Thank you for considering my application for the Damodhar Masram Excellence Scholarship. My academic and professional experiences reflect the ambition, resilience, and commitment to innovation that this scholarship seeks to honor. While I am not a first-generation immigrant, I am deeply inspired by the values this scholarship represents and how they align with my journey. I am currently pursuing dual graduate degrees: a Master of Science in Industrial-Organizational Psychology and an MBA in Project Management. These programs allow me to integrate psychological insights with organizational efficiency to address real-world challenges. My passion lies in improving workplace systems, fostering fairness, and using innovative methods to drive organizational success. My studies, shaped by my unique personal and professional experiences, equip me to make meaningful contributions in advancing workplace dynamics. My career path has been centered on leadership and collaboration. As a regional trainer, I was responsible for interviewing, hiring, and onboarding new associates. This role required me to create tailored training programs and foster environments where individuals could excel. One of the most rewarding aspects of this role was empowering others to achieve their goals, reflecting my commitment to nurturing growth and inclusivity in the workplace. In addition to my work as a trainer, I served as an instructional assistant, supporting students with Autism and Asperger’s Syndrome. This experience further developed my patience, empathy, and adaptability, qualities I carry into all my endeavors. My professional journey has not been without challenges. Experiencing workplace stress and navigating recovery taught me the importance of resilience and self-care. These challenges shaped my desire to create environments where employees feel supported and valued. Recognizing the need for systemic change, I focused my academic research on areas such as performance management and talent development, aiming to design equitable and sustainable solutions for organizations. Innovation is a key driver of my professional aspirations. I am particularly interested in integrating technology into organizational systems to enhance transparency and accessibility. For example, my research explores the potential of blockchain applications in secure workplace communication, as well as leveraging digital tools to improve access to professional development for underrepresented groups. This focus on cutting-edge solutions reflects my commitment to advancing the field in alignment with the legacy of Damodhar Masram, who believed in the transformative power of knowledge and innovation. If awarded this scholarship, I will honor Damodhar Masram’s vision by continuing to explore and implement innovative practices in organizational psychology and project management. This scholarship would alleviate the financial burden of my graduate studies, allowing me to dedicate more time and energy to research and professional initiatives. Beyond financial support, this scholarship would serve as a testament to the resilience and drive necessary to succeed, reinforcing my commitment to making a lasting impact in my field. Damodhar Masram’s legacy inspires me to use education as a tool for positive change. Through my work, I strive to create inclusive systems that empower individuals and drive meaningful progress. Thank you for the opportunity to share my story. I am deeply grateful for your consideration of my application and for the chance to contribute to this legacy of excellence and innovation.

My name is Courtney Weeks, and I am a first-generation graduate student pursuing an MBA in Project Management alongside a Master of Science in Industrial-Organizational Psychology. While higher education has always been a significant challenge, my journey has been uniquely shaped by my role as a caregiver for my younger sister, whose life has been marked by extraordinary adversity. Caregiving for my sister has been one of the most profound and defining experiences of my life. From a young age, she exhibited behaviors and thought patterns that reinforced suicidal tendencies, leading to her first 5150 psychiatric hold at the age of 12. Supporting her through these crises required me to step into a role of unwavering emotional and logistical support. I coordinated with mental health professionals, advocated for her needs in school, and provided a stable presence during moments of deep uncertainty. Her high school years brought new challenges. She survived a school shooting—the first ever in our town—which left an indelible mark on her mental health. The trauma of that event, compounded by the isolation of the COVID-19 shutdown, created an environment where her struggles intensified. As her caregiver, I became her anchor, helping her navigate therapy, manage her emotions, and rebuild a sense of safety and normalcy in her life. Balancing these responsibilities with my academic and professional pursuits has been both challenging and transformative. Caregiving has taught me resilience, empathy, and the importance of adaptability. It has shaped my ability to prioritize effectively, communicate with compassion, and approach problems with a solutions-oriented mindset. These qualities have not only influenced my personal growth but have also become integral to my academic and career aspirations. My experiences as a caregiver have deeply informed my goals. Through my studies in project management and organizational psychology, I aim to create systems and programs that support mental health and well-being in both personal and professional settings. I am particularly passionate about fostering inclusive environments where individuals feel valued and supported, regardless of the challenges they face. My sister’s journey has shown me the critical importance of advocacy and the power of community in helping individuals overcome adversity. Receiving the Cariloop Caregiver Scholarship would be transformative for me. This scholarship would alleviate the financial burden of graduate education, allowing me to focus more fully on my studies and caregiving responsibilities. It would enable me to dedicate more time to research and initiatives that promote mental health awareness and support systems for caregivers and those they care for. Beyond financial support, this scholarship represents recognition of the resilience, compassion, and dedication that caregivers bring to their roles—qualities that I strive to embody every day. As I continue my educational journey, I am committed to using my knowledge and experiences to make a meaningful impact on the world around me. Caregiving has taught me the value of perseverance, the importance of empathy, and the strength that comes from supporting others. This scholarship would not only support my academic endeavors but also amplify my ability to advocate for and empower others, creating a lasting legacy of care and collaboration. Thank you for considering my application. It is an honor to share my story, and I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to pursue my dreams while advocating for a brighter and more inclusive future.

