My passion for mental health was not born in a classroom; it was shaped by survival. I am a low income African American woman who grew up in and out of motels, strangers’ homes, and the foster care system. I experienced mental, physical, and emotional abuse, and for a long time, I felt invisible. As a child, I didn’t have a therapist who looked like me or understood the trauma I was surviving. I didn’t have words for what I was going through, just silence, confusion, and pain. But from that silence, I’ve found purpose. I’m now a psychology major at Clark Atlanta University, maintaining a 4.0 GPA and dedicating my academic journey to understanding trauma, emotional regulation, and healing. I’m passionate about making mental health care more accessible, trauma informed, and representative, especially for Black and Brown youth who, like me, are often left behind. The current mental health system lacks cultural competency. Many minority communities experience barriers to care due to stigma, mistrust, and lack of representation. We need more therapists, researchers, and advocates of color, people who understand not just the science of the brain but the soul of the struggle. That’s why I’m pursuing a career as a trauma informed therapist and eventually a clinical psychologist. I want to provide counseling and advocacy rooted in compassion and cultural understanding, and I’m committed to creating space in research for voices that have been historically excluded. One of the most defining moments in my journey was losing my cousin BeJon to suicide. He was one of the few people who truly understood me, and his death shattered me. But it also ignited something deeper. I realized that mental illness is not just personal; it’s systemic. It's connected to poverty, racism, housing insecurity, and cycles of trauma. His passing made me promise myself that I would spend my life doing work that saves others like him. Through my involvement with Cross Eyed Ministries, Women of CAU, and volunteering at events like TI's annual turkey drive, I’ve seen how community engagement can bring healing. I’ve also created my own food giveaway and volunteered at Pomona Valley Hospital Medical Center to give back in tangible ways. These experiences taught me the power of showing up for people, and I plan to bring that same energy into mental health spaces. Representation isn’t optional; it’s essential. That’s why I want to specialize in trauma care for marginalized communities and one day open a mental health center that hires culturally diverse staff, offers free services for youth in crisis, and uses both traditional and holistic approaches. I also plan to conduct research that centers the voices of Black and Brown youth affected by trauma and advocate for their needs in policy reform and clinical trials. This scholarship would not just support my education; it would help me continue my mission. I’m not just trying to get a degree. I’m trying to change the narrative. From once feeling like I’d never be more than a statistic, I now believe I was born to be a leader in mental health advocacy. By uplifting students like me, students who carry both pain and purpose, you’re investing in a future where mental health care is equitable, inclusive, and truly transformative. I’m ready to be that change. All I need is the chance to keep going.

Intimate partner violence (IPV) is a serious problem that affects many people, especially in communities where there are fewer resources and support systems. I believe education is one of the best ways to help stop intimate partner violence. It can teach people about healthy relationships, help them understand what abuse looks like, and give them the tools they need to protect themselves and others. I know this from personal experience. I grew up in a home where I saw my mother in abusive relationships. The men she was with would hurt her emotionally and physically. As a child, I didn’t understand everything, but I knew something was wrong. I could feel the fear and sadness in our home. No one ever explained what was going on or talked about abuse. Because of that, it took me a long time to understand what I had witnessed. That is why I believe education is so important. It helps people understand what is happening to them and lets them know they deserve to be treated with respect. Education can help stop intimate partner violence in many ways. First, it can teach young people about healthy relationships. If we start early and talk to students in schools about respect, boundaries, consent, and communication, they will grow up knowing what a good relationship looks like. They will also learn how to spot warning signs of abuse and how to ask for help. Many young people stay in harmful relationships because they think that kind of behavior is normal. Education can change that. Second, education gives people the tools to be independent. A lot of people stay in abusive relationships because they depend on their partner for money or housing. They are scared that if they leave, they won’t survive on their own. But when someone has a good education, they can get a job, make money, and take care of themselves. This makes it easier for them to leave an unsafe relationship and build a better life. Education also helps communities understand intimate partner violence better. When people know more about the problem, they can support each other and speak out against abuse. It helps reduce shame and judgment for those who are suffering. Education also helps people know how to respond when they see someone being hurt. They can step in, offer support, or help connect the person to the right resources. Right now, I am studying psychology because I want to help others who have gone through what I experienced. I want to become a therapist and work with women and young people who have faced domestic violence. I also want to help schools and community programs teach more about emotional health, self-respect, and safety in relationships. These are things everyone needs to know, but too many people never learn them. Education changed my life. It helped me understand my past and gave me hope for the future. It showed me that healing is possible and that I am not alone. That is why I believe education can help reduce intimate partner violence. When people learn, they grow. And when they grow, they can make better choices and create safer lives. This scholarship would help me continue my education so I can reach my goal of helping others. I want to use everything I’ve learned to help stop the cycle of abuse and give people the tools to build strong, healthy lives.

