Kindness and selflessness are attributes that I make efforts to embody and convey in my every day life. I would gladly hand over my last dollar to someone who needed it more than myself. If a loved one has an emergency, I will drop everything immediately to help them. If I were given the choice between wealth or protecting my friends and family, I would choose their wealth and safety over my own wealth and safety. As a Nondenominational Christian, I firmly believe that God has called His followers to love selflessly and give back what He has given us. The pattern of kindness that I have shown is coming to peoples rescues in times of need. One morning, I woke up to a text from my dad telling me to call him when I can. As soon as I called, he informed me that his truck broke down on the way to work and he had been stuck at the gas station since four in the morning. It was abundantly clear that he needed my help, so without hesitation, I threw on some clothes and made my way to meet him at the gas station. That same day, I was supposed to have a meeting with my summer student advisor to discuss my classes for the upcoming semester. However, I knew rescheduling was necessary, so I sent an email briefly explaining my issue and secured a different day and time. Once his truck finally got towed, I drove him to an auto parts store on the way home so he could get what he needed. He ended up not making it to work, but he knew what was wrong and rectified the issue. Although getting the truck towed took much longer than we expected, everything else was secondary. He was incredibly thankful for my help and said that I saved the day. Over the summer this year, both my mom and grandma had surgery. My grandma's recovery was especially long and painful. At one point, she had to make an emergency visit with her surgeon and be seen right away. My aunt called to let me know that she needed to be seen as soon as possible. From there, I stopped what I was doing, picked up my grandma and got her to the clinic. I decided to delay on applying for jobs until my mom and grandma fully recovered and were back at work. I kept reminding myself that jobs and money are replaceable, not your loved ones. I went to my grandma's house every day to check on her and do some chores. I also drove her to any appointments she needed to attend, when she was unable to drive. Before my mom returned home from her operation, I bought her a card, a get well balloon, and some vibrant flowers. Her eyes lit up the moment she stepped foot and saw everything. It was a relief for me to see her and hug her again. While my mom recovered, I stayed home with her and fulfilled needs, while also continuing to help my grandma. I made sure to be readily available and have preparedness for situations that required urgency. They all thanked me up and down for all the help provided. Now, I am at peace knowing that both procedures are behind all of us. Colossians 3:12 writes, "Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience." God tells us to give, without expecting anything in return. He has revealed to me that having a giving heart is uplifting and rewarding to our communities and also ourselves, knowing that we made an impact. Even the smallest deeds of goodness can accumulate and build a positive foundation for our society. A helping hand, a text to a friend checking on them, and words of wisdom truly come a long way. We are called to make a difference, which starts with us and is only up to us.

Leadership and community involvement, especially throughout my education, were and are two of my biggest values. While it may not always be the moon, stars and rainbows, your trajectories, passions, and efforts dictate your performance. During high school, I was in a multitude of clubs. From National Honors Society, the Earth First Club, Kiwanis Educates Youth (KEY) Club, and Fellowship of Christian Athlete's (FCA), it is safe to say the volunteerism kept me on my toes, especially while being dual-enrolled and taking college courses simultaneously. Nonetheless, every deed and all the dedicated time was worthwhile. Freshman year was when I decided to join the Earth First and KEY Clubs. At the time, I was just a member. During my sophomore year, I became the Executive Board Member for the Earth First Club, in which I helped coordinate the meetings and events. I had also continued the KEY Club and joined National Honors Society. Unfortunately, the pandemic hit in the middle of 10th grade, which put a damper on the Earth First and KEY Clubs and caused them to discontinue. Although it was disheartening to witness an end to those two vibrant clubs, my hunger for leadership only increased. When I went back to brick-and-mortar school for senior year, I rejoined National Honors Society and became a general officer for FCA. This entailed attending bi-weekly meetings to discuss events and special happenings. I even had the chance to speak at huddle's and Bible studies held, which was an incredibly rewarding experience. From there, we witnessed an increase in attendees. My career ambition is to do Social Work specifically in the mental health field. Advocacy is a dream of mine, especially being an individual who has personally faced mental health obstacles. Sadly, mental health tends to get invalidated and it needs to be destigmatized. Many people are afraid to ask for help, and the fear of discrimination is one of the reasons. Sometimes, speaking up for what you feel is needed for your wellbeing can take courage. Our society has made some headway in implementing services and spreading awareness. We have hotlines, online and in-person therapy, and more. Since 2020, 10 states have passed laws allowing kids to take mental rest days. At the same time, there is still room for improvement. This means being a leader and speaking for those who can't. It may be difficult to accomplish at times, but it will not be impossible.

At the tender age of three, I was diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder. While I do not have memory of the diagnosis, I could feel the worry from my parents when they told me the story. Understandably, it was a concern regarding what the future would hold for me. Throughout my childhood, I went through years of Speech and Occupational Therapy, which helped me make tremendous progress. I am incredibly grateful and blessed to have worked with wonderful therapists. Autism has not cursed my life. Sure, it may have changed life from how it would have been in some ways. Nonetheless, it has set me apart and encouraged self-authenticity. I remind myself that I am different and everyone is different. There is no such thing as total normality in the state of humanity. As one of my therapists have told me, perfection does not exist. Person-first language instead of identity-first language is something I make sure to use. I am not an autistic person. I am a person living with Autism. Regardless of the stumbling blocks I have faced and may eventually encounter, Autism does not take over me. This year, I graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology with a minor in Anthropology. Throughout my time as an undergraduate student, I made an effort to showcase leadership. I was a member of Omicron Delta Kappa, a prestigious leadership honor society. During the fall semester of my senior year, I was the secretary for the Fellowship of Christian Athlete's (FCA) Club. My responsibilities were keeping members up to date on huddles and other happenings, presenting song slides during the worship period, and attending mandatory meetings. Before then, I was a general officer for FCA during my senior year of high school. It was an honor to go in full circle with my leadership in a club I had huge passion for. Currently, my goals are to work and apply for a Master's in Social Work sometime in the next year. Ultimately, my career aspiration is to be a Social Worker specifically in mental health. I hope to counsel and advocate for those facing obstacles with their mental health or disabilities. Autism is a prime example of something that needs and deserves more attention and respect. Everyone deserves to have a voice and feel heard. I still have a ways to go, but I can willingly take the time to continue learning and gaining the expertise.

Firstly, thank you to the donors for this wonderful scholarship and the opportunity to share something close to my heart. Your kindness, selflessness, and generosity are greatly appreciated and do not go unnoticed. Some people we encounter in life are set apart in one way or another, including myself. I am a first-generation college student from a single-parent and low-income household. All these things inspire me to show tenacity during difficult times. Many of us have been told that everything happens for a reason. As a Nondenominational Christian, I firmly believe that God has divine plans, even those that may initially feel foreign to us. When I was nine, I found out towards then end of the school year that I needed to repeat third grade. That was because I did not pass the standardized tests required to move onto fourth grade. I felt overwhelmed and concerned about the future, like my parents did when they found out the news. Nonetheless, I made sure to have a good attitude and stay optimistic. My mom made the selfless decision to wait on getting a job so she can be home to help me. We worked hard and tirelessly, and I passed all the tests and could move on. Having the extra year was truly a gift to my education. This year, I graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology with a minor in Anthropology. Currently, my goals are to work and then apply for a Master in Social Work sometime next year. Regarding my career, I want to be a Social Worker specifically for mental health. I hope to advocate and counsel those facing obstacles to help them feel not alone in the world. I am eager to learn how to make this dream a reality.

Throughout my life, I have struggled with anxiety in different ways and forms. For me, the anxiety has been ever-evolving. In other words, some things that used to be bothersome are not as anxiety-inducing, while other stressors have either developed over time or stuck around. I am a very sensitive individual who cares about people and the surrounding world. As a little kid, I was incredibly shy at times and endured separation anxiety. I was particularly attached to my mom and sometimes got nervous whenever she was not with me. For example, if I had a birthday party to attend, I would want at least her, my dad, or my nana to be with me. I felt too on edge about being dropped off and picked up, unless I was going to school. The same went for school field trips. Although my separation anxiety dwindled down, I developed generalized anxiety in 5th grade. Whenever I attempted to open up about my feelings, there were a few times people told me, "Just don't worry about it." I felt as though my feelings were invalidated and pushed to the side and because of it, I would try to cover everything up with a smile. Furthermore, the thought of people seeing me anxious and worrying about me worried me. In 7th grade, my anxiety returned, after a while of feeling happier and more hopeful for my mental health. On top of that, I often got sad, depressed, and frustrated, due to bullying at my school. It made me feel like a burden on my friends, teachers, and even my own family. Eventually, I decided enough was enough and it was time to seek help. Since then, I have been seeing the same therapist for monthly counseling sessions. While I still have moments of stress and tears, I am proud to say that my mental state has improved considerably. Through a closer relationship with the Lord and therapy, I have found the light. I have surrendered and traded lives with God, knowing He has total control. Whenever I fall off the bike, I find a way to get right back on it. I turn everything around and revert to more positive, productive, and independent thinking. As a first-generation college student, I value my bachelor's degree in psychology, as it is more than just an artifact. It is inching me closer to my dream career, which is Social Work in mental health. It will be an honor to have the turn to advocate and counsel those in need. Social Work is necessary, given the mental health stigma. Sadly, many are afraid to ask for help. The discriminatory behavior towards mental health delegitimizes the importance. This is something I want to change and the change starts with us. I still have a ways to go in my education, but I am eager to learn and take the time to absorb the expertise needed for the future.