My name is Courtney Weeks, and I am a first-generation graduate student pursuing an MBA in Project Management alongside a Master of Science in Industrial-Organizational Psychology. My dedication to higher education is fueled by a desire to overcome challenges, embrace personal growth, and contribute meaningfully to society through my academic and professional pursuits. As a first-generation college student, I have navigated the complexities of higher education without the guidance of family experience or familiarity with the process. This has required me to develop resilience, adaptability, and resourcefulness as I balance the demands of rigorous academic programs with full-time work. I have learned to thrive in challenging environments by leaning on community support systems, remaining focused on my goals, and finding innovative solutions to overcome obstacles. Professionally, I have taken on roles that emphasize leadership, mentorship, and collaboration. As a regional trainer, I have been responsible for interviewing, hiring, and onboarding associates while fostering their success through tailored training programs. In this role, I honed my ability to empower individuals and create a collaborative environment where everyone could thrive. Similarly, my work as an instructional assistant involved supporting students with Autism and Asperger's Syndrome, allowing me to further develop patience, empathy, and problem-solving skills. These experiences reflect my passion for inclusivity and accessibility, values that I carry into every aspect of my life. My journey has not been without adversity. During a period of workplace stress leave compounded by the effects of COVID, I faced significant challenges to both my physical and mental health. These experiences underscored the importance of self-care and resilience, motivating me to embrace opportunities for growth even in the face of hardship. Through a structured care plan focused on recovery and well-being, I was able to rebuild my strength and recommit myself to my academic and professional aspirations. My studies are deeply intertwined with my ambition to drive meaningful change. By combining the strategic principles of project management with the psychological insights gained through my organizational psychology coursework, I aim to address global challenges such as improving workplace dynamics, promoting diversity, and advancing employee wellness. I envision a future where organizations prioritize collaboration, equity, and inclusivity, fostering environments where individuals from all backgrounds can succeed and contribute to their communities. This scholarship represents an incredible opportunity to honor the legacy of Michael J. Edwards by using my education to make a positive impact on society. With your support, I will continue to amplify the voices of underrepresented individuals, advocate for diversity, and develop innovative solutions that address real-world challenges. My journey as a first-generation college student has taught me the importance of perseverance, ambition, and impact, and I am committed to using these qualities to inspire progress and bring people together. Thank you for considering my application. I am grateful for the chance to pursue education that embodies inclusivity, collaboration, and global impact, and I look forward to contributing meaningfully to the betterment of society.

Being a first-generation college student is both an inspiring privilege and a deeply personal journey for me. My decision to pursue higher education stems from a profound desire to honor the legacy of my late grandfather, who was the only one in our family to achieve this level of education. As a child, I saw how his unwavering determination and quiet strength held our family together. He was the bond that tied us all, teaching us the values of perseverance and ambition. Tragically, we lost him far too soon on Good Friday in April 2006, at just 60 years old, when Vietnam-induced leukemia claimed his life. Despite this loss, his influence remains a guiding force in my life, and I strive to continue the path he began—building a future both he and I can be proud of. At times, this journey has felt particularly challenging as I face the realities of mental illness, specifically symptoms of bipolar disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), anxiety, and depression. These conditions bring forth struggles such as mental fog, fatigue, insomnia, indecision, and emotional distress, making academic responsibilities an uphill battle. OCD manifests in an intense need for precision, often delaying task completion and creating significant stress. Anxiety contributes to racing thoughts and difficulty concentrating, while depression results in diminished motivation and low energy, further complicating my ability to manage college’s demands. Through therapy, psychiatric care, and ongoing adjustments to my treatment plan, I work tirelessly to manage these symptoms and move forward in my education despite setbacks. Being the first in my family to attend college has also come with unique barriers beyond mental health. Without a familial precedent for navigating the higher education system, I have had to learn on my own how to approach the application process, obtain financial aid, and understand what to expect as a student. Financial constraints have posed additional challenges, requiring me to balance professional obligations, family responsibilities, and academic demands all at once. Each obstacle has tested my resilience and determination, yet I’ve discovered a strength within myself to persist and thrive, echoing my grandfather’s resolve. Preparation for this journey has been rooted in unwavering ambition and deliberate effort. Recognizing the significance of mental health, I’ve engaged in regular therapy, medication management, and self-improvement practices to foster stability and resilience. I’ve sought mentorship, academic coaching, and financial guidance to navigate the complexities of college life more effectively. Moreover, my commitment to self-reflection and growth has enabled me to turn challenges into stepping stones, prioritizing both academic success and personal wellness. Ultimately, higher education symbolizes more than professional advancement for me; it’s a means of carrying forward my grandfather’s legacy and creating a life imbued with purpose and substance. Despite setbacks and adversities, I remain committed to achieving my MBA in Project Management. I hope to inspire future first-generation students to embrace their own journeys with ambition, drive, and perseverance—reminding them that our challenges do not define us but rather illuminate the strength we hold within.