My name is Junia Lampkin, and I am a psychology major at Clark Atlanta University with a passion for healing, community, and transformation. My journey into mental health work is deeply personal. I didn’t learn about mental health in a classroom first. I learned about it by surviving trauma, instability, and silence. I learned about it by watching people I love suffer quietly, and by realizing that pain ignored only grows louder. These experiences didn’t break me. They lit a fire in me to learn, to serve, and to change the way mental health is viewed and treated in marginalized communities, especially among African American women and youth. I was raised in an environment where mental illness, addiction, and emotional pain were present but never talked about. My mother struggled with drug addiction, and for most of my childhood, we were homeless. We moved from one abandoned home to another, often staying with different men in unsafe conditions. I watched her pass out from drug use. I remember being hungry for days, wearing the same clothes, and missing school. I was exposed to trauma at an age when I didn’t even have the words to describe what was happening. Yet through all of that, I stayed curious, eager to learn, and deeply aware that something had to change. What hurt me most was not just what we went through but how invisible it all felt. No one checked in. No therapist showed up. No system caught us. I began to realize how easy it is for Black families, especially women and children, to fall through the cracks. That awareness shaped my beliefs and activism. I believe mental health is a right, not a privilege. I believe culturally competent care should not be rare. I believe healing is possible, and that it must be made accessible in the neighborhoods and homes where it is needed most. That is why I plan to become a licensed psychologist specializing in trauma-informed care and family therapy, with a focus on serving marginalized Black communities. My long-term goal is to open a mental health and wellness center specifically designed for African American women and children affected by trauma, addiction, and generational cycles of abuse. I want this space to be more than a clinic. I want it to be a sanctuary for emotional healing, education, and empowerment. I want to offer sliding scale services, community workshops, youth mentorship programs, and mobile counseling units that can serve those who can't come to us. My lived experience has taught me that we need more Black therapists who understand our stories, our culture, and our pain. Representation in the field matters. Trust matters. Too often, mental health services are not designed with marginalized people in mind. I want to change that. I want to be part of a movement that redefines what mental health care looks like in under-resourced communities, starting with my own. Higher education has given me the tools to understand the science behind the pain I’ve lived. It has taught me how to apply theory to action and experience to advocacy. But my vision goes beyond a classroom. I plan to use my degrees to bring real change to people who are often left out of the conversation. This scholarship would help me continue that journey, not as a student, but as a future healer, advocate, and voice for those who have gone unheard for too long. I want my work to say to every woman, child, or family who has ever felt unseen, "You matter. Your healing matters. And your story is not over."

Seeing substance abuse firsthand deeply impacted me, even before I could fully understand what it was. As a child, I didn’t know what addiction meant or how it could destroy a person from the inside out. But I lived in the middle of it every single day. My mother was addicted to drugs, and because of her addiction, we were constantly homeless, moving from one abandoned house to another, from one man to the next. We never stayed anywhere for long. We didn’t have stability, safety, or peace. There were times when I found her passed out on the floor, and I had to wait alone for her to wake up. I got into her things, like pipes, needles, and lighters, without knowing what they were. I just knew she was gone even when she was right there. When she did have money, it went straight to drugs, never food. I remember being hungry all the time. She would steal from Walmart just to try and feed me. I wore dirty clothes, missed school, and constantly worried about when the next bad thing would happen. My childhood was filled with chaos, abandonment, and fear. And it wasn’t just the drugs. It was the men. We were always staying with someone new, and some of those men were abusive and violent. I saw things no little girl should ever see. I lost my sense of safety and innocence long before I had the words to describe what was happening. All of this left scars, emotional, mental, and spiritual. As I got older, I began to understand the truth of what I had lived through. I realized my mother was sick, trapped in her addiction, and that the instability and pain I had experienced weren’t normal. I also realized that so many African American women, like my mother and like me, suffer in silence. They are often unheard, overlooked, or blamed. Their trauma is dismissed, and the support they need is either unavailable or inaccessible. That realization lit something in me. That is why I chose to pursue higher education. I am currently studying psychology at Clark Atlanta University, and I plan to continue my education with a graduate degree in clinical psychology. My goal is to become a licensed psychologist who specializes in trauma, addiction recovery, and family systems therapy. I want to work directly with African American women who have lived through substance abuse, domestic violence, and generational trauma, women who have been silenced or shamed, who feel like they have nowhere to turn. But I want to go even further than individual therapy. I want to create community-based programs that improve how care is coordinated across mental health, housing, and addiction recovery services. I want to be a voice in building systems that see Black women fully, not just as patients, but as people with deep histories, pain, and resilience. I plan to advocate for culturally responsive care, train other counselors and social workers, and use my lived experience to develop trauma-informed approaches that make real change. This scholarship would help lift the financial burden off my shoulders so I can stay focused on this mission. I am not just earning a degree. I am reclaiming my story and using it to help others do the same. I want to turn all the pain I’ve experienced into purpose. I want African American women like my mother and like the little girl I used to be to know that healing is possible and that they are not alone.

Continuing my education after graduation is not a goal. It is a necessity. My life experiences have shaped who I am, what I value, and the purpose I believe I was born to fulfill. Education has become my foundation, my safe place, and the tool I plan to use to give back to others who may have walked a similar path to mine. My childhood was far from ideal. I was raised by a mother struggling with drug addiction and bounced from home to home. There were times when I wasn’t enrolled in school, yet I was always eager and hungry to learn. I endured pain no child should experience, including neglect and abuse. Twice, I was placed in foster care. Each placement taught me something different. One showed me what it feels like to be manipulated. Another taught me what it means to be truly loved and cared for. It wasn’t until I was placed under the guardianship of my aunt that I began to experience stability. That was when I began to love myself and fall in love with learning. Education became my escape and my empowerment. It showed me that no matter where I came from, I could go anywhere I wanted in life. While other kids found inspiration during Career Days in school, I never saw a career that truly fit me. Still, I always held onto this inner voice that said, "I was born to serve." That phrase stayed with me for years until I finally realized how I wanted to serve: by helping others heal and grow through the power of mental health support. After doing my own research, sitting in on counseling sessions, and learning more about the psychology field, everything began to make sense. I knew I wanted to be a psychologist not because I had experienced trauma, but because I had also experienced transformation. I knew I could help others make sense of their pain, just as others helped me. My goal is to become a licensed psychologist who works with children and teens, especially those in the foster system or facing traumatic life events. I want to be the person I once needed, the adult who listens, supports, and believes in their healing and potential. That is why continuing my education is not optional for me. It is a life mission. Attending Clark Atlanta University after high school was the best decision I have made, even though paying for tuition has been difficult. But despite financial stress, I have remained committed to my path. I plan to pursue a graduate degree in psychology, and I am also open to specialized certificate programs that focus on trauma-informed care or youth development. My dream is bigger than earning a degree. I want to represent something meaningful in the world. As a young Black woman in STEM, especially in a field where we are underrepresented, I know my presence matters. I want little Black girls to see me and know that they too can become therapists, psychologists, or anything else they dream of. I want to help normalize therapy in communities that have long been overlooked or stigmatized for seeking mental health support. This scholarship would not only ease the financial burden I face but would also bring me one step closer to fulfilling my purpose. I am committed to lifelong learning, serving others, and making a lasting difference in the lives of those who need it most. Education gave me hope when everything else felt hopeless, and now I plan to use it to spread that same hope to others.

