said. “This has made me want to give back to my community.” 

Mary Abbott, Hart’s grandmother, said Hart was diagnosed with autism as a child.  

“She was diagnosed with those when she was very young, but she’s never let them stop her,” Abbott said. “She is always working and is always meeting new friends. She is not afraid to do anything. She just finds these experiences to do all on her own. She’s very independent and is a self-starter and has really defied the odds with all the challenges she has faced.” 

Anastasia Wein, Hart’s close friend, is a sophomore studying equine sciences at USU. They met through Aggies Elevated, a program for students with disabilities who want to attend college. 

“I know that it was pretty hard for her to leave home, but she is always very happy,” Wein said.  

Wein said Hart is always there for her and is very kind. 

“If I’m having a hard day or something, she always likes to celebrate my achievements,” Wein said. “I think she’s the sweetest person. Her last name is ‘Hart’ for a reason.” 

Hart is a DJ for Aggie Radio where she shares music with her listeners through her show, “The Greatest Show.”  

“I have my radio show every Thursday night at seven, and I do different themes every week. whether it’s Broadway theme, Christmas or just regular random songs,” Hart said. 

Hart said she wanted to become more involved at college, and her radio show allowed her to do just that. 

“I was trying to figure out opportunities for me to get involved more,” Hart said. “I used to be in the institute choir and that didn’t end up working out, so I decided to try something new.” 

Hart was recently accepted into the Disney College Program. 

“I got accepted into the Disney College Program, which means I’ll be living in Orlando, Florida working at Disney World as a cast member full-time,” Hart said. “I’ll start there on Jan. 13.” 

Hart said she will be taking some credits while she is in the program and will be back at USU in the fall.  

Hart said she became interested in the Disney College Program after learning about it as a teenager. 

“I found out about it on social media, and I thought it was the coolest thing and have been wanting to get involved ever since,” Hart said. “I’m thrilled that I can be part of it this year.” 

Wien said Hart is an inspiration to her. 

“It is hard having a disability because sometimes I do feel like an outsider,” Wein said. “I always remember just thinking of Hannah as a role model and saying, ‘Hey, Hannah and I are in college, and she didn’t let her disability stop her.’ She gets out and she has so many friends. She inspires me to make more friends and not let my disability stop me.”