Why Mental Health is Important to Me as a Student and Advocate Mental health has played a major role in my life, influencing my beliefs, relationships, and career goals. I’ve personally faced mental health challenges and have seen similar struggles within my family. Professionally, I spent over six years working in addiction treatment and mental health advocacy in Calabasas, Malibu, and Ventura County. These experiences opened my eyes to how complex mental health issues can be and sparked a deep passion for helping others find the support they need. As a student, mental health is crucial because it directly affects my ability to succeed in school. I’m currently enrolled in two master’s programs while also pursuing a certification in retail management. On top of that, I work full-time and have two part-time jobs, which can be overwhelming at times. Maintaining my mental health allows me to manage these responsibilities, stay focused, and handle the pressures of daily life. Without taking care of my mental health, I wouldn’t be able to keep up with my academic and personal commitments. In my community, I’ve always advocated for mental health by encouraging open conversations about it and supporting others in their struggles. I’ve witnessed firsthand how the stigma around mental health can prevent people from getting help. Sadly, I’ve lost several friends to mental health issues like anxiety, depression, addiction, and borderline personality disorder. Their losses reinforced my commitment to breaking the stigma and making sure people know they aren’t alone. Through my work, I’ve seen both the transformative power of effective mental health treatment and the devastating consequences when people can’t or don’t seek help. I believe it’s critical to make mental health resources accessible to everyone and to promote an environment where seeking help is seen as a sign of strength, not weakness. I regularly share my knowledge and experience with friends, family, and colleagues, encouraging them to prioritize their mental well-being. Whether helping someone find resources or simply listening to their struggles, I try to be a source of support and guidance for those around me. As I continue my education, I plan to focus on trauma recovery, addiction treatment, and comprehensive mental health care. My goal is to make a direct impact by helping those who need it most, while also advocating for a society that prioritizes mental health. Receiving this scholarship would allow me to further my education and continue my work to ensure that mental health care is accessible to all.

Struggling with Fortitude Mental health has been a defining factor in my life, shaping my beliefs, relationships, and career aspirations. For over six years, I served as an addiction treatment and mental health wellness advocate at various facilities in Calabasas, Malibu, and within Ventura County. This work deepened my understanding of mental health’s complexities and reinforced my passion for supporting those in need. My experience with mental health spans personal struggles, family dynamics, the loss of close friends, and my professional roles and network associations in the field. While I keep the specifics of my family's struggles private, their challenges have instilled in me a deep empathy for others facing similar battles. Witnessing how mental illness can silently permeate every aspect of life has taught me the importance of accessible, compassionate care. Tragically, I’ve lost many friends to the very struggles I now dedicate my life to addressing—trauma, addiction, borderline personality disorder (BPD), anxiety, depression, and schizophrenia. These were people who, despite the love and support available to them, found it nearly impossible to convey the depth of their pain or accept the help offered. Their loss underscores the critical need for mental health professionals who can break through the barriers of stigma, fear, and misunderstanding that prevent people from seeking or accepting help. These experiences have profoundly shaped my beliefs about mental health. I am convinced that no one should suffer in silence and that, with the right support and resources, recovery and wellness are within reach for everyone. My work in addiction treatment and mental health advocacy has shown me the transformative power of empathy, understanding, and professional intervention. It has also reinforced my commitment to becoming a mental health professional who can make a tangible difference in the lives of others. In my role as an advocate, I’ve worked closely with individuals facing a range of mental health challenges. I’ve seen firsthand how effective treatment can lead to recovery, but I’ve also seen the devastating consequences when people are unable or unwilling to seek help. These experiences have not only strengthened my resolve but have also provided me with invaluable insights that I will carry forward in my career. As I explore potential career paths aligned with my personality, education, and background, my goal is to continue advocating for mental health awareness and providing direct support to those in need. I hope to specialize in areas such as trauma recovery, addiction treatment, and comprehensive mental health care, working to dismantle the stigma that prevents so many from seeking help. Through my work, I aim to honor the memory of those I’ve lost and to prevent others from experiencing the same fate. My background in mental health has profoundly shaped my beliefs, relationships, and career aspirations. I am committed to making a positive impact on the world by becoming a mental health professional who advocates for wellness and recovery. With the support of this scholarship, I plan to further my education and continue my work, striving to create a society where mental health is prioritized and every individual has the opportunity to heal.