From a young age, I knew what it felt like to be unseen, unheard, and misunderstood. I grew up in a world filled with trauma—moving between motels, unsafe homes, and foster care placements. I was exposed to mental, emotional, physical, and sexual abuse. My mother struggled with addiction, and I often found myself in the care of strangers or completely alone. I developed abandonment issues and emotional insecurities, feeling more like a survivor than a child. But even through all of that, I also discovered something powerful: empathy. Those hardships didn’t break me—they built my purpose. I am now pursuing a degree in psychology with a focus on mental health so I can help others feel seen, safe, and supported in ways I never was. I chose this field not only because of what I’ve endured, but because of what I’ve overcome. Every scar tells a story, and mine has taught me that healing is possible with the right support. I want to be that support for others, especially young people who are suffering in silence. Mental health is not just a career path for me; it is my calling. I am passionate about breaking generational cycles of trauma, shame, and silence—especially in underserved and marginalized communities where mental health is often ignored or stigmatized. I believe everyone deserves access to quality mental health care, regardless of their background or income. And I want to be part of the movement that normalizes therapy, emotional expression, and healing in Black and brown communities. Through my education at Clark Atlanta University, where I am currently an upcoming sophomore psychology major, I have gained a strong academic foundation while also being involved in service-based organizations like Women of CAU and Cross Eyed Ministries. I’ve volunteered at community events, including food and turkey giveaways, and I use every opportunity to give back and connect with those who feel forgotten. My late cousin BeJon, who died by suicide, is another reason I’m deeply committed to this path. He was one of the few people who truly understood me, and I carry his memory with me in everything I do. I want to honor his life by dedicating mine to suicide prevention and mental health advocacy. In the future, I plan to become a licensed psychologist and open a trauma-informed community center that offers free and affordable therapy, support groups, workshops, and youth mentorship. I want to create a space where pain is met with compassion and healing is not just encouraged—it’s accessible. I also hope to use my voice to inspire change through public speaking, writing, and mental health awareness campaigns. My story may have started in darkness, but I am committed to being a light for others. Pursuing a degree in the mental health field isn’t just about a diploma—it’s about transforming my pain into purpose. It’s about helping someone choose to stay one more day, believe in themselves again, or feel safe enough to finally speak their truth. I may not be able to save the whole world, but if I can change just one life, it will all be worth it.

When we think of gifted children, we often picture students who excel academically, grasp advanced concepts quickly, and show high intellectual potential. But what is often overlooked are the emotional complexities and mental health challenges that many of these children carry. Being gifted doesn’t mean being immune to trauma, anxiety, depression, or emotional overload—in fact, it can sometimes make those struggles even more intense. As someone who has experienced trauma, battled insecurities, and now studies psychology with the goal of becoming a trauma-informed therapist, I am deeply committed to supporting the social-emotional and intellectual needs of gifted children. Growing up, I didn’t have the structure or support that many students take for granted. I faced a traumatic childhood marked by instability, abuse, abandonment, and loss. I moved through foster homes, motels, and unsafe environments, often left to figure out life on my own. I repeated a grade in school—not because I wasn’t smart, but because trauma had taken such a toll on my emotional and mental state that learning felt impossible at times. I now know that many gifted students also struggle silently in the face of emotional disconnection, high expectations, and misunderstood sensitivities. That’s why I want to be the kind of therapist and advocate who can see beyond a child’s academic abilities and into their emotional world. Currently, I am a upcoming sophomore Psychology major at Clark Atlanta University, building the foundation for a career focused on mental health advocacy, trauma recovery, and community support. I plan to specialize in child and adolescent therapy with an emphasis on underserved and high-potential populations—particularly those navigating giftedness alongside trauma or emotional challenges. My goal is to create programs and safe spaces where gifted children are supported not only intellectually, but also emotionally and socially. One of my long-term goals is to open a mental wellness center that includes therapy services, peer support groups, and creative outlets for children and teens who are navigating complex emotions. I envision this center offering specialized care for gifted children who are often misunderstood, labeled “too sensitive” or “too intense,” and left to navigate their world alone. These children need more than rigorous academics—they need adults who understand asynchronous development, perfectionism, anxiety, and the pressure to always perform at a high level. My experience with trauma gives me unique insight into the emotional lives of children. I’ve learned that gifted children, especially those from underrepresented or disadvantaged backgrounds, are often overlooked in gifted programs or misdiagnosed with behavioral disorders. I want to change that by developing screening tools and therapeutic models that recognize both giftedness and trauma, and treat both with equal care. I want to be the bridge between education and mental health—ensuring that gifted students are not only challenged intellectually, but supported holistically. I also plan to work alongside educators to provide training on how to recognize gifted traits in emotionally complex students. Too often, gifted children are assumed to be “fine” because of their intelligence. But intellect does not erase pain. I want to advocate for classroom environments where students feel emotionally safe, understood, and empowered to explore their talents without fear or burnout. In addition, I am passionate about developing group therapy and enrichment programs tailored to gifted children—especially those who feel isolated by their abilities or internal struggles. I want to help them build healthy relationships, develop coping skills, and explore creative expression as a form of emotional regulation and personal growth. Through guided support and mentorship, I believe gifted children can not only meet their intellectual potential, but thrive as emotionally resilient and socially aware individuals. My personal story—losing my cousin BeJon to suicide, surviving years of trauma, and now dedicating my life to mental health—has taught me that pain has the power to transform into purpose. I plan to use my education, experiences, and future licensure as a therapist to reach children who are often seen as “doing fine” on the surface but are silently hurting inside. Gifted children need more than advanced math problems and higher-level reading assignments—they need empathy, connection, and emotional nourishment. They need to know they are allowed to be brilliant and broken at the same time. And I want to be one of the professionals who not only sees that—but helps them heal, grow, and truly thrive. Through my career in mental health, I will foster both the intellectual growth and emotional well-being of gifted children. Because brilliance should never come at the cost of mental peace—and every child, no matter how advanced, deserves to be whole.

