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Jezralyn Ducusin

845

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Bio

Hello, my name is Jezralyn and I am a junior at Grand Canyon University majoring in psychology with a minor in social work. During my years as an undergraduate student, I have worked at two restaurants as a cook and foodrunner; one during my time as a full-time student at GCU and the other back at home during my summer breaks. Through these experiences, I have strengthened my skills of time management, professionalism, communication, and steadiness in fast-paced environments. I have also worked as a buddy for Lopes Academy, a program at GCU dedicated to providing career development skills for neurodiverse individuals. My role as a buddy is to help promote independence and provide a welcoming environment in which neurodiverse individuals have the opportunity to experience campus life, something that may not be offered at other universities. As a first-generation, Filipino-American student who has grown up in a poor community, I know firsthand the mental and emotional challenges experienced by children and families that may occur on a day-to-day basis. As such, I have dedicated my education in psychology in the hope to one day impact the lives of individuals, advocate for awareness and education on mental health, increase the accessibility for mental health services, and promote programs for early intervention and prevention.

Education

Grand Canyon University

Bachelor's degree program
2021 - 2025
  • Majors:
    • Psychology, General
  • Minors:
    • Social Work

Waipahu High School

High School
2017 - 2021

Miscellaneous

  • Desired degree level:

    Bachelor's degree program

  • Graduate schools of interest:

  • Transfer schools of interest:

  • Majors of interest:

    • Clinical Psychology
    • Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology, Other
  • Not planning to go to medical school
  • Career

    • Dream career field:

      Psychology

    • Dream career goals:

      Clinical Psychologist

    • Cook/Server

      Streats Of Aloha
      2019 – Present5 years
    • Food Runner

      Havoc House
      2023 – Present1 year

    Future Interests

    Advocacy

    Volunteering

    FAR Impact Scholarship
    For as long as I can remember, I have always supported my family around the house, supported my friends as they overcame their emotional challenges, and spread positivity towards every person I meet. My inclination towards offering a compassionate ear and guidance has been unwavering and extends openly to peers, friends, and family. In my interactions, I've strived to create a safe, empathetic, and nurturing environment where individuals feel validated, understood, and empowered in their journey through challenges. This innate desire to help others become a passion that I carry in my day-to-day life and is an integral part of my identity. One of the many ways I have made an impact on the lives of others is through a program at my school. I currently work in a leadership position at my university designed to help neurodiverse individuals develop independence and gain a stereotypical college experience that may not be available at other universities. Neurodiverse disabilities can be one of the most misunderstood disorders, and one of the many challenges is not being able to achieve higher education or career opportunities. As such, this position is important for this vulnerable community as it helps break down barriers and opens more opportunities to allow neurodiverse individuals to flourish through adulthood. My career goals are deeply intertwined with my commitment to service, mental health, and personal passions. I have decided to pursue my studies in psychology in hopes of one day becoming a clinical child psychologist because I believe that everyone deserves to be supported no matter the challenges they may experience. While mental health already holds negative stigmas and misunderstood interpretations, this implication is worse for children who may not have the autonomy or understanding to advocate and create change for themselves. Additionally, there is a huge disparity in mental health services, creating even more negative implications on accessibility for this population. As such, I intend to work in this field to directly impact the lives of children, as well as advocate for awareness on such issues, increase the accessibility of mental health services, and promote programs for early intervention and prevention. As such, I have dedicated my time in college to learning and developing skills so that one day I can be supporting the population in developing a healthier, happier, and more fulfilling life. I envision myself playing a pivotal role in expanding access to mental health services and improving the well-being of all individuals regardless of their socioeconomic status or background. Overall, my journey as an undergraduate psychology student deeply reflects my identity and my personal goals. Through my dedication to pursuing an education and career in this field, I hope to one day create meaningful change in the lives of children throughout my community and foster a culture where mental health is understood and prioritized.