Attending college is a transformative experience marked by new friendships, academic challenges, and personal growth. However, when one's roommate struggles with borderline personality disorder (BPD), the journey becomes fraught with unforeseen obstacles. In this essay, I will delve into the profound impact of my freshman-year roommate's constant mental breakdowns and self-harming behaviors on my own mental health and academic performance. Living with a roommate suffering from borderline personality disorder meant enduring volatile emotional states on a daily basis. Their emotional rollercoaster, characterized by intense mood swings and fear of abandonment, was deeply distressing. Witnessing their frequent outbursts and destructiveness took an immense toll on my own emotional stability. The unpredictable nature of their behavior heightened this sense of distress, leaving me vulnerable to anxiety and stress. As the burden of my roommate's mental state weighed heavily on me, my ability to focus on my academic responsibilities significantly dwindled. Studying became arduous, concentration elusive, and my grades began to suffer. The constant presence of anxiety drained my energy and sapped my motivation. Rather than thriving in the intellectually stimulating college environment, I found myself barely treading water, struggling to maintain satisfactory performance across various courses. The impact of my roommate's self-harming behaviors on my mental health cannot be overlooked. Witnessing someone you care about intentionally inflict harm upon themselves is harrowing. Their acts of self-destruction, whether triggered by irrational thoughts or overwhelming emotions, perpetuated a cycle of distress and deterioration of my own mental well-being. These traumatic experiences left me feeling helpless and uncertain about the future, fueling my own anxiety and negatively affecting my ability to function optimally. Seeking support from college counseling services became crucial in managing the psychological fallout caused by my roommate's struggles. Engaging in therapy allowed me to gain valuable coping mechanisms, build resilience, and find solace in the understanding of mental health professionals. It was through these sessions that I learned to prioritize self-care, implement stress reduction techniques, and develop healthy boundaries in my relationship with my roommate. Such interventions, although indispensable, did not resolve the inherent challenges posed by residing with someone experiencing BPD. In conclusion, my freshman-year roommate's borderline personality disorder significantly impacted my college experience, causing my mental health to suffer and my grades to decline. The relentless exposure to their constant mental breakdowns and self-harming behaviors fostered an environment of anxiety and distress. Nonetheless, seeking professional help provided the necessary tools to navigate this challenging situation. While my roommate's struggles were undoubtedly taxing, the experience reaffirmed the importance of mental health support and resilience in navigating the trials of college life. By actively addressing and managing the impact of my roommate's condition, I took decisive steps toward reclaiming control over my academic journey and personal well-being.

As a young child, I struggled with reading and literacy. I vividly remember the frustration and embarrassment I felt when I couldn't keep up with my peers in elementary school. It seemed like everyone around me was effortlessly decoding words and immersing themselves in captivating stories, while I struggled to string together even the simplest sentences. This struggle persisted until I reached middle school, where I found myself reading at a second-grade level. It was a disheartening realization, and I felt like I was falling further behind with each passing day. One individual who played a pivotal role in my journey to literacy was my middle school reading teacher, Mrs. Pierre. Her unwavering dedication and support were instrumental in helping me overcome my reading difficulties and cultivating a love for reading that continues to shape my life today. Mrs. Pierre's personalized approach and genuine care for her students created a safe and nurturing environment where I felt empowered to confront my challenges and strive for improvement. Mrs. Pierre recognized my struggles with reading and immediately took me under her wing. She understood that each student learns differently and tailored her teaching methods to accommodate my specific needs. She patiently worked with me one-on-one, using a variety of techniques and resources to enhance my reading skills. From phonics-based exercises to engaging reading materials that piqued my interest, Mrs. Pierre went above and beyond to ensure that I received the individualized attention I needed to progress. One of the most impactful aspects of Mrs. Pierre's approach was her ability to instill confidence in me. She consistently offered words of encouragement and praise, celebrating even the smallest victories along the way. This positive reinforcement was instrumental in reshaping my perception of reading from a daunting challenge to an achievable goal. Mrs. Pierre's unwavering belief in my potential gave me the courage to persevere through the difficulties and setbacks that inevitably arose on my journey to literacy. In addition to her personalized instruction, Mrs. Pierre also fostered a sense of community within the classroom. She created a supportive and inclusive atmosphere where students felt comfortable sharing their struggles and triumphs. This sense of camaraderie not only encouraged me to seek help when needed but also allowed me to learn from my peers and their unique approaches to reading. Mrs. Pierre's emphasis on collaboration and mutual support enriched the learning experience and reinforced the idea that we were all in this together. Thanks to her I got so good at reading that I was put in advanced language arts from 8th grade all the way until 12th grade.