My name is Junia Lampkin, and I’m a rising sophomore Psychology major at Clark Atlanta University. My story is rooted in survival, but my future is grounded in purpose. I was born into circumstances that many don’t make it out of—trauma, instability, foster care, and the impact of generational pain. But instead of letting my past define me, I’ve decided to use it as fuel to make a difference in the lives of others who are hurting and unheard. Growing up, I didn’t have the safety or stability that every child deserves. I was in and out of homes, often left in dangerous environments due to my mother’s addiction. I experienced mental, emotional, physical, and sexual abuse. I repeated a grade in elementary school and for years felt like I wasn’t smart enough to succeed. But through all the darkness, I developed resilience. I found strength in my struggle and began to dream of a future where I could be the person I always needed—someone who listens, understands, and helps others heal. That dream led me to psychology. My passion for mental health was solidified after losing my cousin BeJon to suicide. He was one of the few people who truly understood me, and his death shook me deeply. But it also lit a fire within me to become a voice for the voiceless. I want to make a real, lasting impact on individuals, families, and communities who have been silenced by stigma and weighed down by emotional pain. Through my studies at Clark Atlanta, I’m preparing to become a trauma-informed therapist and eventually open a mental health and wellness center focused on youth, foster children, and those from underserved communities. I believe therapy should be accessible, compassionate, and culturally relevant—especially in communities of color where mental health is often overlooked or misunderstood. I want to create a safe space where healing isn’t just possible—it’s expected. Beyond one-on-one therapy, I also hope to impact the world through advocacy, education, and community outreach. I plan to lead suicide prevention programs, host healing workshops, and mentor young people who feel lost or invisible. I want to speak publicly about the importance of mental health, especially in schools and systems where early intervention could save lives. I’m also interested in integrating technology with therapy to expand access through mental health apps and virtual support groups. My goal is not only to treat trauma but to prevent it—to build stronger support systems before crisis hits. I want to disrupt cycles of generational pain and replace them with cycles of love, understanding, and growth. Every class I take, every paper I write, and every community service event I join brings me one step closer to that vision. Today, I am proud of how far I’ve come. I maintained a 4.0 GPA in high school, took AP and Dual Enrollment classes, and was involved in peer counseling. I now serve with organizations like the volunteer program at Pomona Valley Hospital Medical Center, Women of CAU and Cross Eyed Ministries, and I’ve volunteered at food giveaways and community outreach events. But I know my journey is only beginning. I plan to make a positive impact on the world by turning my pain into purpose, my struggle into strategy, and my story into a source of healing for others. I’m not just pursuing a degree—I’m pursuing a mission. And with the support of this scholarship, I will continue to build a future that brings hope to others who have felt forgotten.

For me, going to college isn’t just about getting a degree—it’s about breaking generational cycles, healing from the past, and building a future rooted in purpose. As someone who grew up in instability, trauma, and uncertainty, college represents more than opportunity. It represents hope. I come from a background where college wasn’t expected or always encouraged. I spent much of my childhood in survival mode—moving between motels, foster homes, and unstable environments. I experienced abandonment, abuse, and emotional neglect. I had to grow up quickly and develop street smarts long before I ever believed I was capable of academic success. I repeated a grade, battled insecurity, and for a while, I thought my dreams were out of reach. But I refused to let my past define my future. Despite the odds, I worked hard in high school, maintained a 4.0 GPA, took AP and Dual Enrollment classes, and found my passion in psychology. I’m now a proud upcoming sophomore at Clark Atlanta University, majoring in Psychology with dreams of becoming a trauma-informed therapist. Going to college is important to me because it is the first step toward changing not just my own life—but the lives of others who’ve experienced pain like mine. I’m not in college just for myself. I’m here for every child who has felt unseen, every teen who has struggled in silence, and every young person who has battled mental health issues without support. I want my degree to mean something beyond a piece of paper—I want it to symbolize transformation, resilience, and impact. From my college experience, I want more than academic knowledge. I want growth—emotionally, intellectually, and spiritually. I want to continue healing from my own trauma while learning how to help others heal too. I want to gain tools and training that will allow me to make mental health support more accessible in underserved communities. I also want to network with professors, peers, and professionals who will challenge and inspire me to reach higher. I want to give back while I learn. That’s why I’m already involved in campus organizations like Women of CAU and Cross Eyed Ministries. I’ve volunteered at food giveaways and served at community events. Service is part of who I am, and I want to use every opportunity in college to build a foundation for the wellness center I plan to open one day—a space for trauma therapy, suicide prevention, and mentorship, especially for youth in foster care or at risk. College is also important to me because it proves that my past doesn’t define my future. I’ve faced more than most people know, but I never gave up. I kept believing in something bigger, something better. And now, I get to walk across a campus every day knowing I am becoming the woman I once prayed I’d live long enough to be. What I want out of college is more than success—I want purpose, community, and the power to help others find light in their darkest moments. I want to leave a legacy of love, resilience, and change. Because college, for me, isn’t just a chapter—it’s the turning point in a story that’s still being written.

