Mental health services can be costly; however, there can be systems in place to make it affordable. Group sessions or classes tackling topics like stress management, anxiety, and depression can be effective. This initiative would be for those with lower incomes seeking alternatives. This allows those who want to understand how to develop better coping and communication strategies. To make a workshop or session like this accessible they could be held in community centers or clinics making it open to the public, and inclusive. This will allow direct access to short-term but available services for those in underprivileged communities. Seeking mental health support is not one size fits all, regardless there are general coping mechanisms many can use to their advantage to reduce some of the stressors in their lives.

My undergraduate experience was different than most; I had to overcome many obstacles to complete my bachelor's degree. My first year of college was not the smoothest transition from high school. Starting at Curry College I was not provided with the resources and guidance needed to navigate this process. I started as a health science major, however, I was assigned to an academic advisor who had a background in music. Many of the questions regarding career paths, academic support, etc were never really answered because the advisor did not have the proper knowledge to assist me. To make matters worse my very first semester in college I was enrolled in 6 courses, 2 of them being science labs. I was beyond overwhelmed with my course load and the amount of complex information I was expected to retain. At that time I did not have the proper study and time management skills and it began to reflect in my grades. After completing my first year of college I decided to transfer to bunker hill community college. This decision truly helped to change the course of my academic career for the better. With the support of my mentor, I began to excel in my studies. I had regained my confidence as a student and in my ability to learn. From there I completed my associate degree at the top of my class and moved on to UMass Boston to receive my bachelor in science, Magna Cum Laude. With more confidence in myself as a student and as a young professional. Although there were some adversities I am grateful for the experience as it taught me the importance of perseverance, patience, and striving for higher education. This has encouraged me to continue my academic career and pursue my master's in public health at one of the top 10 schools in my field. My goal is to improve and advocate for better health literacy in low-income and minority communities. Health equity has been on the rise and I want to push for equal rights for minorities and help to improve their quality of life. I want to work hands-on in the community actively working to create programs to educate low-income communities. My education and all the knowledge I have developed in my college career is a privilege. So many do not have basic level information that could help to improve their health and overall livelihoods. Therefore, I feel it is my responsibility to use what I know and continue to learn to better equip others with the necessary tools to make healthy choices.

As a person of color, I see firsthand how a person's relationship with food can influence their health. Over 30% of the adult obese population in the United States are African American. Many of these individuals are impacted by food insecurity, and living in poverty also limits access to affordable and healthy food choices. I can also attest that a lack of adequate education is one of the determining factors. Generations of minorities are raised eating cultural dishes high in sodium and high-fat contents. This generation's tradition is naturally passed on to younger children who have no choice but to consume these meals. Leading to an unhealthy relationship in children that can onset a plethora of health disparities. Education is one of the most critical ways to develop and maintain a healthy lifestyle. The more information a person has the more tools they possess to improve their quality of life. In 2021 I completed my undergrad and received my Bachelor of Science in exercise and health science. I learned to create fitness plans, understand the determinants of health, identify and alleviate health disparities, and emphasize the importance of exercise and nutrition. All of the knowledge I gained during that time showed how I can improve my diet and physical health. During the pandemic, I converted to a vegetarian diet for over a year. After seeing how much my unhealthy snacking habit had impacted my weight I wanted to make a change. I became more consistent in the gym and cut out dairy products and meat. For substitution, I incorporated more fruits and veggies into the meals prepared. I felt a sense of accomplishment when working out as I implemented the ideas I learned being an exercise and health science major. Although I am no longer a vegetarian, I am more mindful of my intake and try to be as physically active as possible. I've chosen to continue my education and pursue a healthcare career. My goal is to improve and advocate for better health literacy, and health equity, in low-income and minority communities. Equal care should no longer be a debate, it’s time for newer policies and change! By creating initiatives and better access to information regarding nutrition, the determinants of health individuals can increase their quality of life. I recognize the advantage I have with an educational background in healthcare. Therefore, I feel it is my responsibility to use what I know and continue to learn to better equip others with the necessary tools to make healthy choices.

If everyone in the world could read just one book, that book would be The Outsiders by S.E Hinton. I had the opportunity to read this novel in middle school, it has been one of the most memorable books from my adolescence. This coming-of-age book looks at what happens when two very different worlds collide; highlighting the consequences of misjudging others, fighting for what's right, and navigating your youth. The famous words from the novel "Stay Golden'' have always stuck with me. Regardless of the circumstances Ponyboy always tried to remain true to who he was and stand up for what he believed in. Although he was looked down upon because he was a greaser he overcame all stereotypes placed on him. Besides a story that continuously holds your attention, there is so much to learn from the greasers and the socs. For example; during the time this story takes place there is a misconception that all greasers are hoodlums and degenerates. Ponyboy and Johnny risked their own lives to save young children from a burning building. Meanwhile, Cherry was a soc who was as kind and genuine, she was not spoiled or as snobby as many assumed. It's easy to judge others who are different from you; however, throughout the story, we get to see these young teens break societal norms and recreate the standard. The themes in this novel still ring true in today's society and I believe anyone can learn a bit by reading such an influential book.

My future self will be fearless, confident in my abilities, and selfless. I will use my past experiences and skills to uplift and help others in need. My future self will be all that I am currently working towards achieving and more!