Growing up in a diverse and inclusive community, I have been fortunate to witness the struggles and triumphs of individuals from various backgrounds. As a member of the LGBTQ community myself, I have personally experienced the challenges and discrimination that many LGBTQ youth face daily. This has instilled in me a deep empathy and understanding for the unique mental health needs of LGBTQ individuals. Additionally, I have witnessed the devastating impact of drug addiction on close friends and family members, further fueling my passion to address these issues through the field of therapy. My academic journey has been characterized by a relentless pursuit of knowledge and a commitment to understanding the complexities of mental health and addiction. I have pursued a rigorous course of study in psychology, sociology, and community service work, seeking to gain a comprehensive understanding of the factors that contribute to drug addiction and the specific challenges faced by LGBTQ youth. Through coursework, research projects, and working at a family resource center, I have honed my advocacy for marginalized communities. As I look to the future, I envision myself as a dedicated and compassionate therapist, working tirelessly to support individuals struggling with drug addiction and the unique mental health needs of LGBTQ youth. I aspire to create a safe and affirming space where clients can explore their identities, confront their challenges, and embark on a journey of healing and self-discovery. I am committed to staying abreast of the latest research and best practices in the field, and I am eager to collaborate with other professionals to advocate for the rights and well-being of my clients. In my future practice, I plan to employ evidence-based therapeutic approaches to address drug addiction, recognizing that each individual's journey to recovery is unique. I will draw upon cognitive-behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and trauma-informed care to help clients navigate the complexities of addiction and develop coping strategies for relapse prevention. Additionally, I am committed to fostering a non-judgmental and supportive environment where clients feel empowered to seek help and confront the underlying issues driving their substance abuse. In working with LGBTQ youth, I will aim to provide affirming and culturally competent therapy that acknowledges the intersectionality of their identities. I will strive to create a space where clients feel validated and understood, addressing the challenges of coming out, navigating family dynamics, and coping with societal stigma. Moreover, I am dedicated to advocating for LGBTQ-inclusive policies and resources within the mental health system, recognizing the importance of creating affirming spaces for all individuals, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. In conclusion, my desire to become a therapist specializing in drug addiction and LGBTQ youth is rooted in a deep sense of empathy, a rigorous academic foundation, and a commitment to social justice. I am driven by the belief that every individual deserves access to affirming and effective mental health care, and I am eager to embark on a career dedicated to this noble pursuit. As I continue on this path, I am filled with hope and determination, knowing that I have found my calling in advocating for the well-being of those who have been marginalized and underserved.

Growing up in a diverse and inclusive community, I have been fortunate to witness the struggles and triumphs of individuals from various backgrounds. As a member of the LGBTQ community myself, I have personally experienced the challenges and discrimination that many LGBTQ youth face daily. This has instilled in me a deep empathy and understanding for the unique mental health needs of LGBTQ individuals. Additionally, I have witnessed the devastating impact of drug addiction on close friends and family members, further fueling my passion to address these issues through the field of therapy. My academic journey has been characterized by a relentless pursuit of knowledge and a commitment to understanding the complexities of mental health and addiction. I have pursued a rigorous course of study in psychology, sociology, and community service work, seeking to gain a comprehensive understanding of the factors that contribute to drug addiction and the specific challenges faced by LGBTQ youth. Through coursework, research projects, and working at a family resource center, I have honed my advocacy for marginalized communities. As I look to the future, I envision myself as a dedicated and compassionate therapist, working tirelessly to support individuals struggling with drug addiction and the unique mental health needs of LGBTQ youth. I aspire to create a safe and affirming space where clients can explore their identities, confront their challenges, and embark on a journey of healing and self-discovery. I am committed to staying abreast of the latest research and best practices in the field, and I am eager to collaborate with other professionals to advocate for the rights and well-being of my clients. In my future practice, I plan to employ evidence-based therapeutic approaches to address drug addiction, recognizing that each individual's journey to recovery is unique. I will draw upon cognitive-behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and trauma-informed care to help clients navigate the complexities of addiction and develop coping strategies for relapse prevention. Additionally, I am committed to fostering a non-judgmental and supportive environment where clients feel empowered to seek help and confront the underlying issues driving their substance abuse. In working with LGBTQ youth, I will aim to provide affirming and culturally competent therapy that acknowledges the intersectionality of their identities. I will strive to create a space where clients feel validated and understood, addressing the challenges of coming out, navigating family dynamics, and coping with societal stigma. Moreover, I am dedicated to advocating for LGBTQ-inclusive policies and resources within the mental health system, recognizing the importance of creating affirming spaces for all individuals, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. In conclusion, my desire to become a therapist specializing in drug addiction and LGBTQ youth is rooted in a deep sense of empathy, a rigorous academic foundation, and a commitment to social justice. I am driven by the belief that every individual deserves access to affirming and effective mental health care, and I am eager to embark on a career dedicated to this noble pursuit. As I continue on this path, I am filled with hope and determination, knowing that I have found my calling in advocating for the well-being of those who have been marginalized and underserved.