Mental health isn’t just a topic I study—it’s a reality I’ve lived through, fought with, and now advocate for. My personal journey with mental health began long before I ever knew what the term meant. I grew up in chaos, bouncing between motels, unstable homes, and unsafe environments. I faced physical, emotional, and sexual abuse. My mother struggled with addiction, and I was often left alone or in the care of strangers. These experiences deeply impacted my sense of safety, self-worth, and trust in others. But over time, they also shaped my beliefs, strengthened my relationships, and revealed my purpose. For a long time, I believed I wasn’t enough. I carried shame from repeating a grade, battled insecurity, and struggled to believe I could ever succeed academically. Mental health was never talked about in my home or community, so I internalized the trauma and blamed myself for things that were never my fault. But as I began to learn more about mental health, I realized the pain I carried wasn’t a reflection of my weakness—it was a response to my environment. That shift in perspective saved me. I stopped seeing myself as broken and started seeing myself as human. This journey has completely transformed my beliefs. I now understand how deeply mental health affects every part of a person’s life—how trauma rewires the brain, how anxiety can silence your voice, and how depression can make even the smallest tasks feel impossible. I believe that healing is not linear and that everyone deserves access to compassionate care. I also believe that emotional strength is just as important as physical strength—and should be honored the same way. My relationships have grown stronger because of this. I’ve learned how to communicate more openly, how to set boundaries, and how to extend grace to others who are also hurting. I no longer feel the need to hide my story. Instead, I use it to connect with others, especially those who feel invisible or misunderstood. Losing my cousin BeJon to suicide only deepened this passion. He was one of the few people who truly understood me, and his passing pushed me to become the voice I wish he had when he needed it most. Now, I’m an upcoming sophomore psychology major at Clark Atlanta University, committed to becoming a trauma-informed therapist. I want to specialize in working with youth, foster children, and underserved communities—people who, like me, were once told to “just be strong” instead of being allowed to heal. I plan to open a wellness center that offers free and affordable therapy, mentorship programs, and suicide prevention resources. I want to break generational cycles of silence and shame by replacing them with understanding and empowerment. My experience with mental health is my “why.” It’s the reason I show up, the reason I study late into the night, and the reason I will never stop fighting for people society often forgets. I know what it feels like to carry pain in silence—but I also know what it feels like to be heard, seen, and understood. I want to be that safe space for others. Because when we heal minds, we change lives. And I’m ready to be part of that change.

Charity is important to me because I’ve lived on the receiving end of it. Growing up in unstable environments—living in motels, staying with strangers, and eventually entering foster care—I know what it’s like to depend on the kindness of others for food, clothes, and even a sense of safety. Charity was not just a helping hand; it was often a lifeline. It taught me that small acts of giving can make a life-changing difference. Today, I give back because I know how much it matters. I’ve volunteered at T.I.’s annual turkey giveaway, helped organize food drives, and served my peers through student ministries and mentorship programs at Clark Atlanta University. Each opportunity is a reminder of how love in action can create real change. As a psychology major, I plan to open a trauma-informed mental health and wellness center for underserved communities. I also want to launch a nonprofit that offers free therapy, workshops, and healing spaces for people affected by trauma, abandonment, and emotional pain. This is how I will give back—not just with resources, but with care, advocacy, and empowerment. Charity isn’t just something I do. It’s something I live by. It’s how I turn my past into purpose and my pain into progress. Giving back is not optional—it’s my calling.

My name is Junia Lampkin, and I am an upcoming sophomore psychology major at Clark Atlanta University. I come from a past marked by instability, trauma, and hardship. Growing up, I moved from place to place, lived in motels, stayed with strangers, and eventually entered foster care due to my mother’s struggle with addiction. I was surrounded by abuse and often left to survive on my own. These experiences shaped me into someone who is not only resilient but deeply passionate about helping others heal from trauma, abandonment, and pain. This scholarship is extremely important to me. I am fully responsible for funding my education, and the financial burden is heavy. Despite maintaining a 4.0 GPA and taking on leadership roles at my university, I am constantly balancing academics, personal growth, and financial stress. Receiving this scholarship would lift a major weight off my shoulders and allow me to focus on what matters most—becoming the change I want to see in my community. Though I’m majoring in psychology, my career goals include entrepreneurship in the mental health field. I plan to open a mental health and wellness center that provides trauma-informed counseling, mentorship programs, and mental health education. My vision is to create a safe, accessible space for underserved youth and families, especially in Black and low-income communities where mental health resources are often limited or overlooked. I also plan to start a nonprofit organization that offers free counseling services and community workshops on emotional wellness, self-development, and financial literacy. I want to create programs that empower people to heal, grow, and dream beyond their circumstances. I believe mental health should never be a luxury, and through my business, I will help make it a right. My passion for giving back is already active through my community service. I volunteer at T.I.'s annual turkey giveaway, helping families receive meals during the holidays. I’ve also organized my own food drives to support those in need. At Clark Atlanta University, I am a member of Women of CAU and Cross Eyed Ministries, where I help support other young women through mentorship and fellowship. Additionally, I’m part of Power to Exhale Los Angeles, a women’s empowerment group that uplifts survivors and advocates for healing and hope. What drives me most is the memory of my cousin BeJon, who died by suicide. He was one of the few people who truly understood me, and losing him broke my heart. But it also gave my life direction. I made a promise to myself that I would turn my pain into purpose. Every person I help, every life I impact, is a way of honoring his memory. I know what it feels like to be unheard and unseen, and I’ve made it my mission to make sure others never have to feel that way. This scholarship will not just help me pay for school. It will be an investment into my dream—a dream that involves healing, hope, and empowerment. With your support, I will build a business that uplifts my community and a life that makes the struggle worth it. Thank you for believing in students like me, who are committed to turning hardship into healing and vision into action.

