I am a sophomore at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, majoring in Psychology with a minor in Chemistry. My academic and career aspirations are deeply rooted in my background and personal experiences, which have shaped my passion for psychiatry and my commitment to mental health research and advocacy. Growing up in a structured environment where excellence was expected, I often felt trapped in a rigid framework that left little room for self-exploration. My childhood revolved around classical music, specifically the violin, which I pursued with discipline and intensity. While I was highly skilled, I struggled with the increasing pressure and competitiveness, feeling as though my identity had been reduced to my achievements. I was afraid to express my unhappiness because I worried it would mean disappointing those who had invested in my success. This emotional turmoil made me deeply aware of the internal struggles that often go unnoticed in high-achieving individuals, especially those who appear outwardly successful but may be suffering in silence. My experiences as a caregiver and volunteer at UNC Hospitals have further shaped my desire to pursue psychiatry. As a caregiver for elderly patients, I witnessed firsthand how psychological and emotional well-being influence overall health. Conversations with patients battling neurodegenerative diseases, depression, and anxiety reinforced my belief in the necessity of holistic and compassionate psychiatric care. Seeing how mental health issues affected patients’ physical health and quality of life solidified my desire to contribute to this field. Additionally, my research interests in psychiatry have led me to explore neural mechanisms underlying addiction and cognitive function, providing me with valuable insights into how mental health disorders develop and persist. As an Asian American, I have also seen how cultural stigmas surrounding mental health prevent individuals from seeking help. Within many Asian communities, mental health is often overlooked or dismissed, leading many individuals to suffer in isolation. I hope to contribute to breaking these barriers by advocating for accessible and culturally competent psychiatric care. By increasing awareness and improving mental health education, I want to help bridge the gap between mental health care and communities that have traditionally stigmatized seeking psychological support. Ultimately, my background has driven me to view psychiatry not only as a scientific discipline but as a means of fostering understanding, healing, and empowerment. Through research and clinical practice, I aspire to continue Dr. Shuqiao Yao’s mission by advancing our knowledge of mental health and improving care for those in need.