Mental health has profoundly influenced my life, shaping my beliefs, relationships, and career aspirations. For over six years, I have worked as an addiction treatment and mental health wellness advocate across various facilities in Calabasas, Malibu, and Ventura County. This journey has provided me with a deep understanding of mental health’s complexities and reinforced my commitment to supporting those in need. My involvement with mental health extends beyond my professional work. I have faced personal challenges, observed difficulties within my family, and grieved the loss of close friends. While I keep specific family struggles private, these experiences have fostered a profound empathy for others enduring similar battles. The pervasive nature of mental illness has underscored the necessity of compassionate and accessible care. Tragically, I have lost several friends to issues such as trauma, addiction, borderline personality disorder (BPD), anxiety, depression, and schizophrenia. Despite the support available to them, they found it nearly impossible to communicate their pain or accept the help offered. These losses highlight the urgent need for mental health professionals who can break through stigma and misunderstanding, making effective support more accessible. Currently, I am navigating a personal mental health dilemma. I am on a leave of absence from work due to my own health dilemma. Despite my current health challenges, I am determined to continue my education and remain hopeful for my professional development. My recovery journey involves a multi-faceted approach, including behavioral therapy, physician treatment, group outpatient therapy, meditation, yoga, walking, and nutrition. These practices are crucial for my well-being and underscore my commitment to overcoming obstacles while focusing on my recovery. The impact of mental health on my academic and personal life has been significant. It has shaped my career goals and fueled my dedication to making a positive impact in the mental health field. As I explore potential career paths aligned with my personality, education, and background, my objective is to advance mental health awareness and provide direct support to those in need. I plan to specialize in areas such as trauma recovery, addiction treatment, and comprehensive mental health care, with a focus on dismantling the stigma that prevents many from seeking help. My current situation reinforces the importance of the work I aim to do. The challenges I face personally enhance my understanding of the difficulties others encounter, making me more empathetic and determined to advocate for better mental health support. Through my future career, I hope to honor the memory of those I’ve lost and prevent others from experiencing similar pain. With the support of this scholarship, I am eager to further my education and continue my advocacy work. My goal is to contribute to a society where mental health is prioritized, and every individual has the opportunity to heal and thrive. This scholarship will be instrumental in helping me achieve these aspirations and continue my journey toward becoming a mental health professional who makes a tangible difference in the lives of others.

Struggling with Fortitude Mental health has been a defining factor in my life, shaping my beliefs, relationships, and career aspirations. For over six years, I served as an addiction treatment and mental health wellness advocate at various facilities in Calabasas, Malibu, and within Ventura County. This work deepened my understanding of mental health’s complexities and reinforced my passion for supporting those in need. My experience with mental health spans personal struggles, family dynamics, the loss of close friends, and my professional roles and network associations in the field. While I keep the specifics of my family's struggles private, their challenges have instilled in me a deep empathy for others facing similar battles. Witnessing how mental illness can silently permeate every aspect of life has taught me the importance of accessible, compassionate care. Tragically, I’ve lost many friends to the very struggles I now dedicate my life to addressing—trauma, addiction, borderline personality disorder (BPD), anxiety, depression, and schizophrenia. These were people who, despite the love and support available to them, found it nearly impossible to convey the depth of their pain or accept the help offered. Their loss underscores the critical need for mental health professionals who can break through the barriers of stigma, fear, and misunderstanding that prevent people from seeking or accepting help. These experiences have profoundly shaped my beliefs about mental health. I am convinced that no one should suffer in silence and that, with the right support and resources, recovery and wellness are within reach for everyone. My work in addiction treatment and mental health advocacy has shown me the transformative power of empathy, understanding, and professional intervention. It has also reinforced my commitment to becoming a mental health professional who can make a tangible difference in the lives of others. In my role as an advocate, I’ve worked closely with individuals facing a range of mental health challenges. I’ve seen firsthand how effective treatment can lead to recovery, but I’ve also seen the devastating consequences when people are unable or unwilling to seek help. These journeys have not only strengthened my resolve but have also provided me with invaluable insights that I will carry forward in my career. As I complete my education and begin my career, my goal is to continue advocating for mental health awareness and providing direct support to those in need. I hope to specialize in areas such as trauma recovery, addiction treatment, and comprehensive mental health care, working to dismantle the stigma that prevents so many from seeking help. Through my work, I aim to honor the memory of those I’ve lost and to prevent others from experiencing the same fate. My background in mental health has profoundly shaped my beliefs, relationships, and career aspirations. I am committed to making a positive impact on the world by becoming a mental health professional who advocates for wellness and recovery. With the support of this scholarship, I plan to further my education and continue my work, striving to create a society where mental health is prioritized and every individual has the opportunity to heal.