Although I live thousands of miles away from the frontlines of Russia’s war in Ukraine, its impact has still rippled through my life in significant ways. Watching a country be torn apart by violence, watching families flee with nothing but the clothes on their backs, and seeing children become orphans overnight has not only broken my heart but reminded me of something I know too well: what it means to grow up in instability, to face trauma, and to wonder if you’ll ever feel safe. Like many students, the war has affected me indirectly through rising economic strain. Inflation caused by global instability has made basic necessities more expensive. Gas, groceries, and housing have all become harder for my family to afford. As a college student already facing financial hardship due to my upbringing, these increased costs have made it even harder to afford tuition, supplies, transportation, and food. I come from a background where struggle was a daily reality. I was raised by a mother battling addiction, moving from motel to motel, and spending time in foster care. Financial stability was something I rarely experienced, and the added economic pressure caused by this war has made my path even more challenging. But what has impacted me most on a personal level is the emotional connection I feel when I see families suffering because of something beyond their control. I know what it is like to be forced out of a home. I know what it is like to feel powerless in a world that keeps moving while you are stuck in survival mode. The images and stories from Ukraine—of children clinging to hope, of mothers trying to stay strong for their families, of youth stepping up to protect their communities—have stayed with me. They have pushed me to reflect on how interconnected we all are, even across borders. That is why I am pursuing a degree in psychology at Clark Atlanta University. My goal is to become a licensed psychologist and trauma-informed counselor who works with underserved communities, especially youth of color who, like me, have endured pain in silence. Achieving my educational goals is not just about overcoming my own hardships but about turning those hardships into healing for myself, my community, and even for those affected by global conflicts like the war in Ukraine. We may not be able to stop every war, but we can respond with compassion, service, and action. When I graduate, I plan to create a mental health and wellness center that provides counseling, support, and education for those affected by trauma, whether from childhood, systemic oppression, or the emotional impact of world events. Many immigrants and refugees from Ukraine and other conflict zones resettle in communities like mine. I want to be someone who understands their pain, who can speak to it from experience, and who has the tools to help them heal. This war has reminded me that peace is fragile and freedom is not guaranteed. It has pushed me to value my education even more because with knowledge and degrees comes the power to change lives. Not just mine, but the lives of people trying to rebuild after loss. In a world full of chaos and conflict, I believe my calling is to be a source of stability, empathy, and hope. Earning my degree will be more than an accomplishment. It will be a commitment to using my pain, my purpose, and my passion to serve others, near and far.

The day I lost my cousin BeJon to suicide changed everything. It wasn’t just the pain of losing him. It was the pain of realizing how deeply someone can suffer in silence, even when they seem strong on the outside. BeJon wasn’t just my cousin; he was one of the few people who truly understood me. We both knew what it felt like to carry heavy burdens and still try to smile. He was the person I could laugh with, vent to, and feel safe around. When he left this world, it felt like a part of me went with him. BeJon’s passing forced me to confront what so many people avoid: the urgency of mental health, especially in Black communities. We’re often taught to be strong, to keep pushing, and to never talk about depression, anxiety, or suicidal thoughts. But strength isn’t about staying silent. Real strength is facing the pain and having the courage to ask for help. His death broke me in ways I still can’t fully explain, but it also gave my life a clearer purpose. I already knew hardship. I was raised in unstable environments, survived abuse, went in and out of homes, and lived through foster care. I knew what it was like to be abandoned, misunderstood, and left to figure out life alone. But losing BeJon made me realize that surviving isn’t enough. We have to build something better for those coming after us. We have to be the help we once needed. That’s why I chose to major in psychology at Clark Atlanta University. As a freshman with a 4.0 GPA, I’m not here just to get a degree. I’m here on a mission. I want to become a licensed psychologist and trauma-informed counselor who works directly with youth and families facing the kinds of battles BeJon and I both knew too well. I want to be someone who listens, not just to words, but to what people aren’t saying. I want to see them, the way BeJon saw me. In honor of BeJon, I plan to open a mental health and wellness center that provides free counseling, suicide prevention education, and support groups for people of color, especially young Black men who are so often told to suffer in silence. I want to create safe spaces that normalize asking for help and saying, “I’m not okay.” I want to lead the conversations that too many people are too afraid to start. And I won’t stop there. I’ll speak on stages, in schools, in churches, and on social media. I’ll tell my story. I’ll tell BeJon’s story. Because he didn’t die in vain, and I won’t let his memory fade in silence. Every step I take in this field is for him. Every life I help save, every person I sit beside in their darkest hour, is my way of saying to him, I heard you, even when you couldn’t speak. BeJon taught me how powerful it is to feel seen, even if only by one person. He showed me that love and pain often come hand in hand. Now, I carry both with me, but I carry them with purpose. Through my future, I will honor his past. And through the lives I touch, BeJon will continue to live, not as a tragedy, but as a reason for hope.

My upbringing has profoundly shaped who I am today, fueling my drive to create a legacy of hope, resilience, and empowerment. Growing up, I faced significant challenges, including physical abuse, neglect, and a parent struggling with addiction. These experiences instilled in me an early sense of distrust, instability, and insecurity, but they also planted the seeds of determination that have guided my journey. Living in motels and abandoned buildings during my early years, I was exposed to chaos and uncertainty, which taught me the value of stability and the importance of a supportive environment. These painful memories, though difficult to revisit, now serve as my greatest motivators. Foster care became a turning point in my life, offering me a glimpse of the stability I longed for. It also opened my eyes to the systemic issues within the foster system and inspired my passion for advocating for vulnerable children and families. A tragic loss within my family to suicide further solidified my commitment to mental health advocacy, underscoring the urgency of addressing trauma and providing support for those in need. While these experiences could have left me bitter or defeated, always wondering why bad things happened to me, they instead shaped me into someone resilient, empathetic, and determined to turn adversity into purpose. The positive influence of my aunt, who provided me with stability and self-worth, showed me that not all circumstances are permanent and that a brighter future is attainable with the right support. She helped me understand that while I could not change my past, I had the power to shape my future. This realization became the foundation of my goal to become a clinical psychologist. I want to be for others what my aunt was for me—a source of stability, encouragement, and guidance. Using my experiences, I aim to build a legacy of transformation. I plan to advocate for those who feel unheard, especially children and families navigating systems like foster care. My personal journey gives me a unique perspective on trauma, abandonment, and resilience, allowing me to connect deeply with individuals who face similar challenges. By earning a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Clark Atlanta University, pursuing advanced degrees, and immersing myself in research, I will develop the tools to not only help others heal but also address systemic issues in mental health care. My goal is to create a ripple effect of positive change, empowering individuals to rise above their circumstances and embrace their resilience. I will use my past as a source of strength, transforming the pain of my experiences into tools to uplift others. By challenging stereotypes and defying odds, I hope to inspire those around me to build their own legacies of growth and healing. My story is a testament to the strength of the human spirit, and I am determined to use it as a foundation for making a meaningful impact in the world.