This year, I graduated with my Bachelor's Degree in Psychology with a minor in Anthropology. Nonetheless, my story does not end there, as I still have a ways to go. It is not about closing the book, but bringing an end to the chapter and opening a new one. Ultimately, my career goal is to become a Social Worker, specifically in the field of mental health. To do this, the plan is to get experience as relevant as possible, before applying for a Masters in Social Work sometime next year. This will help me become more knowledgeable before and during my journey towards the graduate degree. Coming from personal experience, I have faced obstacles with my mental health, which have propelled me to seek therapy. I started having high anxiety in 5th grade and potential depression in 7th grade, while I was bullied. Most days, I would try to wear a smile on my face to cover it up, because I worried about looking vulnerable and weak whenever I did show my emotions. The thought of people worrying about me also worried me. A few times when I opened up, people have said to me, "Just don't worry about it." That phrase alone was hurtful and made me mad deep down, because I felt as though my feelings were invalidated and pushed to the side. Going to therapy encouraged me to reach out for support from my loved ones and feel heard. I am hugely passionate about advocating for the mental health field and the people who are affected. The truth is, mental health does not care how blissful your life is. Having a mental health issue is equivalent to having a cold. It is out of your control and never your fault. When we look at everyone we meet, we cannot read their mind, in terms of how they think and feel. As previously stated, I concealed my true feelings, so nobody noticed. When I was home and felt safe, the waterworks came consisting of hours of tears. Even though mental struggles cannot always be identified, the stigma needs to be broken. There is a gap between mental and physical health that is getting filled, slowly but surely. Many of those impacted are afraid to ask for help. I want to teach people that it is okay to be vulnerable. It is okay to reach out. It is okay to not be okay.

Understanding the whats, the whys, and the hows is vital to getting to know the natural world around us. Science is virtually everywhere, whether that is through biology, chemistry, physics, you name it. Science has always been my favorite subject in school. Early on, I found studying the subject in and out of the classroom intriguing and compelling. As a little girl, I enjoyed doing small yet made-up, at-home, entertaining, spontaneous, impromptu experiments. Some examples are mixing baking soda and vinegar, combining water and vegetable oil, freezing juices or colored ice cubes, and putting flowers in colored water to see if any pigments arise. There was one time when an experiment led to a mild mishap. This was when I thought it would be a splendid idea to heat a hard lifesaver in the microwave to see if it would turn into a gummy candy. Lo and behold, the lifesaver ended up melting and creating a hole in the bowl, which looked like coagulated blood. Needless to say, it did not end exactly how I hoped, but it was and is a laughable moment. Over time, my interest in science has evolved from one field to another. For a long time, I wanted to be a veterinarian, which involves animal science. That changed when I discovered psychology and took the class as an elective during my sophomore year of high school. Since then, my heart has been set on psychology. Saying that psychology is a science is plausible. Nonetheless, it can be seen as a type of science and social science. If you think about it, every word uttered, every decision made, every behavior showcased, and every action committed stems from our state of mind or conscience. Regarding mental health disorders, we are quick to speculate that genetics, chemical imbalances, anatomical abnormalities in the brain and/or environmental factors are at play, although the cause of certain conditions is an unanswered question. Therefore, we can argue that psychology falls under the scientific realm because a cause-and-effect phenomenon is involved. Autism is a prime example of a disorder in which the cause is still to this day unknown. in 1992, the Autism rate was 1 in 150, indicating relatively rare cases. According to the CDC, the prevalence as of 2024 is 1 in 36 children, which shows a substantially high increase in the cases. Thus, the demand for services clinically proven to help children with Autism has skyrocketed. The need and desire to seek Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) has especially increased. It is abundantly clear that Autism is a huge public health concern and we cannot solely blame genetics anymore. Researchers are currently exploring whether environmental factors such as viral infections, medications, pregnancy complications, or air pollutants play a role in triggering the disorder. Harmful additives in the food and drinks we consume are also predictors. People have expressed concerns that ASD and vaccines are linked, despite studies not detecting correlations between the two. Unfortunately, scientists cannot entirely pinpoint the exact cause, as more research has yet to be conducted and thoroughly reviewed. In fact, I was diagnosed with Autism at the tender age of three. Autism is one of those disorders that has a broad spectrum and is questionable, in terms of what leads to the development. Autism does not appear to run in my family, my parents are comparatively young, my mother did not experience illnesses or complications during pregnancy, and so on. Who would have thought that Autism would be a part of me and how did it happen? To truthfully respond, the short and only answer is we do not know. The good news is even though Autism is not curable, therapies and interventions can make a difference, as previously stated. This can bring hope to the future for parents in the same boat. I am grateful my parents sought early intervention for me, as it led to tremendous growth and independence, notwithstanding, all the treatments needed to have undergone experimental trials and tedious research, before being deemed practicable. Speaking of research, my undergraduate project this year was; "School-Based Interventions for ADHD." For this study, I updated a meta-analysis to evaluate if school-based interventions continue to be effective for school-aged students with Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Contingency management, cognitive-behavioral, and academic interventions were studied. The results showed moderate-to-large effects, and when comparing the updated and previous meta-analyses, the findings were rather similar. This indicates that school-based interventions should be a first-line treatment for ADHD. This is essentially the summary of the project, but it was worthwhile in my education. I also had the chance to interview an individual I know who has ADHD. I learned about how the development, the diagnosis, the symptoms, the treatments sought, and the effects the disorder had on the individual, their family, and schooling. It was an honor to coordinate the interview, as it helped me better understand what goes on in their world and the significance ADHD can have on someone. The exact cause of ADHD is also unclear and still has room for more research. Aside from genetics, other risk factors include exposure to lead and environmental toxins, maternal drug or alcohol use, smoking during pregnancy, and premature birth. Many say that sugar is one of the culprits because it is said to be a popular suspect in leading to bouts of energy and hyperactivity. This may be up for debate, but there is no reliable proof of this. Risk factors and causes are more different than we may think. When we talk about risk factors or predictors, we talk about things that do not guarantee that something will happen but can increase the likelihood. When we talk about causes, we talk about things that are proven to make something happen. As said in the beginning, psychology contains a cause-and-effect phenomenon, whether or not the causes can be recognized. As a psychology major, I am eager to learn more about how the brain works through everything we do from thinking, decision-making, navigating difficult circumstances, and more. For example, I sometimes overanalyze things in a conflict or situation. Many women, including myself, often feel guilty for standing up for themselves, especially towards an authority figure, such as a professor, supervisor, or boss. When I overanalyze, I think about every word and decision, how the phrases and actions can be perceived, and how all parties involved will be affected. It gets to the point of feeling overwhelmed and not knowing what is right. Although there are social factors for women naturally feeling more afraid to show assertiveness than men, scientific reasonings for this are not explicit. Because of that, I hope to uncover how the mind and body influence how we choose to defend ourselves or simply cope with what we face. Science can be described and visualized acrostically as: Searching and collecting data in many varied ways to explore nature's chemistry and empirically test the physical world around us. The scientific method may initially sound rudimentary, but it is an ingeniously conceived and directorial schema. In other words, it is a comprehensively orchestrated and supported method to make scientific processes and observations decipherable. From start to finish, the basic process involves creating an observation to acquire background knowledge, forming a hypothesis, assembling a prediction, conducting a structured experiment, making noteworthy observations to use as outcomes, and finally analyzing the results. This was used for my senior project to write out the manuscript, which consisted of the introduction, methods, results, discussion, implications, limitations, and conclusion. Science is an ever-evolving subject, so it is important to maintain an open mind. Instead of ending a sentence with a period, choose to do so with a semicolon. What this means is that just because an experiment is successfully done does not mean that research should be automatically discontinued. This is when repetition and replication come in handy to ensure that the results stay valid and consistent. We have more discoveries awaiting our reach and the splendor science contains should always be appreciated.

Let's face it. Mental health has always been a struggle my entire life in some way or another. At the tender age of three, I was diagnosed with Autism. I would hide behind my parents to avoid social interaction, cover my ears and hide when it got too loud in a room, and struggle with immense separation anxiety whenever my mom was not with me. Thunderstorms, fireworks, balloons popping, unexpected changes, being put in the spotlight, and even a family gathering was enough to lead to sensory overload and a full-blown meltdown almost every time. Despite vanquishing those fears, I developed anxiety during 5th grade that occurred nearly 24/7. Oftentimes, it was difficult to demystify where the anxiety was directly stemming from. Looking back, I would describe myself as a worrier, because I was worried about things that did not appear to bother my peers. Eventually, the anxiety manifested in physical effects such as fatigue, lethargy, nausea, suppressed appetite, weight loss, and delayed growth. I remember feeling convinced something was medically wrong, despite lab tests not detecting anything concerning. I only knew so little about anxiety, so I could not fully decipher what was going on in my world. At the same time, I knew there was a cause. Once I entered middle school, my anxiety seemed to be getting better. I was happier, smiling and laughing so much more. This gave me hope that my mental health would return to a positive state, or so I thought. In the middle of 7th grade, my mental health took a dip due to bullying. It felt like a repeat of 5th grade, but worse. This time, I had not only anxiety, but potentially a depressive episode. On most days, I would cry in the bathroom at school or as soon as I got home and felt safe. Many nights also involved hours of tears and crying myself to sleep due to frustration, bitterness, loneliness, doubt, and worry. It was abundantly clear how much the bullying affected me. I felt like a burden on my friends, teachers, and even my own family. I have lots to be thankful for. I have a great family, wonderful parents, and an awesome circle of friends. I always had high academics, a whole slew of awards, fun parties, and more. It may sound like the picture-perfect life at first glance. Nonetheless, nobody is immune, including myself. 5th and 7th grade were times when I felt at my lowest. Over 90% of the time, I would fake a smile everywhere I went and internalize my feelings so people did not worry about me. There were occasions when I attempted to be open and the first thing I heard was, "Just don't worry about it." That would infuriate me, because rather than feeling heard, I felt as though my feelings were being invalidated and set aside. Because of that, I would bottle up my feelings, tell myself to suck it up, and handle everything on my own. My self-esteem decreased and I became strong-headed when it came to goals. Eventually, I realized enough was enough. I expressed my interest in going to counseling to my parents. We came to a mutual consensus that therapy would be beneficial, and it was. Now, I am much happier and my anxiety has gone down tremendously. Although I still have moments of anxiety and frustration, I have acquired effective coping mechanisms. The anxiety is not as dominant on my life as it was before. I still to this day see the same therapist, with whom I have developed a nurturing, trusting relationship. Rekindling my relationship with the Lord has also helped me find light. I decided to get baptized freshman year of high school and it redeemed me. I have grown even stronger in my faith and I thank God for everything that has brought me to where I am today. The good, the bad, and the ugly have moved me to trust in Him knowing that He is my backbone. To everyone reading from behind the screen, please know that you are strong, capable, worthy, beautiful, and loved.

