Ilya Flantsbaum Memorial Scholarship

Growing up in a family with Ukrainian Jewish roots has profoundly shaped my journey towards becoming a psychologist. My heritage is not merely a part of my identity; it is the cornerstone of my motivation, influencing my career aspirations, values, and desire to create positive change in the world. My family's history is etched with stories of resilience and perseverance in the face of adversity. We are descendants of immigrants who fled Ukraine during the pogroms, seeking refuge and opportunity in the United States. Their decision to leave behind everything they knew, including their homeland and loved ones, reflects the profound impact of persecution and discrimination on their lives. One poignant tale from my family's past involves my grandfather's dream of becoming a doctor. Despite his passion and determination, he was denied entry to medical school simply because he was Jewish. This unjust barrier shattered his aspirations and highlighted the pervasive discrimination faced by the Jewish community in Ukraine. His experience serves as a poignant reminder of the systemic injustices that have plagued generations of Jewish individuals. The hardships my family endured did not end with immigration; they persisted in our new home. Antisemitism and socioeconomic challenges cast a shadow over our daily lives, shaping our experiences and opportunities. As a result, my family faced economic hardships, struggling to make ends meet and provide for our basic needs. Witnessing my parents navigate these difficulties with grace and resilience instilled in me a deep sense of determination and resilience. These experiences have fueled my passion for psychology and my commitment to creating a better future for myself and those around me. I am driven by a desire to understand the complexities of human behavior, particularly in the context of adversity and trauma. My heritage serves as a constant reminder of the importance of empathy, compassion, and social justice in my work. Moreover, my family's journey has imbued me with a strong sense of responsibility to uplift and support others, particularly those who have faced similar challenges. I am acutely aware of the profound impact that access to mental health resources can have on individuals and communities, especially those from marginalized backgrounds. My goal is to leverage my education and training in psychology to break down barriers to mental health care and empower individuals to overcome adversity and thrive. As I embark on my doctoral journey in psychology, I am guided by the lessons of my heritage and the values instilled in me by my family. I am driven not only by personal ambition but also by a deep-seated commitment to social justice and equity. My ultimate aspiration is to honor my family's legacy by making a meaningful difference in the lives of others and contributing to a more compassionate and inclusive society.