The journey to becoming a clinical psychologist is one of perseverance, self-discovery, and a commitment to helping others, including the unique needs of gifted children. After earning a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Clark Atlanta University, I aim to dedicate my career to supporting gifted children by fostering their social-emotional well-being and intellectual growth. Gifted children often face challenges such as heightened emotional sensitivity, perfectionism, and difficulty navigating conventional social structures. These complexities require a holistic, research-based, and empathetic approach, which I am determined to provide. My first step will be pursuing a master’s degree, focusing on trauma, resilience, and child psychological development, including the unique experiences of gifted children. Many gifted children experience asynchronous development, where their advanced intellectual abilities contrast with their emotional or social growth. Understanding these dynamics will allow me to create tailored interventions to help them thrive both academically and emotionally. This specialized education will equip me to address their dual needs and empower them to balance their strengths with personal growth. In addition to formal education, I plan to engage in community service and mentorship opportunities that center on gifted youth. Volunteering in schools and organizations that serve this population will provide me with firsthand experience and insights into their struggles, such as social isolation, boredom, and anxiety stemming from high expectations. These opportunities will help me build meaningful relationships with gifted children and their families while fostering environments where they feel valued, supported, and understood. Community engagement will also enable me to develop practical strategies for promoting their well-being and self-confidence. A key aspect of my career development involves seeking mentorship from experienced psychologists specializing in child psychology and gifted education. By shadowing their work, I will learn evidence-based practices for assessing and supporting gifted children. This mentorship will also prepare me for the required one-year internship or postdoctoral program to become a licensed clinical psychologist. These experiences will refine my ability to address the diverse needs of gifted children, ensuring I can provide effective and compassionate care. Long-term, I aim to pursue a Ph.D. in Psychology with a research focus on giftedness and the interplay between intellectual and emotional development. This advanced training will allow me to explore innovative ways to improve the mental health and educational outcomes of gifted children. For example, I plan to study how therapeutic interventions, mindfulness techniques, and emotional intelligence training can help them navigate the pressures of high expectations and perfectionism. Additionally, I hope to collaborate with educators and policymakers to develop integrated programs that combine academic enrichment with mental health support. My passion for this work is deeply rooted in my personal experiences of adversity and resilience. Growing up, I faced significant challenges, including neglect, physical abuse, and the instability of foster care. These hardships instilled in me a profound appreciation for the importance of stability, advocacy, and emotional well-being. While my story differs from that of gifted children, my journey has equipped me with the empathy and determination to address their unique challenges. These experiences fuel my commitment to creating safe spaces where gifted children can embrace their strengths and vulnerabilities without fear of judgment or failure. Gifted children often feel pressured to excel academically while suppressing their emotional needs. As a clinical psychologist, I aim to help them balance their intellectual pursuits with their mental health. By teaching them resilience, emotional regulation, and self-compassion, I hope to empower them to achieve their goals while maintaining a strong sense of self-worth. My approach will emphasize creating safe, judgment-free spaces where they can express themselves authentically, fostering self-confidence and personal growth. Beyond working directly with children, I aspire to contribute to the field through research, advocacy, and public education. By shedding light on the unique challenges gifted children face, I hope to challenge misconceptions and foster a more inclusive understanding of their needs. My work will emphasize destigmatizing mental health challenges among gifted children and advocating for systems that prioritize both their academic and emotional well-being. In conclusion, my career as a clinical psychologist will be dedicated to addressing the social-emotional and intellectual needs of gifted children. Through advanced education, mentorship, community engagement, and research, I aim to empower these children to navigate their challenges and embrace their unique identities. By addressing their needs holistically, I hope to make a lasting impact on their lives and contribute to a society that supports and celebrates giftedness in all its complexity. My journey, shaped by resilience and compassion, will guide me as I work to foster a brighter and more balanced future for gifted children.

