Through my journey in psychology, I hope to create lasting impact by working with children and strengthening the organizations meant to serve them. I’m currently studying psychology at North Carolina Central University with a focus on Industrial-Organizational Psychology. My passion for understanding people and solving problems has led me to this field, where I plan to help improve the systems that directly affect underserved communities, especially nonprofits and youth programs. This summer, I started volunteering with a local nonprofit called GRACED Inc., and it has been one of the most eye-opening experiences of my life. I learned about this opportunity through my school’s Nixon Thorpe Psychology Club, and I was immediately drawn in. I’ve always had a heart for working with children, but this experience has deepened that desire and given me real perspective. GRACED Inc. runs a literacy camp for children whose families are mostly under Section 8 housing. These kids don’t always have the resources or stability that other communities do, but they show up ready to learn, love, and grow and it’s beautiful to witness. We go into their school on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays to help them learn how to read and build confidence. From day one, I’ve looked forward to every session. One of the kids who has touched my heart is Elias. He is incredibly smart, respectful, and kind, and he absolutely loves to read. He and his siblings, there are about ten of them, are some of the sweetest children I’ve ever met. Despite their circumstances, they’re joyful, compassionate, and deeply connected as a family. Every time they run up to me smiling and say, “Hi, Miss Jade,” it reminds me why I’m doing this work. I want them to get used to seeing my face because I’m not going anywhere. I want to be that consistent person they know they can count on. This experience also opened my eyes to the need for better structure and accountability in youth-serving spaces. I’ve seen situations where people working in these environments lack the passion and responsibility required to protect and nurture children. That’s where my I-O psychology path comes in, I want to help organizations hire and train people who care, who show up, and who bring purpose into their work. One day, I plan to open a firm that helps nonprofits and service-based organizations build strong, people-centered systems from the inside out. Lastly, I give all glory to God. I wouldn’t be where I am without Him. He brings me peace, clarity, and strength even when life feels overwhelming. I pray that the kids I work with see Him in me--not because of what I say, but because of how I love, serve, and show up. Everything I do is rooted in that calling.