Last year, I got certified in Adult Mental Health First Aid. This certification has been used to provide support to those who are struggling. Showing empathy, patience, open-mindedness, and sensitivity to the needs of others is something I vow to continue conveying. At a get-together I hosted this year, one of my friends felt extremely anxious and on edge to the point of leaving early. I could tell by their demeanor that they were distressed and bothered. Because of that, everyone else and I felt worried, leading me to ask my friend if they would rather be home. They were quick to say that they already called for a ride. I responded and said, "Know that I'm not upset, and nobody is upset. I'm not judging you, nobody else is judging you. I just want you to do what is best for yourself and feel safe, if that means needing to go home to breathe and mentally recuperate. I care about you and I'm here for you." Later that day, my friend texted and was apologetic for leaving, but thanked me for understanding. I was happy to hear things improved and felt accomplished for staying coolheaded and respecting their wishes, instead of being judgmental. These skills can make a tremendous difference because our words emit so much energy. As a career, I have thought about becoming a Pediatric Mental Health Counselor. Being an individual who has faced mental health obstacles, I feel inspired to have a turn to advocate for those in need. What I experienced has enabled me to put myself in other people's shoes and understand through various lenses, whenever someone opens up to me about stressors. Mental health deserves more awareness and to be destigmatized. To everyone reading from behind the screen, know that you are beautiful, capable, strong, worthy, and loved.

Traveling enables you to see the world around you and what is beyond your front door. Immersing yourself in different cultures, perspectives, and environments helps you maintain open-mindedness and gain insight. This could mean taking a step out of your comfort zone and adapting. This could also mean dedicating your finances to a trip to ensure affordability, which takes much effort. Nonetheless, traveling should still be considered, especially when it comes to once-in-a-lifetime experiences. Over spring break this year, I studied abroad in Athens, Greece with three professors and about twenty students, including myself. This was a faculty-led program focusing on international business, in which we learned about some advancements yet to be made in Athens. It was my first time not only traveling abroad but also flying on a plane. I had never flown on a plane up until this study abroad program. Junior year of high school is when I expressed an interest in studying abroad at least one time during college. Meanwhile, I discovered a program that takes place every summer in Innsbruck, Austria. Although that program would have been a great option, it was virtually impossible to afford. Eventually, I found out about a program that took place during spring break in Venice, Italy, which was far more financially doable. However, the competition among the applicants was rather fierce and I was unfortunately not selected. It made me feel taken aback, because I worked incredibly hard to build a robust application. Notwithstanding, the two unsuccessful attempts of studying abroad did not strip away my goal whatsoever. If anything, it fueled my desire to make the dream a reality. That is when I decided to apply for the study abroad program in Greece. I hoped and prayed with all my heart that studying abroad could happen. Lo and behold, I got into the program and saying I was over-the-moon excited is an understatement. Between putting together a GoFundMe and receiving donations, as well as working on-campus, I saved the hard-earned money for the trip. All the efforts of being a part of this miraculous adventure paid off in the end, even when I faced occasional stress while preparing. Words alone are not enough to express the gratitude I have for the incredible study abroad opportunity. It was one of the biggest yet best decisions I have ever made in my life. Studying abroad has helped me maintain an open mind and gain independence. I would not have wanted my first experience any other way.

Although I have not been diagnosed with a mental illness, it is safe to say that I have encountered some obstacles. Despite having a beautiful life consisting of wonderful parents, a great family, nurturing teachers, an awesome circle of friends, and good health, that did not mean I was not hurting. Mental health did not care about the countless blessings I have. My story may come as a shock to some who read it. Nonetheless, nobody is immune, and that includes myself. My mental health journey started in 5th grade. Almost every day, I exhibited immense, almighty anxiety. I was worried about things that did not appear to concern my peers. Oftentimes, I could not quite figure out where the anxiety was directly stemming from. However, I can look back and see how much it affected me. It got to the point I experienced somatic symptoms such as fatigue, nausea, and a suppressed appetite. As a result, I lost a lot of weight and wasn't growing, which became abundantly clear to my parents that something was wrong. I remember feeling convinced that I had a medical problem, even though tests did not detect anything. At the time, I did not understand that anxiety was the culprit. When I entered 6th grade, my anxiety improved. I felt happier and more optimistic about things. Because of that, I began to smile, laugh, and have fun so much more. My mental health seemed to be returning to the delightful state it was before, or so I thought. Towards the middle of 7th grade, I discovered that most of the students in one of my classes were bullying me. I encountered what I would call two-faced people. In other words, my classmates would speak nicely whenever they talked to me, but uttered rude remarks behind my back, as I walked past them. What I found mind-boggling is that the students had the audacity to emit disrespectful language in the same room as me, and not say anything to my face. Learning this made me feel taken aback and disappointed. At first, I tried to give the bullying grace and let it pass on its own. Unfortunately, my efforts of ignoring failed and it continued. That's when I decided to speak up and be upfront about how it affected me. Even then, the bullying did not come to a complete stop until the school year concluded. Because of it, I began to doubt myself. I felt insecure, excluded and less than an individual. Almost every day, I would cry either in the bathroom at school or as soon as I got home and felt safe. On many nights, I cried myself to sleep as well. For a long time, I pondered on the thought of seeking therapy. From there, I found an incredible therapist with whom I still see to this day. We have built a nurturing and trusting relationship with each other. Since then, I have been attending monthly counseling sessions, which have been hugely beneficial. I have occasional downfalls, but I have acquired healthier coping mechanisms for moments of anxiety, frustration, and sadness, which are not as dominating as they were before. Seeking therapy has not only led to tremendous improvement, but independence, well-roundedness, and overall growth. My experience has encouraged me to become more patient, empathetic, and open-minded with others. It has also increased my passion for destigmatizing mental health. Every day, I strive to keep inching myself towards my goals and to better myself as an individual, especially in the future. I am still learning and putting together my life book.

I am a first-generation college student and it is safe to say that education is one of my biggest passions in life. My educational journey has involved milestones, learning curves, struggles, and some occasional obstacles that I have overcome. At the time I was nine, my parents and I found out toward the end of the school year that I needed to repeat third grade. That was because I struggled a lot and did not pass the standardized tests required for me to move on to fourth grade right away. It was a hard pill for all of us to swallow, knowing that most of my peers were getting promoted without me. Envisioning what the future would hold for me was difficult. Nonetheless, I did not want to let the setback overshadow me and impede my capabilities. Throughout the second year of third grade, my mom selflessly decided to wait on getting a job, so she could sit with me for projects, reading, and homework assignments. Although that meant becoming a stay-at-home mom, the sacrifice was well worth it and will never be taken for granted. It was not always easy. We had moments of frustration, confusion, and tears. In the end, we turned it around, started over, and reverted to more positive, productive, and independent thinking. Meanwhile, my teacher happily announced the news that I passed the standardized tests and was eligible for fourth grade. Needless to say, we all felt relieved, overjoyed, and ecstatic to see the hard work pay off. I could see a beam of light greeting me with praise at the end of the tunnel. During high school, I took honors classes for the core subjects and a few AP courses. From my sophomore year until graduation, I did dual enrollment, in which I took college and high school classes simultaneously. I finished high school Summa Cum Laude with an Associate of Arts degree, a 4.2 weighted GPA, and over one hundred volunteer hours. Working or volunteering while maintaining a high GPA are areas that I have accomplished and continue to achieve, leading to well-roundedness. Upon graduation, my ambition is to pursue a double-masters in Business Administration and Clinical Mental Health Counseling. To break this down, my goal is to first pursue the Master of Business Administration degree. After that, I hope to dedicate two to three years to earn the Clinical Mental Health Counseling degree. Although accomplishing both degrees will not happen overnight, I am more than willing to take the time I need to integrate important knowledge and become more equipped. As a career, I want to become a Pediatric Mental Health Counselor. An Adjunct Professor for psychology courses is another consideration. What I hope to achieve is destigmatizing mental health. Sadly, some people choose to undermine its importance and show discriminatory language, which delegitimizes those who are genuinely struggling. In 5th grade, I suffered from high anxiety that took a toll on me. A few times when I expressed my feelings, people uttered those words, "Just don't worry about it." It made me feel taken aback and as though my feelings were being invalidated or put to the side. This made me feel more on edge about opening up to others about my feelings. Because of that, I internalized my feelings much more and tried to handle the anxiety on my own, until I realized enough was enough. For a while, I pondered on the thought of going to therapy. In 7th grade, I started attending monthly counseling therapy sessions. To this day, I am still seeing the same therapist, with whom I have built a nurturing and trusting relationship. From there, I acquired healthy coping mechanisms that have been hugely beneficial for me. Even though I still have moments of anxiety and frustration, those feelings are not as dominant as they were before I sought therapy. Whenever I fall off the bike, I always find a way to get right back on it and keep going. Life is not all butterflies and flowers. Life is full of expectations versus realities. The perfect life is nonexistent. Educating others on the brain, mental health and its impacts is a must. We live in a society in which we are told to look out for each other and take action in serious situations. Being an individual who has faced mental health obstacles, I consider myself vulnerable in a way. At the same time, what I went through has enabled empathy, patience, and open-mindedness toward others. When someone opens up to me about a difficult time, I step into their shoes and understand from their frame of reference. In other words, I show that I do share and decipher the same feelings, even if I cannot fully relate to their experience. Every client and student deserves to be treated with respect and ultimately feel heard.

