During the start of COVID-19, I fell into a deep depression. I couldn't get out of bed, eat, or find any hope. My parents did their best to help by trying to get me up, encouraging me to eat, and taking me out of the house, but I felt so hopeless that I couldn't see a way out. This lasted for years, and I began to resent my parents for not being able to make me better, thinking they didn't care. In reality, they were trying, but I wasn't. By the end of my sophomore year, I had isolated myself so much that I lost many people I was close to. Being alone made me realize that during all those years of depression, I hadn't tried to get better. I had chosen to stay in that dark place. This realization pushed me to take action. I started seeing a new therapist, who changed my life. She pushed me to be better, challenged my negative mindset, and fought it. I started forcing myself to go to the gym and lift weights, go on walks outside multiple times a week, and improve my diet by eating more fruits and vegetables instead of junk food (but with, of course, an occasional sweet treat). I rediscovered my love for reading and began spending more time with my family and reaching out to friends instead of isolating myself in my room. I understood that it was important to stop pushing away those who loved me. This period of self-care and reconnecting with others made me feel the best I had in years, and I realized that I had taken control of my mental health. Looking back, this experience inspired me to help others with their mental health struggles. I want to become a clinical psychologist so I can support people in similar situations. I've learned that taking small steps toward self-improvement can make a huge difference, and I want to guide others through their journeys. In the future, I plan to continue improving my mental health by maintaining my physical activity, healthy eating habits, and strong relationships. I also want to expand my knowledge and skills in psychology to help others more effectively. My goal is to provide support, understanding, and practical strategies to those who feel as hopeless as I once did, helping them find their way out of the darkness and into a better, healthier life.

Growing up with two mothers in a country where diversity is not always valued has been a defining element of my life. My mother and father divorced, and my mother eventually fell in love with a woman. As the United States legalized same-sex marriage, they married, and I gained a second mother. This unique familial dynamic, however, caused difficulties as I navigated a society where not everyone understood or embraced same-sex partnerships. During my childhood, I noticed that my family structure differed from the conventional ones around me. The absence of peers who could truly relate to my situation made it challenging. I became aware of the skepticism and negativity directed at us by those who did not support or comprehend same-sex relationships. In the face of this adversity, I felt an innate responsibility to shield my mothers from the judgmental remarks and glances we encountered. This skepticism even influenced my choice of friendships, leading me to distance myself from those who seemed unsupportive. The complexities deepened when I discovered my bisexuality. However, high school emerged as a turning point, bringing a welcome change to my sense of belonging. Joining the school's gay-straight alliance club became a pivotal moment. It provided a platform where I could openly share my journey and struggles, finding solace in the realization that I wasn't alone. Beyond being a mere student group, the club transformed into a genuine community, offering me refuge in the shared experiences and hardships of others. My involvement with this newfound community extended beyond the club's boundaries. By actively participating in pride parades, I connected with numerous individuals who shared similar experiences. The LGBTQIA+ community, coupled with the unwavering love of my two mothers, became the cornerstone of my sense of belonging. Moreover, discrimination against the LGBTQIA+ community persists, and the impact is often devastating. Hate crimes, violence, and mental health struggles claim lives every year. In this context, the significance of scholarships like this one cannot be overstated. They not only provide crucial financial aid but also foster a sense of support and encouragement vital for the well-being of LGBTQIA+ students. This scholarship holds profound importance for me in achieving my goals. It serves as more than just financial assistance; it represents an affirmation of the struggles I've faced and a recognition of the strength derived from my unique family background. With this support, I aim to pursue higher education, further contribute to the LGBTQIA+ community, and work towards a future where diversity is celebrated and embraced.