In college, I have gained a wealth of new insights about myself, and one of the most profound discoveries has been my understanding of my asexuality. After coming out to my mother, I encountered a response that, while not entirely hurtful, was dismissive and displayed a refusal to acknowledge my identity. This experience was quite painful, yet it catalyzed a profound realization. It prompted me to recognize that numerous young individuals within the LGBTQ community endure significantly more distressing circumstances than mine. As a result, I am committed to extending my support to help them navigate the traumatic experience of rejection by those from whom they ought to receive unconditional love and acceptance. In my first year at university, I pursued a major in exercise science to make a positive impact and aid others, but I was uncertain about the specific path I wanted to take to achieve this goal. My freshman-year roommate faced significant challenges; having been adopted by a Catholic family with a limited understanding of mental health, their journey was further complicated by their identity as a bisexual individual. Throughout that year, my roommate experienced several severe mental breakdowns, and the impact of their struggles began to affect my own well-being and academic performance, ultimately leading to a decline in my grades. After the initial semester, they attempted to end their own life, and I truly desired for them to have received assistance at an earlier stage in life, which would have facilitated their successful adjustment to college life. Unfortunately, they ultimately withdrew from their studies due to the significant impediment that their compromised mental well-being posed on their ability to sustain their academic commitments. There are a number of people whom I am familiar with who are also members of the community, and it is emotionally draining for them to have to conceal a significant part of their identity from their loved ones. In addition to identifying as an asexual, there is one other person in my circle of friends who comes from a strongly religious family. Therefore, it was decided that she would keep this aspect of her personality hidden for as long as possible. The asexual pride ring she obtained, however, was proof that she chose to express her unique identity by being openly asexual. In the event that her mother became aware of the significance of the ring, rather than offering support, she chose to punish and scold her daughter, labeling her an unnatural person. There was more than one occasion on which she revealed her true self to her family, the first one being when they intervened by arranging therapy with a view to 'correcting' her by prescribing hormones so that she could live a normal life. She was deeply affected by this change in family dynamics, which negatively affected her self-confidence. As a result, she stated that her therapist played a pivotal role in helping her recognize and affirm that she was not abnormal or devalued as an asexual person and that her identity was not invalid. I aspire to play a key role in providing a haven for other young people when the environment in their families is not supportive of them.

n college, I have gained a wealth of new insights about myself, and one of the most profound discoveries has been my understanding of my asexuality. After coming out to my mother, I encountered a response that, while not entirely hurtful, was dismissive and displayed a refusal to acknowledge my identity. This experience was quite painful, yet it catalyzed a profound realization. It prompted me to recognize that numerous young individuals within the LGBTQ community endure significantly more distressing circumstances than mine. As a result, I am committed to extending my support to help them navigate the traumatic experience of rejection by those from whom they ought to receive unconditional love and acceptance. In my first year at university, I pursued a major in exercise science to make a positive impact and aid others, but I was uncertain about the specific path I wanted to take to achieve this goal. My freshman-year roommate faced significant challenges; having been adopted by a Catholic family with a limited understanding of mental health, their journey was further complicated by their identity as a bisexual individual. Throughout that year, my roommate experienced several severe mental breakdowns, and the impact of their struggles began to affect my own well-being and academic performance, ultimately leading to a decline in my grades. After the initial semester, they attempted to end their own life, and I truly desired for them to have received assistance at an earlier stage in life, which would have facilitated their successful adjustment to college life. Unfortunately, they ultimately withdrew from their studies due to the significant impediment that their compromised mental well-being posed on their ability to sustain their academic commitments. Many of my acquaintances also belong to the community, and it is emotionally taxing for them to conceal a significant part of their identities from their families. One individual in my social circle also identifies as asexual and hails from a highly religious family. Consequently, she chose to keep this aspect of herself hidden. However, she decided to express her identity by acquiring an asexual pride ring. When her mother discovered the significance of the ring, rather than offering support, she chose to berate her daughter and label her as unnatural. That wasn’t the sole occasion on which she revealed her true self to her family, the initial instance being when they intervened by arranging therapy and attempting to have her prescribed hormones to 'correct' her. This deeply impacted her confidence in her family dynamics. However, she expressed that her therapist played a pivotal role in helping her recognize that her identity is not abnormal or devalued, affirming the validity of her asexuality. Providing a haven for other young individuals when their family environments are not supportive is the role I aspire to fulfill.