Traveling can help you broaden your horizons and have an open mind. Immersing yourself in different cultures, perspectives, and environments can help you see the world around you and what is beyond your front door. Not every country will operate in the same fashion, simply because there will always be unique rules, regulations, standards, and customs. Many parents say to their children, "My house, my rules." The same can be applied to each region of the world. When that is the case, we should respond appropriately instead of questioning or being judgmental, just because it seems different. Since my junior year of high school, I have dreamt of studying abroad at some point in college. I have never traveled out of the country, nor flown on a plane in my life. During my first year at Stetson University, I discovered a study abroad program related to psychology and business that took place for over a month in the summer. My interest sprung because I thought it was a great match for me. However, the cost was unaffordable, so I had to make the hard decision to discontinue my application and not be a part of the trip. Last spring semester, I learned about a study abroad program that takes place during spring break in Venice, Italy and is also psychology-related. It involves a course that is taken the whole semester along with the trip. The cost was much more reasonable, so I decided to apply. Due to the inexpensive trip, there was a high turnout of applicants, resulting in rather fierce competition. Unfortunately, my application was rejected, so I did not get selected to join. I felt very taken aback, heartbroken, and disappointed because I worked incredibly hard on assembling a robust application. Nonetheless, I did not want to let two unsuccessful attempts undermine my hope and dream. If anything, my ambition grew stronger. Last semester, I found out about a study abroad program in Athens, Greece that will also happen during this spring break. It pertains to International Business, but the trip was open to all students, so I applied. I also applied for a scholarship the business school offered. Lo and behold, not only did I get accepted into the program, but I was one of the few students who earned the business school scholarship. Saying I was thrilled is an understatement. Every person I know who has studied abroad at least one time has only raved about their experience. Many people have told me that it is an adventure of a lifetime and to go for it when an opportunity presents itself. Throughout my childhood, the chances of traveling were very few and far between. I have only been to Georgia, Tennessee, North Carolina, and some areas in my home state Florida. I have also lived in the same home my entire life and never moved. These are additional things that have inspired me to step out of my comfort zone and see new environments. On this day March 11th, I can now produce an update. After about a whole day of traveling, including about 17+ hours of flying, I returned home safely. I truly had the best time in Athens and am incredibly grateful for this once-in-a-lifetime experience. Now, I can say that I am a seasoned traveler and this is just the beginning of my adventures. Who would have thought that my first flight would be international? Needless to say, I will be talking about this trip for years to come and I would not have wanted it any other way.

Every one of us has fought battles coming from the supernatural force that we call life. Some are obvious, while others are more discrete. My example is something that cannot immediately be seen on the outside, which I am going to share. When I was nine years old, my parents and I found out toward the end of the school year that I needed to repeat third grade. That was because I did not pass the standardized tests needed to move on to fourth grade right away. The news was a hard pill to swallow, knowing that most of my peers at the time were being promoted without me. It was difficult to visualize the future and numerous what-ifs exploded in my mind. Nonetheless, I wanted to stay optimistic and have a good attitude. I did not want to let myself feel inferior or excluded because it would have only formed a gap between my peers and me. For a while, my mom considered getting a new job. However, she selflessly decided to become a stay-at-home mom, which allowed her to dedicate one-on-one time with me for homework, projects, and other school-related matters. Although that meant sitting on the thought of a job, the sacrifice was worthwhile and will never be taken for granted. At that point, my education came first and everything else was secondary. Let's face it. Not everything was a piece of cake. There were moments of frustration running high and overcoming us when things were cumbersome. In the end, we made sure to turn it all around and revert to more positive, productive, and independent thinking. We celebrated every milestone and every goal. As the testing season approached, I prepared myself. When the tests were put in front of me, I showed my effort. Meanwhile, my teacher informed us that I passed the standardized tests and was eligible to move up to fourth grade. Needless to say, we were all overjoyed and relieved. I saw a beam of light greeting me at the end of the tunnel. My mom wrote at the end of her Facebook post, "Feeling like a proud, accomplished, I must be doing something right, mommy." She deserved to feel the pride alongside me, knowing that our hard work paid off. Without my mom, I would not be who I am or where I am today, so thank you. This experience encouraged me to build an intimate relationship with the Lord and trust in Him with all my heart. As said in Jeremiah 29:11, "For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." I have been taught that God has an indestructible plan. He knew I would get held back long before we remotely found out, and was prepared to establish a game plan. His plans were and are only for our benefit. Getting held back was an educational gift. To anyone in the same boat, know that God has a beautiful plan mapped out for you. Trust in Him and remember that He will help everything fall into place. He is capable of fixing what is broken and turning it into something remarkable, just as He did for me. We have all been told that everything happens for a reason. Those reasons are God's plans and callings. It may be hard to decipher at first, but God will create an incredible transformation. Through the good, the bad, and the ugly, He is always with you.

It is safe to say that throughout the years, so much history has been made. To me, my mental health testimony is a chapter of my life story. At the tender age of three, I was diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Although I have no memory of the diagnosis, I could imagine and feel the worry my parents had for the future, especially when they informed me about the whole process. Balloons popping at a party, fireworks going off on the Fourth of July, thunderstorms brewing over us, and crowds cheering, resulted in a meltdown nearly every time. It was easier for me to get overstimulated than other children. Separation anxiety and social situations were also struggles. Even a family gathering was enough to lead to sensory overload. Despite vanquishing those fears, my mental health journey truly started in 5th grade. I developed high, almighty anxiety, which occurred almost daily. I was worried about things other students my age were not, and it was difficult to demystify where the anxiety stemmed from. Physical effects such as lethargy, fatigue, nausea, suppressed appetite, and weight loss emerged. I felt convinced that there was something medically wrong, despite no detection of health issues. Looking back, the real "health issue" was anxiety, but I only understood the basis of its functioning. In 6th grade, I felt less anxious and started to laugh and smile much more. I became hopeful that my mental health would revert to a happier status, or so I thought. 7th grade was when my mental state went downhill again, due to bullying. Even after speaking up and trying to find a solution, the bullying continued, which made me feel discouraged, belittled, and less than a human being. Oftentimes, I would cry in the bathroom at school, or as soon as I was home and felt safe. On many nights, I would cry myself to sleep. At that point, I knew enough was enough. My mom and I mutually agreed to consider counseling therapy. Since then, I have been seeing the same therapist at monthly sessions. She and I have built a nurturing, trusting, therapeutic relationship, making every visit with her enjoyable. Therapy has enabled more effective coping mechanisms for moments of intrusive thoughts and feelings. It has also encouraged growth and independence. Even though I still do not have the easiest times, the anxiety is not as dominant as it was before. A strong relationship with the Lord and therapy have helped me find light at the end of the tunnel. Having Autism and facing obstacles with my mental health have not cursed my life. If anything, they have molded me into the individual I am today and led to my current career aspiration. My dream is to become a Pediatric Mental Health Counselor. I specifically want to work with children and adolescents. An adjunct professor for psychology courses is also another potential goal. As a person, my journey has helped me become more empathetic, understanding, and open-minded toward others. I feel inspired to have a turn to advocate and counsel those in need. Educating yourselves and others on the significance is crucial. I am still learning. I am still growing. I am still evolving. I am still writing my story. To everyone reading from behind the screen, my friendly reminder is that you are strong, you are capable, you are beautiful, you are worthy, and you are loved. You matter so much to this world. As said in Matthew 19:26, With God, all things are possible.