Born into a family of dysfunction and disappointments, I’m determined to become the first Lampkin to earn a college degree, where I can utilize my knowledge to assist people with similar problematic experiences. Formerly raised by a single mother, an imprisoned father, I’ve never experienced love or support by them. From four to seven years old, my drug addicted mother had consistently prioritized drugs, theft, incarceration, over my well-being. Living in motels, left with strangers she barely knew, riding in trunks of cars allowing room for her friends, and forced to hide items so we can leave without paying, was clearly no life for a child. I suffered mental, emotional, physical abuse, as well as three years of sexual abuse by the hands of a family member who’s now serving a 35-year imprisonment. Due to the wrongdoing of my mother and negligence of her family, such as evading police, not enrolling me in school, instability, my traumatized life would change forevermore. However the blessing in disguise would come when she one day enrolled me in school, a day I will never forget. Summoned to the office, where D.C.F.S. representatives awaited me, leaving me crying, screaming, and kicking with fear in my heart of the unknown whereabouts of my mother and If I’d ever see her again. As months passed, adapting to my new environment, I lived in constant fear of going to school, terrified that someone would again take me away from the new life I grew to know. Growing up in Foster Care, I developed emotional insecurities, abandonment issues and confusion. I continued to struggle with low self-esteem, as I looked into the mirror filled with sadness because I saw the reflection of worthlessness. Sometimes being treated unkind, receiving hand me downs, and instability, I knew overall being protected from harm was far more important. By the age of nine, thank God, the courts found an Aunt on my father’s side who took legal guardianship over me, where I currently reside. I learnt the value of an education, self confidence, love and stability! I vowed to never let the reflection of my past, define nor deter my future. Hardships have fueled my determination in pursuit of a gratifying career of helping people suffering from abandonment, mental health, trauma, and abuse. The path of education I seek will allow me to counsel and diagnose areas of concern. As a testament of my resilience and dedication, I maintained a 4.0 GPA even with the higher level classes such as AP, Honors, Dual Enrollment. Throughout high school, I studied peer counseling where I could help others navigate their emotions, provide a listening ear, and potentially find resolutions. My true growth has come from developing a deep sense of compassion, particularly with people who find themselves in need of guidance and support. Through these experiences, I've realized a profound truth: It’s better to focus your energy on the positive rather than the negative. Please assist me in doing so.

My name is Junia Lampkin. I've navigated the foster care system, grappled with my parents' struggles, and faced unimaginable trauma. Yet, through it all, I've discovered my resilience and the power of unwavering support. From a young age, I experienced the harsh realities of addiction and incarceration through my parents' actions. I felt abandoned and unstable, and the betrayal of being molested by a family member for four years further complicated my fragile sense of self. When CPS intervened, I was shuffled between various family members, never quite finding the stability I craved. My time in foster care was mixed - one home was neglectful, while another provided the warmth that helped me reclaim my smile. The turning point came when my aunt, my father's sister, discovered me. She became my guiding light, showing me the potential and strength within me. Meeting her and my siblings was nerve-wracking, but her unwavering support helped me begin to heal. Having a relationship with my father was a milestone, but when given the choice to stay with my aunt, father, or foster family, the decision was clear: my aunt was the only person I wanted to care for me. Having my aunt as my guardian has brought immense joy, but our journey has not been without challenges. She has pushed me beyond my limits, helping me realize my academic potential and build a strong sense of self. I'm grateful for her unwavering belief in me. My aunt has instilled in me the importance of integrity and accountability. She's taught me that I must be my own advocate. This lesson has been crucial as I've navigated high school. Holding myself accountable has been instrumental in shaping my character. One of the most challenging times was in the wake of my cousin's suicide in 7th grade. His death sent me into a tailspin, and my grades began to slip. But I knew giving up wasn't what he would have wanted. I dug deep, turned things around, and worked tirelessly to improve my performance. Earning recognition was one of my proudest moments, a testament to the strength my aunt has helped me cultivate. Through sharing my story, I hope to inspire others to see their potential. I am living proof that with unwavering support and belief in oneself, we can overcome even the darkest times and build a brighter future. In the spirit of agape love, I strive to give back. I volunteer at a local organization that supports foster youth, offering tutoring and mentoring. I participate in awareness campaigns, advocating for the needs of foster youth and the importance of stable homes. Through these actions, I aim to embody the unconditional love that has been so transformative in my life, and help create a brighter future for others.

My name is Junia Lampkin. As a young black woman who has navigated the foster care system, grappled with her parents' struggles, and faced unimaginable trauma, my journey has been marked by adversity. Yet, through it all, I have discovered my resilience and the power of unwavering support. From a young age, I experienced the harsh realities of addiction and incarceration through my parents' actions. My mother's drug addiction and my father's intermittent presence in jail left me feeling abandoned and unstable. The betrayal and pain of being molested by a family member for four years further complicated my already fragile sense of self. When CPS intervened and removed me from my mother's care, I was shuffled between various family members, never quite finding the stability I craved. My time in foster care was a mixed bag - one home was neglectful and cold, while another provided the warmth and kindness that helped me reclaim my smile. Even then, the longing for my mother lingered, a testament to the deep-seated yearning for familial love. The turning point came when my aunt, my father's sister, discovered me in the foster care system. She became my guiding light, showing me the potential and strength that lay within me. Meeting her and my siblings for the first time was nerve-wracking, but her unwavering support helped me begin to heal. Although my father didn't live up to my idealized version of him, having a relationship with him was still a significant milestone. Ultimately, when given the choice to stay with my aunt, my father, or return to my foster family, the decision was clear: my aunt was the only person I wanted to care for me. Having my aunt as my legal guardian has brought immense joy, but our journey has not been without its challenges. She has pushed me beyond my perceived limits, helping me realize my academic potential and build a strong sense of self. While I sometimes wonder what my life would be like if she hadn't found me, I am grateful for her unwavering belief in me. One of the most valuable lessons my aunt has instilled in me is the importance of integrity and accountability. She has taught me that I must be my own advocate, that I cannot always rely on others to propel me forward. As I've navigated my high school years, this lesson has been crucial. Holding myself accountable for my actions - whether it's completing homework, making responsible choices, or owning up to my mistakes - has been instrumental in shaping my character. One of the most challenging times I had to hold myself accountable was in the wake of my cousin's suicide in 7th grade. His death sent me into a tailspin, and my grades began to slip. But I knew that giving up wasn't what he would have wanted for me. Digging deep, I turned things around and worked tirelessly to improve my performance. Earning recognition as a student people spoke highly of was one of my proudest moments, a testament to the strength and resilience my aunt has helped me cultivate. Through sharing my story, I hope to inspire others to see their own potential, just as my aunt helped me see mine. I am living proof that with unwavering support and an unshakeable belief in oneself, we can overcome even the darkest of times and build a brighter future.