n college, I have gained a wealth of new insights about myself, and one of the most profound discoveries has been my understanding of my asexuality. After coming out to my mother, I encountered a response that, while not entirely hurtful, was dismissive and displayed a refusal to acknowledge my identity. This experience was quite painful, yet it catalyzed a profound realization. It prompted me to recognize that numerous young individuals within the LGBTQ community endure significantly more distressing circumstances than mine. As a result, I am committed to extending my support to help them navigate the traumatic experience of rejection by those from whom they ought to receive unconditional love and acceptance. In my first year at university, I pursued a major in exercise science to make a positive impact and aid others, but I was uncertain about the specific path I wanted to take to achieve this goal. My freshman-year roommate faced significant challenges; having been adopted by a Catholic family with a limited understanding of mental health, their journey was further complicated by their identity as a bisexual individual. Throughout that year, my roommate experienced several severe mental breakdowns, and the impact of their struggles began to affect my own well-being and academic performance, ultimately leading to a decline in my grades. After the initial semester, they attempted to end their own life, and I truly desired for them to have received assistance at an earlier stage in life, which would have facilitated their successful adjustment to college life. Unfortunately, they ultimately withdrew from their studies due to the significant impediment that their compromised mental well-being posed on their ability to sustain their academic commitments. Many of my acquaintances also belong to the community, and it is emotionally taxing for them to conceal a significant part of their identities from their families. One individual in my social circle also identifies as asexual and hails from a highly religious family. Consequently, she chose to keep this aspect of herself hidden. However, she decided to express her identity by acquiring an asexual pride ring. When her mother discovered the significance of the ring, rather than offering support, she chose to berate her daughter and label her as unnatural. That wasn’t the sole occasion on which she revealed her true self to her family, the initial instance being when they intervened by arranging therapy and attempting to have her prescribed hormones to 'correct' her. This deeply impacted her confidence in her family dynamics. However, she expressed that her therapist played a pivotal role in helping her recognize that her identity is not abnormal or devalued, affirming the validity of her asexuality. Providing a haven for other young individuals when their family environments are not supportive is the role I aspire to fulfill.

n college, I have gained a wealth of new insights about myself, and one of the most profound discoveries has been my understanding of my asexuality. After coming out to my mother, I encountered a response that, while not entirely hurtful, was dismissive and displayed a refusal to acknowledge my identity. This experience was quite painful, yet it catalyzed a profound realization. It prompted me to recognize that numerous young individuals within the LGBTQ community endure significantly more distressing circumstances than mine. As a result, I am committed to extending my support to help them navigate the traumatic experience of rejection by those from whom they ought to receive unconditional love and acceptance. In my first year at university, I pursued a major in exercise science to make a positive impact and aid others, but I was uncertain about the specific path I wanted to take to achieve this goal. My freshman-year roommate faced significant challenges; having been adopted by a Catholic family with a limited understanding of mental health, their journey was further complicated by their identity as a bisexual individual. Throughout that year, my roommate experienced several severe mental breakdowns, and the impact of their struggles began to affect my own well-being and academic performance, ultimately leading to a decline in my grades. After the initial semester, they attempted to end their own life, and I truly desired for them to have received assistance at an earlier stage in life, which would have facilitated their successful adjustment to college life. Unfortunately, they ultimately withdrew from their studies due to the significant impediment that their compromised mental well-being posed on their ability to sustain their academic commitments. Many of my acquaintances also belong to the community, and it is emotionally taxing for them to conceal a significant part of their identities from their families. One individual in my social circle also identifies as asexual and hails from a highly religious family. Consequently, she chose to keep this aspect of herself hidden. However, she decided to express her identity by acquiring an asexual pride ring. When her mother discovered the significance of the ring, rather than offering support, she chose to berate her daughter and label her as unnatural. That wasn’t the sole occasion on which she revealed her true self to her family, the initial instance being when they intervened by arranging therapy and attempting to have her prescribed hormones to 'correct' her. This deeply impacted her confidence in her family dynamics. However, she expressed that her therapist played a pivotal role in helping her recognize that her identity is not abnormal or devalued, affirming the validity of her asexuality. Providing a haven for other young individuals when their family environments are not supportive is the role I aspire to fulfill.