Let's face it. I would be lying if I said that I live sustainably and do everything in my power to reduce my carbon footprint. I must be honest and admit that I need to do a better job to do so. When I look back at my second grade year, I remember learning the importance to reduce, reuse, and recycle. At the time, I could not see the difference it makes on the environment. As I got older, I finally understood how it can reduce the amount of waste and ultimately promote a healthier world. Sadly, my city stopped recycling about eight or more years ago, because that meant increased waste. On the way to the beach, I see a huge landfill and many homes not far from it. Every time I drive past it, I feel heartbroken for the people who live there. To a degree, I know that because we fill up our trash for pickup every week, we are partially contributing to the human impacts. However, even the smallest deeds can make a tremendous difference. For example, my great-grandmother and I uses to go on trash walks when I was a little girl. We would walk around her neighborhood to pick up trash we saw. Throughout high school, I participated in the Earth First Club, which was an environmental club. We did cleanups on the beach and the St. John's river. It felt rewarding to be doing the right thing for the world. During my freshman year of high school, I learned about sustainable living in my global perspectives class. One day, my teacher showed us a video about a humanitarian named Rob Greenfield, who used to own a tiny house in Orlando. The house was only 100 square feet, built for under 1500 dollars, and consisted of 99 percent repurposed, second-hand materials, while creating just about 30 pounds of trash. Not only that, but he had an outdoor kitchen, a propane camp stove, a biogas system for his cooking, and even outdoor toilets and showers. Rob is a vegetarian, grows the majority of his food and does not even drive a car. While it boggled my mind to see all those features, I felt inspired to inch the world away from climate change. My grandma Maria has been growing things in a garden and is passionate about living sustainably. I admire Rob's lifestyle and decided to share what I learned with her. After telling her about the video I watched, she proceeded to tell me that she once met Rob Greenfield. Meanwhile, he hosted an event in Orlando that I got to attend. It was an honor being able to meet him in person and learn so much from him. To this day, I continue to see his posts on social media and watch his videos on Youtube. Acquiring knowledge and following his tips on how to live a healthy, sustainable lifestyle gives me hope that I can spread awareness and make the world a better place. I hope to see Rob Greenfield anytime he is in the area again and continue to learn from him. I also dream to start making a difference at the university, such as putting up posters in bathrooms to encourage people to limit paper towel and toilet paper use, setting flyers around my school with facts about sustainability, and potentially inviting Rob Greenfield to Stetson to speak. Indeed, there is room for improvement. Nonetheless, we can all manifest in the best things possible, as long as we put our minds and dedication toward our goals.

Greetings! I am a first-generation college student studying psychology and anthropology. I am also a non-denominational Christian with a huge passion for serving the Lord. Spreading words of wisdom, giving advice, and reaching my goals keep me going. As said by Billy Cox, the two things in life you are in total control over are your attitude and effort. Unequivocally, your drive to achieve as well as your outlook on life and the world around you can dictate your overall performance. In other words, when we stay optimistic, trust in the Lord, and work hard, we are capable of making virtually any dream a reality. I firmly believe that through God, all things are possible. Day in and day out, I am eager to learn and better understand the complicated world we live in. I always try my best and apply myself in every area. I am not ashamed to showcase my strengths in my classes, at my on-campus job, and beyond. I hope that I can continue using my knowledge and expanding further on it. As a career, my dream is to become a Pediatric Mental Health Therapist. I have also thought about potentially specializing in faith-based therapy, for those who are seeking it. In the past, I faced obstacles with my mental health, leading me to attend monthly counseling sessions, which has promoted tremendous progress. I believe that what I went through helped me become more empathetic as an individual. This skill will enable me to step into someone else's shoes and feel from their frame of reference. Sharing my experiences with future clients can help them feel not alone in the world, knowing that someone understands. This is going to take time and dedication to accomplish, but I am willing to take the ride. Earning a master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling is one of the steps toward that goal. I have even thought about taking an extra year and a half to pursue a master's in Business Administration. This may allow me to open up my own practice. I have also thought about becoming an adjunct professor for psychology courses. I enjoyed how my professors taught the classes, inspiring me to educate future students. Matthew 19:26 says, "With God all things are possible." This speaks utter truth, because when you believe in the Lord and yourself with your heart and soul, you can conquer virtually anything you set your mind to. It is about trusting God, knowing that He is your backbone and has everything already mapped out.

5th grade was when my mental health journey began. I developed high, almighty anxiety that occurred almost daily. I was worried about things other children my age were not and it was difficult for me to control the intrusive thoughts. In the middle of 7th grade, I discovered that I was a victim of bullying. I did not have the easiest year with some of my peers, which took a toll on me mentally. I felt as though I went through a phase of mental relapse or regression. This time, I had possible depression. Almost every day, I would cry in the bathroom at school or as soon as I got home and felt safe. Many nights also involved hours of tears until I fell asleep. The bullying made me feel like a burden on my friends, teachers, and even my own family. Meanwhile, I started attending monthly therapy sessions. I am glad that I sought therapy and it was one of the best decisions made. Not only did my mental health improve, but therapy has helped me become more independent, empathetic, understanding, and open-minded as a person. To this day, I am still seeing the same therapist, with whom I have built a nurturing, trusting relationship. Therapy has helped me and so has God. Coming back to God has helped me find light and gain strength. Now, I live more faithfully, knowing that God is my backbone and that He is in control of all aspects. Although I still experience stress and anxiety, I have acquired effective coping mechanisms that make it more controllable. It is safe to say that I am much happier than I was during those times. Life and the world are not always going to adjust to me. I must continue to learn to adapt as much as possible. My mental health obstacles have not cursed my life. If anything, they have molded me into the individual I am today. They have increased my passion for destigmatizing mental health, leading to my career aspirations. After finishing college, my goal is to pursue a Master of Science degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Upon completion, I am considering taking an extra year and a half for a Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree. As a career, I want to become a Pediatric Mental Health Counselor. I specifically want to work with children and adolescents. This will give me a turn to advocate for those in a similar boat. Whenever someone opens up about a setback they face, it is easy for me to step into their shoes and understand their feelings from their frame of reference. I genuinely find enjoyment in actively listening and giving advice. Blessedly, our society is finally seeing the significance of poor mental health and taking action. Hotlines have been implemented, more mental services are available, and schools are allowing students to take mental health days when needed. There has been some massive improvement. At the same time, we still have a ways to go. It may be hard, but it will never be impossible. I firmly believe that God placed the hardships in my life to enrich my relationship and shine a light on everyone around me, especially through my future career. I am unapologetically transparent about the trials I faced and overcome.

From a worrier to a warrior. I am still young, learning, and growing, but so much history has been made in my short life. At the age of three, I was diagnosed with Autism. Despite having no remembrance, I could feel the anxiety and worry my parents told me they experienced. As a little girl, I had social and separation anxiety. I also feared things that were not as bothersome to other children, such as balloons popping, fireworks, thunderstorms, and sometimes loud cheering. I would cover my ears and hide whenever it got too loud in a room. Even a change in an environment or routine was a hassle. The overstimulation was real. Despite vanquishing the fears, I continued to struggle and experience anxiety. 5th grade was when my mental health journey began. I developed high, almighty anxiety that occurred almost daily. I was worried about things other children my age were not and it was difficult for me to control the intrusive thoughts. At that time, I began to sense a difference in myself and question who I was. However, I felt somewhat set apart from others long before. I became increasingly conscious of my oversensitivity and need for extra help in areas where most children require very little. Eventually, physical effects such as weight loss, nausea, and fatigue emerged. For a while, I felt convinced that something was medically wrong, even though health issues were not detected. Looking back, I realize it was all stemming from the anxiety, which was the true "health issue." I was still young and only knew so little about anxiety and mental health. During 6th grade, my anxiety began to improve. I laughed and smiled more than ever. Overall, I felt happy again. This gave me some hope that my mental health would return to where it was before, or so I thought. In the middle of 7th grade, I discovered that I was a victim of bullying. I did not have the easiest year with some of my peers, which took a toll on me mentally. I felt as though I went through a phase of mental relapse or regression. This time, I had possible depression. Almost every day, I would cry in the bathroom at school or as soon as I got home and felt safe. Many nights also involved hours of tears until I fell asleep. The bullying made me feel like a burden on my friends, teachers, and even my own family. I saw myself as a glass that was broken and shattered by negative forces. Meanwhile, I started attending monthly therapy sessions. I knew that if I did not do anything different along the way, I was only going to continue to fall and crack under pressure. I am glad that I sought therapy and it was one of the best decisions made. Not only did my mental health improve, but therapy has helped me become more independent, empathetic, understanding, and open-minded as a person. To this day, I am still seeing the same therapist, with whom I have built a nurturing, trusting relationship. Therapy has helped me and so has God. Coming back to God has helped me find light and gain strength. Now, I live more faithfully, knowing that God is my backbone and that He is in control of all aspects. Although I still experience stress and anxiety, I have acquired effective coping mechanisms that make it more controllable. It is safe to say that I am much happier than I was during those times. Life and the world are not always going to adjust to me. I must continue to learn to adapt as much as possible. My mental health obstacles have not cursed my life. If anything, they have molded me into the individual I am today. They have increased my passion for destigmatizing mental health, leading to my career aspirations. After finishing college, my goal is to pursue a Master of Science degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Upon completion, I am considering taking an extra year and a half for a Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree. As a career, I want to become a Pediatric Mental Health Counselor. I specifically want to work with children and adolescents. This will give me a turn to advocate for those in a similar boat. Whenever someone opens up about a setback they face, it is easy for me to step into their shoes and understand their feelings from their frame of reference. I genuinely find enjoyment in actively listening and giving advice. At the time I struggled, mental health was not being focused on as much as it is now, especially youth mental health. People have told me, "Don't worry about it," or "You're too young to be going through this," whenever I tried expressing my feelings. In all honesty, I found it unnecessary and disrespectful. Unequivocally, I felt taken aback and infuriated on the inside. My therapist has never once uttered those phrases. I would also never voice those words, because they can delegitimize those who are struggling. Every future client I encounter deserves to be treated with respect and ultimately feel heard. Blessedly, our society is finally seeing the significance of poor mental health and taking action. Hotlines have been implemented, more mental services are available, and schools are allowing students to take mental health days when needed. There has been some massive improvement. At the same time, we still have a ways to go. It may be hard, but it will never be impossible. I firmly believe that God placed the hardships in my life to enrich my relationship and shine a light on everyone around me, especially through my future career. I am unapologetically transparent about the trials I faced and overcome. If I had the opportunity, I would turn back to comfort, reassure, and educate my younger self. Once again, from a worrier to a warrior.

Greetings! My name is Jordan Cruz. I am a first-generation college student studying Psychology and Anthropology at Stetson University. I aspire to be a Pediatric Mental Health Counselor and potentially an Adjunct Professor. In May 2024, I will be graduating, which is mind-boggling. It feels as though my high school graduation was yesterday. Nonetheless, that does not mean my journey will be over. Post-graduation, I hope to take two to three years to complete the Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CMHC) program at Stetson. This will allow me to earn a Master of Science degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Afterward, I am considering dedicating an extra year and a half at Stetson to pursue a Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree. Achieving this goal can open numerous doors for excellent jobs. In a way, this can enable a backup plan for me. In essence, I dream of holding a double master's. It is safe to say that this will take time and patience to accomplish, but I am willing to make the dream a reality. If I were given the choice to jump straight into a job or take additional years to achieve higher degrees, I would choose to accommodate more time for a fulfilling education and career. As a Non-denominational Christian, I have been taught that God has greater plans and timing, leading me to believe that He has called me to take this route. Following graduation, I will have some student loans to pay down. To prevent high debt, I will maintain an optimal GPA, which can authorize me to apply for scholarships with high amounts and make further loans avoidable. Currently, I work in the Career and Professional Development (CaPD) department and it is an enjoyable job. As of right now, my rigorous class schedule only allows me to work up to 10 hours per week. After each paycheck, I set some money aside in my savings account, exclusively for school and emergencies. Furthermore, I hope to hold a position as a Graduate Assistant and stay specifically in the Career and Professional Development department. If that happens, the cost of two classes each semester can be fully covered. Unequivocally, this is also a surefire way to deflect the accumulation of debt before it remotely starts. If I were to receive the scholarship, it would erase most to all of my debt before my graduate school journey concludes. I want to say a huge thank you to the scholarship donors for this incredible scholarship opportunity. Your kindness, selflessness, and generosity will make a tremendous impact on the world. I am proud of what I have overcome, flourished, and unboxed. I look forward to seeing the future unfold. As said in Matthew 19:26, with God, all things are possible.

Being a first-generation college student living in a single-parent and low-income household makes me unique. In a way, I am set apart from some of my peers. After all, I am just like every college student out there. One of the challenges I faced was needing to repeat third grade. That was because I did not pass the standardized tests required for me to move on to fourth grade right away. The news was a hard pill for my mom and me to swallow. I remember feeling overwhelmed and concerned about what the future had in store for me. Nonetheless, we made sure to stay optimistic and have a good attitude. My mom had considered getting a new job. However, that changed after learning that an extra year in third grade was needed for me, especially since I struggled during the first year. She selflessly decided to become a stay-at-home mom, which allowed her to work with me one-on-one during homework assignments and projects. Although that meant waiting longer for a job the sacrifice was well worth it and will never be taken for granted. Meanwhile, the end of the school year was approaching, and my teacher gave us the news that I passed the standardized tests and was eligible to move up to fourth grade. Needless to say, we were overjoyed and thankful. I could visualize a beam of light greeting me at the end of the tunnel. My mom immediately made a post on Facebook announcing the great news. At the end of her post, she wrote, "Feeling like a proud, accomplished, I'm doing something right mommy." Not only did I work hard, but so did my mom. She deserved to feel the pride and joy alongside me. I am grateful for her and the wonderful support network I had at the time and will continue to have. In the future, I plan to use this experience to help others overcome setbacks that come from the supernatural force that we call life. Obstacles that come our way are inevitable. Everyone has faced stumbling blocks at some point. Some are obvious and others are more discreet. We are all superheroes with unique gifts. All it takes is strength to put on our personal armor and cape to resist the negative force and meet goals. I hope to teach people that regardless of the obstacles, you are capable of conquering virtually anything you set your mind to.

As a student, mental health is crucial, because it can dictate how you do day in and day out. We must take our physical health into account to ensure that there are no issues that can potentially be an interference. If we are sick, the right answer would be to refrain from leaving the house and quarantine ourselves until we fully recover. This is a rule that has been instilled in us since elementary school. But what about our mental health? Sadly, mental health does not get the recognition and respect it deserves. It is not taken with enough seriousness and needs to be destigmatized. Many schools and universities offer opportunities for students to learn how to administer CPR. What if more schools allowed students to learn how to help someone in a mental health crisis, whether it is a loved one, acquaintance, or even a stranger? Most people get an annual physical from a primary doctor. This means checking vitals and referring people to appropriate specialists or testing when concerns arise. What if people had a chance to get a yearly mental health evaluation by a professional? During 5th and 7th grade, I was one of the people who faced mental health obstacles. I sought therapy, which has helped my mental health improve tremendously. Looking back, mental health was being talked about as much as it is now, especially youth mental health. This shows that mental health is finally getting more awareness, which is a small step but in the right direction. Schools are allowing people to take mental health days when they need to, hotlines have been implemented, and there are more mental health services available. As a society, there is still room for improvement. It may not be easy, but it will certainly never be impossible. I advocate for mental health by posting mental health reminders on my Instagram story, in hopes that I can spread awareness. We cannot just sit and wait for a change to appear. It is only up to us to make a difference and meet the future goals. To those facing rough patches, please know that you are never alone. There are people out there who are willing to help you, so never feel ashamed to seek intervention. It is also okay to take a break. You are beautiful, you are strong, you are capable, you are worthy, and you are loved!

Greetings! My name is Jordan Cruz. I am an undergraduate student studying psychology and anthropology. On a more personal level, I was diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder at the age of three. From there, I went through years of speech and occupational therapy. Early intervention helped me progress, which has brought me to where I am today. Although having Autism has made me feel insecure at times, I constantly remind myself that everyone is different. We would live in a boring world if we were all the same. The bottom line is nobody is perfect. In fact, one of my wonderful therapists told me, "Perfection does not exist." I could not agree more with that statement, because there is no such thing as total normality. Having Autism may mean having somewhat peculiar qualities, but it does not mean having less capability. Therefore, I tell myself that I am not disabled, but differently-abled alongside everyone. As a career, I hope to become a pediatric mental health counselor and potentially an adjunct professor. I genuinely enjoy working with neurodivergent people and guaranteeing the most fulfilling life possible for them. I hope to have a turn to advocate by sharing what I learned.

My visualization of success is mapping out short-term, medium-term, and long-term goals to help me reach my full potential. This means continuing to prosper academically as I advance in my education. Staying successful also looks like maintaining optimal health and making smart financial decisions. Here are some examples. As a college student, high grades are crucial. To help me achieve that, I complete given coursework, turn it in on time, and study whenever I have a test or quiz coming up. Education is one of the many things I take seriously in my life. Day in and day out, I show effort and an eagerness to learn. Taking notes and asking questions when I need clarification encourages my mind to absorb all the important material like a sponge. Regarding finances, I pay close attention to how much I spend every week. I constantly remind myself not to spend money on things that are not needed. Although I work an on-campus part-time job and occasionally splurge, I consider myself frugal. The only things I consistently spend money on are food and gas. Without food, my mind and body will not function properly. Without gas, there is no other way I can drive myself to campus or other places. This may sound rudimentary, but it shows why needs must come first. Furthermore, I have a credit card and am incredibly careful with how much I use it. The bottom line is that when you overly rely on your credit card, you are at risk of winding up in credit card debt. It is one of those situations that is easy to get into and hard to get out of. As a preventative measure, my credit card is used for small purchases, especially if I do not already have enough money for something right away. Meanwhile, I ensure that my full balance is paid on time. I am enrolled in auto-pay, which means that on the due date, the monthly balance is automatically paid. I have not missed a single payment nor had a late payment. Those are habits I will make sure to convey in life to keep good financial health. Finally, ensuring that my mental and physical health remains on a stable path is vital. This is what will keep me going in all areas of life. After a long day, I take some time to recharge, evaluate myself, and have a break, especially if I am having a hard time. If I feel under the weather, I will follow the rule by staying home and resting until I fully recover. During those scenarios, everything else is secondary and the only thing that matters is my health. Once I feel better, I make a to-do list of what needs to be fulfilled and keep going until every task is finished. If I were to receive this scholarship, it will help me financially in graduate school. I want to give a special thanks to the donor for generously and selflessly providing this wonderful scholarship opportunity. It will truly make a difference for students, in hopes they can follow their dreams with little to no financial barriers.

A woman in my life who has inspired and supported me throughout my education is my mother. When I was nine years old, we learned that I needed to repeat third grade. That was because I did not pass the required standardized tests to move on to fourth grade. The news was a hard pill for us to swallow. I could not immediately envision what the future had in store for me. Nonetheless, we did our best to keep our heads held high, be optimistic, and not let getting held back in third grade hold us back from the future. Before finding out, my mom sat on the thought of getting a new job. However, that immediately changed after realizing that I was going through another year of third grade. She selflessly decided to wait a bit longer to get a job, so she could stay home and work one-on-one with me for homework, projects, and reading. Although that meant becoming a stay-at-home mom, the sacrifice was well worth it and will never be taken for granted. If I were to step in my mom's shoes, I could only imagine and understand that making this decision did not come easy. Let's face it. Not everything was a piece of cake for us. We had moments of stress and frustration running high and overcoming us, resulting in tears. In the end, we hugged it out, turned it around, and reverted to more positive, productive, and independent thinking. I made sure to never stop working hard nor lose my love for learning. The end of the school year was approaching, which meant it was standardized testing season, as teachers and faculty called it. I remember feeling nervous about what the content would be like and more importantly, the scores I would make. Meanwhile, my teacher informed us that I had passed the standardized tests and was promoted to fourth grade. Needless to say, we were overjoyed and relieved about what we heard. The hard work and dedication paid off for us. My mom included at the end of her Facebook post, "Feeling like a proud, accomplished, I'm doing something right mommy." She deserved to feel the pride alongside me because it is abundantly clear that she did indeed do something right for me. Her effort showed so much. I was young at the time and did not understand what was happening, but now I can see the big picture. My mom deserves all the accolades and praise for everything she has done for me and continues to do for me.