Growing up in a diverse and inclusive community, I have been fortunate to witness the struggles and triumphs of individuals from various backgrounds. As a member of the LGBTQ community myself, I have personally experienced the challenges and discrimination that many LGBTQ youth face on a daily basis. This has instilled in me a deep empathy and understanding for the unique mental health needs of LGBTQ individuals. Additionally, I have witnessed the devastating impact of drug addiction on close friends and family members, further fueling my passion to address these issues through the field of therapy. As I look to the future, I envision myself as a dedicated and compassionate therapist, working tirelessly to support individuals struggling with drug addiction and the unique mental health needs of LGBTQ youth. I aspire to create a safe and affirming space where clients can explore their identities, confront their challenges, and embark on a journey of healing and self-discovery. I am committed to staying abreast of the latest research and best practices in the field, and I am eager to collaborate with other professionals to advocate for the rights and well-being of my clients. In working with LGBTQ youth, I will aim to provide affirming and culturally competent therapy that acknowledges the intersectionality of their identities. I will strive to create a space where clients feel validated and understood, addressing the challenges of coming out, navigating family dynamics, and coping with societal stigma. Moreover, I am dedicated to advocating for LGBTQ-inclusive policies and resources within the mental health system, recognizing the importance of creating affirming spaces for all individuals, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. Central to my approach as a therapist will be a commitment to intersectionality and social justice. I recognize that the experiences of drug addiction and LGBTQ identity are deeply intertwined with broader systems of oppression and inequality. I will actively work to address the social determinants of mental health, advocating for policies that dismantle systemic barriers and promote equity for marginalized communities. Moreover, I will engage in ongoing self-reflection and education to ensure that my practice remains culturally responsive and attuned to the diverse needs of my clients. In conclusion, my desire to become a therapist specializing in drug addiction and LGBTQ youth is rooted in a deep sense of empathy, a rigorous academic foundation, and a commitment to social justice. I am driven by the belief that every individual deserves access to affirming and effective mental health care, and I am eager to embark on a career dedicated to this noble pursuit. As I continue on this path, I am filled with hope and determination, knowing that I have found my calling in advocating for the well-being of those who have been marginalized and underserved.

Growing up in a diverse and inclusive community, I have been fortunate to witness the struggles and triumphs of individuals from various backgrounds. As a member of the LGBTQ community myself, I have personally experienced the challenges and discrimination that many LGBTQ youth face daily. This has instilled in me a deep empathy and understanding for the unique mental health needs of LGBTQ individuals. Additionally, I have witnessed the devastating impact of drug addiction on close friends and family members, further fueling my passion to address these issues through the field of therapy. My academic journey has been characterized by a relentless pursuit of knowledge and a commitment to understanding the complexities of mental health and addiction. I have pursued a rigorous course of study in psychology, sociology, and community service work, seeking to gain a comprehensive understanding of the factors that contribute to drug addiction and the specific challenges faced by LGBTQ youth. Through coursework, research projects, and working at a family resource center, I have honed my advocacy for marginalized communities. As I look to the future, I envision myself as a dedicated and compassionate therapist, working tirelessly to support individuals struggling with drug addiction and the unique mental health needs of LGBTQ youth. I aspire to create a safe and affirming space where clients can explore their identities, confront their challenges, and embark on a journey of healing and self-discovery. I am committed to staying abreast of the latest research and best practices in the field, and I am eager to collaborate with other professionals to advocate for the rights and well-being of my clients. In my future practice, I plan to employ evidence-based therapeutic approaches to address drug addiction, recognizing that each individual's journey to recovery is unique. I will draw upon cognitive-behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and trauma-informed care to help clients navigate the complexities of addiction and develop coping strategies for relapse prevention. Additionally, I am committed to fostering a non-judgmental and supportive environment where clients feel empowered to seek help and confront the underlying issues driving their substance abuse. In working with LGBTQ youth, I will aim to provide affirming and culturally competent therapy that acknowledges the intersectionality of their identities. I will strive to create a space where clients feel validated and understood, addressing the challenges of coming out, navigating family dynamics, and coping with societal stigma. Moreover, I am dedicated to advocating for LGBTQ-inclusive policies and resources within the mental health system, recognizing the importance of creating affirming spaces for all individuals, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. In conclusion, my desire to become a therapist specializing in drug addiction and LGBTQ youth is rooted in a deep sense of empathy, a rigorous academic foundation, and a commitment to social justice. I am driven by the belief that every individual deserves access to affirming and effective mental health care, and I am eager to embark on a career dedicated to this noble pursuit. As I continue on this path, I am filled with hope and determination, knowing that I have found my calling in advocating for the well-being of those who have been marginalized and underserved.