Currently, I am the secretary of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes Club (FCA) at my university. My main responsibilities include sending out emails, putting together song slides, and presenting song slides at huddles. I make sure to maintain open communication with my leadership team and the FCA members. It is safe to say that I have gone full circle. I was an FCA officer during my senior year of high school. Now, I am a senior in college holding the secretary position. In a way, it almost feels like a tradition. Nonetheless, it is an honor to be managing a club I am incredibly passionate about during the most bittersweet academic years. In addition, I am also a member of the Omicron Delta Kappa Leadership Honor Society. Although I am not an officer, I show the skill of mentorship. I gave students information about the club at the involvement fair before the applications opened. I also give new members support, guidance, and advice about the club. One of the rules is to earn the graduation cord, members must keep up with a 12-point system throughout each semester. Luckily, there are many ways to achieve that goal. This means attending chapter meetings and helping out at events. Even external actions such as studying abroad, interning, getting a job, and applying for graduate school also qualify for points. One of the time-management skills I use to balance the activities and schooling is prioritizing. If some upcoming meetings or events conflict with academic-related circumstances, I critically think about what's most important. This means analyzing what will be taking place and from there deciding on what's best. I have always been taught that your academics must come first. Everything else is secondary. When I do have spare time, that's when I think about tasks that I need to complete for either of the clubs I'm in. From there, I will focus on getting done what is needed. I also work an on-campus job. Even though it serves convenience, that is another thing I put before everything else, alongside academics. If some events or meetings interfere with when I work, I will nicely explain that I have to work and I will be happy to stay informed at the same time. To an extent, I know that I must set limits so I do not add unnecessary stress. Overloading yourself with things that are not needed only does more harm. That's why we must carefully evaluate and make decisions.

Greetings! My name is Jordan. I am a first-generation college student studying psychology and anthropology. Ultimately, I want to become a Career Counselor or a Pediatric Mental Health Counselor. I have a strong passion for actively listening to others, providing assistance, and giving advice. It is safe to say that I have faced obstacles with my mental health in the past. From developing high anxiety in 5th grade to getting bullied in 7th grade and possibly having depression, to finally getting therapy, it has been quite a journey. During those years, I was at my lowest when virtually nobody knew. Oftentimes, I would wear a smile on my face like makeup to mask my true feelings. The thought of people worrying about me made me worried. Going to therapy has led to tremendous improvement and was one of the best decisions I made. To this day, I am still seeing the same therapist. Nonetheless, my therapist and I have built a good, trusting, and nurturing relationship that I would not want any other way. Her expertise, open-mindedness, warmth, and words of wisdom have enabled growth. The biggest thing she told me is that perfection does not exist. If there were perfection in the world, therapy would not be a profession. I feel inspired to have a turn to advocate. My experience has enabled me to step into other people's shoes and be empathetic, patient, and non-confrontational. Anytime someone opens up to me about a hardship they face, I can let them know that I understand the stress, anxiety, and frustration. This can help clients feel not alone and unashamed of their struggles. Every client deserves to be treated with respect and ultimately feel heard. I have discovered that mental health needs to be destigmatized. Looking back, mental health, especially in youth, was not talked about as much as it is now. This shows that there has been some progress, which gives us hope for the future. As a society, we still have a ways to go in meeting the goal and it will not always be easy. Nonetheless, that does not mean it will be impossible. The keys to breaking the stigma are spreading awareness, evaluating ourselves, looking after others, and taking action in serious situations. To anyone out there with mental struggles, my friendly reminder is you are beautiful, you are strong, you are capable, and you are loved!

As a college student, I find that when my mental state is in a healthy place, I feel motivated and in turn productive. This enables me to prioritize, use my time-management skills, and ultimately get important duties done. From there, I can maintain high academics, as a result of studying for quizzes or tests, as well as completing assignments and turning them in on time. Regarding my personal life, staying happy and successful allows me to maintain good, trusting, and nurturing relationships with everyone around me, even an acquaintance. This is because having a stable mentality encourages me to keep enjoying everyone's company and spreading kindness. It also helps me continue to actively listen and engage in conversations, so people around me can feel heard and included. I prioritize my mental health by first evaluating what state I'm in. I think about how I feel, how my day went, what happened, and the potential course of action I can take, especially if a difficult day brings me down. If my anxiety is high, I will message my therapist to get advice or vent to my parents, family members, or close friends. Maintaining a strong support network reminds me that there will always be someone there to help me. Other coping strategies that help me relax and get my mind off of stressors are lying outside on the hammock, listening to my favorite songs, taking a hot bath, and even thinking of funny things that lead to laughter. Furthermore, I am also very spiritual. Activities I'll do include praying, reading the Bible, listening to worship music, or watching motivational Christian-related videos. This encourages me to continue remaining faithful and trusting in the Lord. The Bible explicitly tells us not to worry. For example, the verse from Philippians 4:6-7 says, "Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." Knowing that the Lord will protect me gives me peace. All it takes is to be patient and still. There is nothing worth more than your mental health. If there is one big takeaway to receive from this essay, it would be that it is okay to take a break. Make time for yourself to practice self-care. Also, ask yourself how you are doing, just as you would to an individual. Wellness is primary and everything else is secondary.

Greetings! I am a first-generation college student living in a single-parent household. Let's face it. Not everything came easy, as with any student, especially those in the same boat. Life and the world are not always going to adjust to our needs and desires. As my therapist told me, perfection does not exist. Therefore, we all have obstacles that we must overcome. Some are obvious while others are more discreet. Although both of my parents are in my life, I give my mom so much credit. When I was nine, we found out towards the end of the school year that I needed to repeat third grade. That was because I did not pass the standardized tests required to move on to fourth grade immediately. It was a hard pill for us to swallow, but I wanted to have a good attitude. My mom sat on the thought of a new job for quite a while. However, she selflessly decided to commit to being a stay-at-home mom, so she could sit down with me one-on-one while I did homework, reading lessons, and projects. Even though that meant not having a job, the sacrifice she made for me was well worth it and will never be taken for granted. Things were not always easy for us. We had moments of emotions running high and overcoming us, resulting in tears. Nonetheless, we made sure to turn it around, persevere, and revert to more positive, productive, and independent thinking. We hugged it out and chanted, "Tomorrow is a new day." All the hard work paid off for us in the end. Meanwhile, my teacher informed us that I passed the standardized tests and was eligible for fourth grade. Needless to say, we were beyond overjoyed and relieved. I envisioned a beam of light greeting and cheering for me at the end of the tunnel. My mom proceeded to make a Facebook post and her last line said, "Feeling like a proud, accomplished, I'm doing something right mommy." Unequivocally, she was doing something right and deserved to feel the pride and have that recognition alongside me. As a career, I want to get into the field of counseling. I firmly believe that the setbacks I have overcome helped me become strong-willed yet empathetic and optimistic. It has enabled me the ability to step into other people's shoes and help them feel not alone. I hope to convey those skills in the future.

I am an aspiring Pediatric Mental Health Counselor. I have a huge passion for advocacy and destigmatizing mental health. This would look like working specifically with children and adolescents by verbally guiding them through the curveballs that come from the supernatural force called life. I value actively listening and in turn, counseling others by giving advice. To me, open-mindedness, kindness, honesty, and empathy are the most important qualities to convey, especially in my future career. I have faced obstacles with my mental health in the past. I firmly believe that what I went through has encouraged me to be more patient and understanding as an individual. It has not cursed my life, but it has only enabled growth and healing. This will enable me to take a moment to step into the shoes of future clients, whenever someone I encounter opens up about a mentally cumbersome situation. It will give me a chance to pretend that I am the client and imagine the feelings that I would have in the particular situation. Of course, everyone goes through different obstacles. Some of them are obvious and others are more dim. Even if I hear about something that has not happened to me before, I can increase and use the power to share words and wisdom and provide support. Nonetheless, finding ways to relate can help people feel not alone in the world and unashamed of the struggles they face. Sadly, many people feel isolated and possibly even inferior because of what they are facing. In turn, they may also feel ashamed and at fault for what happened. Life can be cruel and having a mental illness is equivalent to catching a cold. The truth is, it is never your fault and you can't help it. Mental health does not care how blissful someone's life is. Although it sounds rudimentary, there is no other way we can use our sense of hearing besides our ears. Having ears is the only way for that to happen. Sometimes, all it takes is an open, listening ear to help someone feel important and valued. Also saying something along the lines of, "I completely hear you," can say a lot. You are showing that because you can register the words someone utters and show your open mind, you understand what is being said. Finally, every client deserves to be treated with respect and ultimately feel heard.