Growing up, I witnessed the devastating impact of addiction on my family as my beloved aunt battled with her addiction to heroin and various other drugs. Her struggle was a constant source of pain and heartbreak for all of us. Despite our best efforts to support her, the grip of addiction proved to be stronger than any intervention we could offer. This experience had a profound effect on me and played a significant role in shaping my decision to become a therapist. Witnessing firsthand the destructive power that substance abuse can have on an individual's life ignited within me a deep desire to help others battling similar demons. Through my aunt's journey, I learned the importance of providing compassionate understanding and nonjudgmental support to individuals grappling with addiction. The stigma surrounding addiction only compounds the challenges faced by those seeking recovery, further isolating them from the help they desperately need. My personal experience with my aunt's battle has fueled my passion for becoming a therapist who can offer empathy, guidance, and evidence-based interventions to those struggling with substance abuse disorders. It is my hope that by sharing her story and using it as inspiration, I can make a meaningful difference in the lives of others facing similar battles. By studying psychology and pursuing a career in therapy, I aim to contribute towards breaking down societal barriers associated with addiction and promoting more compassionate approaches towards treatment. My ultimate goal is to empower individuals like my aunt to reclaim their lives from the clutches of addiction, offering them hope for brighter futures. The journey towards becoming a therapist may not erase the pain caused by my aunt's battle with drugs, but it allows me to transform that pain into purpose. Through understanding and empathy, I aspire to be an advocate for change in the field of addiction treatment - one person at a time. As I continue my journey toward becoming a therapist, one of my primary goals is to extend the support and empathy that I've developed through my personal experiences to other family members who may be battling addiction. I am deeply committed to using my knowledge and skills in therapy to provide compassionate understanding and evidence-based interventions to those within my family who are struggling with substance abuse. I recognize the urgency of reaching out to my family members who may be facing similar battles with addiction. I am aware of the devastating impact that drug addiction can have on a family

In college, I have gained a wealth of new insights about myself, and one of the most profound discoveries has been my understanding of my asexuality. After coming out to my mother, I encountered a response that, while not entirely hurtful, was dismissive and displayed a refusal to acknowledge my identity. This experience was quite painful, yet it catalyzed a profound realization. It prompted me to recognize that numerous young individuals within the LGBTQ community endure significantly more distressing circumstances than mine. As a result, I am committed to extending my support to help them navigate the traumatic experience of rejection by those from whom they ought to receive unconditional love and acceptance. In my first year at university, I pursued a major in exercise science to make a positive impact and aid others, but I was uncertain about the specific path I wanted to take to achieve this goal. My freshman-year roommate faced significant challenges; having been adopted by a Catholic family with a limited understanding of mental health, their journey was further complicated by their identity as a bisexual individual. Throughout that year, my roommate experienced several severe mental breakdowns, and the impact of their struggles began to affect my own well-being and academic performance, ultimately leading to a decline in my grades. After the initial semester, they attempted to end their own life, and I truly desired for them to have received assistance at an earlier stage in life, which would have facilitated their successful adjustment to college life. Unfortunately, they ultimately withdrew from their studies due to the significant impediment that their compromised mental well-being posed on their ability to sustain their academic commitments. Many of my acquaintances also belong to the community, and it is emotionally taxing for them to conceal a significant part of their identities from their families. One individual in my social circle also identifies as asexual and hails from a highly religious family. Consequently, she chose to keep this aspect of herself hidden. However, she decided to express her identity by acquiring an asexual pride ring. When her mother discovered the significance of the ring, rather than offering support, she chose to berate her daughter and label her as unnatural. That wasn’t the sole occasion on which she revealed her true self to her family, the initial instance being when they intervened by arranging therapy and attempting to have her prescribed hormones to 'correct' her. This deeply impacted her confidence in her family dynamics. However, she expressed that her therapist played a pivotal role in helping her recognize that her identity is not abnormal or devalued, affirming the validity of her asexuality. Providing a haven for other young individuals when their family environments are not supportive is the role I aspire to fulfill.