Greetings! I am a psychology major and an aspiring Pediatric Mental Health Counselor. Throughout my whole life, I have grown up with cats. However, I am specifically dedicating my application to my very first pet cat. Her name was Ringo and her name was probably the most suitable. She was named after Ringo Star, a member of The Beatle's band and had a white-colored ring around her neck, hence the name. She had fiery red-orange hair and gorgeous yellow-green eyes that looked like rays of sunshine. Truly, she was a ray of sunshine. Along with her beautiful looks, she had a charming personality. By far, she was the best furry companion my mother and I could have ever asked for. From her sweet kisses, cuddles, rubs, and paws gently wrapped around my wrist, she was one of a kind. When she first joined the family, she was a kitten and I was a toddler. Before then, she lived at my grandma's house for a short time. She was the daughter of one of my grandma's cats she had in the past. Her all-time favorite place was my bed. The moment I stepped foot into my bedroom, the first thing I saw was Ringo gracefully lying and sleeping. She could be equated to a stuffed animal because there was virtually no other place she favored. There were also nights when she would sleep right next to my head. Sometimes, I would wake up in the middle of the night to her walking into my room and then jumping onto my bed to sleep with me. Whether it is a pet, family member, friend, or initial acquaintance, Ringo has taught me that one day, you will encounter a living being who will never leave your side. Unfortunately, she got diagnosed with diabetes right before the pandemic hit and had to get put down in September of 2021. She declined very suddenly and we knew it was time to bring a peaceful end to her life. We did not want to see her suffer any more than she already did. Since then, our home has not been the same without her. Nonetheless, I know her legacy will continue to live on forevermore, as she lived a long, beautiful 17 years. I am grateful that God blessed us with such an amazing and unforgettable pet. I would not have wanted my first pet any other way.

Although I am not much of a movie or TV watcher, there is one movie that was truly moving and inspiring to me. If I could only watch one movie for the rest of my life, it would have to be My Octopus Teacher. It is a film that documents a year spent by filmmaker Craig Foster forging a relationship with a wild common octopus in a kelp forest in South Africa. This movie won the Best Documentary Feature award at the 93rd Academy Awards. I had never seen such a unique and empowering relationship between a human and a creature in the ocean before. To me, that is what genuinely makes the movie stand out and be set apart in a sense. It all started when Craig began free-diving in a cold underwater kelp forest at a remote location in False Bay, which is near Cape Town, South Africa. This was located close to Simon's Town on the Cape Peninsula, which is exposed to the Benguela Current of the Atlantic Ocean. One day, Craig encountered a curious, attention-grabbing octopus in the ocean. Meanwhile, they start to form an intimate relationship, as Craig follows the octopus around for almost a year. That is when they build a strong bond in which the octopus plays with Craig and allows him into their world to discover the lifestyle. The octopus is frequently defending itself against pyjama sharks. In one attack, the octopus lost its arm and retreated to its den to recover. Over three months, the arm regenerated. In a later shark attack, the octopus had remarkable creativity to survive, including lying on the shark's back. Unfortunately, it lost its life while tending to the eggs after mating. Then, a shark scavenged and carried off the dead body. Nonetheless, the movie shows the strength, determination and mentorship-like relationship between the octopus and Craig. This taught him the fragility of life and humanity's connection with nature. My dad had shown me the movie and that is when I instantly fell in love. Because I was so captivated by all the dynamics, I decided to play the movie at a get-together with my close group of friends. All of them felt compelled and moved alongside me. I will forever be grateful that I was introduced to the movie. I am also glad that I allowed myself to give the movie a watch. I hope and pray that the movie gets the large audience it deserves.

I have chosen to pursue education because I want to help destigmatize mental health. I know in my heart that sitting there and waiting for that societal goal is not the answer. It will not be handed to us. Nonetheless, because mental health is something I am extremely passionate about, I am willing to work for that ambition and ultimately make the world a better place. As a career, I want to become a Pediatric Mental Health Counselor and specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. Furthermore, I am a non-denominational Christian, so spiritual counseling is another area I am considering. After facing some obstacles with my mental health in the past, I found light at the end of the tunnel through religion and therapy. I have been given wonderful spiritual advice from pastors, ministers, and people in my church that has helped me grow mentally and spiritually. I hope to spread those words and wisdom to future clients so they can potentially accomplish the same outcome. As a first-generation college student, I firmly believe that God established his plan for me to be set apart in a way. Not only will I be the first to earn a bachelor's degree, but I am also the youngest to hold a college degree in general. This is because I finished high school last year with my Associate of Arts degree from my local state college. What I did was dual enrollment, which involved taking college and high school classes simultaneously. I started in the spring of my sophomore year of high school and graduated with the degree. Let's face it. This commitment did not always come easy for me. There were numerous weekends I had to dedicate to complete schoolwork. However, every action big and small was worth it in the end. The moment I took the stage to accept my diploma, I very quickly thought about every final course grade, every hour spent, every tear shed, every class lecture, every goal met, every test passed, every speech given, every paper written, every PowerPoint put together, and every assignment submitted before 11:59 p.m. Deciding to take on dual enrollment truly prepared me for my current journey. I feel a natural, internal drive that tells me to keep going. Despite every hardship, I persevered and showed tenacity, which allowed me to meet my goal. Conveying those characteristics will be beneficial from this point forward. I consider myself a strong-willed, hard-headed, go-getter, lets-doit individual. I feel a strong desire to make my dreams a reality. While I give myself a small, gentle nudge when needed, I make sure to practice self-care. Taking some time to recharge and set things aside helps me regain motivation, even after a long day. I value having an adequate balance, so I am not hindered from taking in the simple pleasures and doing enjoyable things. The truth is, it is okay to take a break. Once I earn my four-year degree, I will feel more prepared for graduate school. I still have a long way to go, but I am determined to take on life-long learning and hard work. To anyone who has a major goal, please know that you are capable of conquering virtually anything that you put your mind to. Trust in the Lord, stay positive, and never give up.

The biggest piece of advice that I have been given is don't spend money on things you don't need. Although this money lesson sounds basic, it is incredibly important to apply it to your life right now and in the future. Many things can happen when you spend money on things that are not necessary. The difference between needs and wants is very distinctive. Examples of needs are food, water, shelter and insurance. They are imperative for your health and safety. Wants are expenses that buyers choose to buy, but can comfortably live without. This could mean traveling, dining out, you name it. My great-grandmother always lived frugally and was conscious of how much she spent each month. This has inspired me to budget, watch how much I spend, and set money aside for urgent circumstances. In fact, my emergency money is stored in a small compartment in my car. The truth is, you could wind up in a sticky situation and not know. That is why we should be mentally and in turn, financially prepared for anything to happen. One of the biggest risks of overspending on wants is ending up in credit card debt. This happens when you spend more money on your credit card than you can remotely pay back via your external banking account. Unfortunately, the chances of forgiveness from lenders are low, which is why you should be careful. According to the latest Quarterly Report on Household Debt and Credit, total household debt rose by $16 billion to reach $15.06 trillion in the second quarter of 2023. This can be equivalent to taking out a loan, simply because you are spending money that does not directly belong to you. I am a commuter and work on campus, so the main things I spend money on are food and gas. Gas is needed to get me to campus and other places and food is needed to maintain adequate nutrition. Here and there, it is okay to splurge and treat yourself. Money for expensive things that are not needed also gets set aside. For example, if I want to get my hair done, I plan in advance and gradually save hard-earned money until there's enough. Or if there is an expensive outfit I want, the same strategy is followed. Nonetheless, everything else for me is secondary. I don't need to have all kinds of fancy clothes or shoes to bring fulfillment. All I need is a good education and to stay happy and healthy. A penny saved is a penny earned.

I am a psychology major and an aspiring Pediatric Mental Health Counselor. Being an individual who has faced mental health obstacles and has been a client in therapy, I feel inspired to have the turn to advocate for those in similar situations. My mental health journey started in 5th grade. Looking back, it was a time when mental health, especially in youth, was not being talked about as much. At the time, I experienced high, almighty anxiety nearly every day. Despite how normalized the anxiety felt for me, it was excruciatingly cumbersome on many days. Eventually, physical effects such as fatigue, lethargy, nausea, and weight loss emerged as a result of the constant stress. When I entered middle school, my mental health appeared to have improved. I started to smile and laugh far more than I did in 5th grade. I became optimistic that my mental state would be in a better place, or so I thought. In the middle of 7th grade, I discovered that I was being bullied, which took a toll on me mentally. It felt like a repeat episode of 5th grade, but worse. Oftentimes, I would cry in the bathroom at school or as soon as I got home and felt safe. There were many nights I cried myself to sleep because I felt less than a person. Not only that but there were moments I would dread going to school, afraid of how people would treat me. It became abundantly clear to my parents that I was struggling. That is when I finally expressed my interest in counseling to them. Although it took time and courage, I could tell they were caring, nurturing, and happy to help me. It was a thought I sat on for a while until I realized enough was enough. Therapy has not only improved my mental health but enabled personal growth. I firmly believe that all of what I faced has molded me into the individual I am today. I have become more empathetic, patient, understanding, and open-minded. Anytime someone opens up to me about challenges they face, I take a moment to step inside their shoes and imagine myself facing the same setback. Even if it is something I may not relate to, I do my best to show that I can feel the sadness, frustration, and potential anger. I hope to help future clients feel not alone, especially when sharing my experience. I also want to teach others that you should not feel ashamed. A mental illness can be equivalent to having a cold. It is far out of your control and not your fault. The truth is, you can't help it. From anxiety, depression, schizophrenia, and other disorders, mental health does not care how blissful your life is. My story could come as a shock to some, especially people I know. Nonetheless, nobody is immune. It did not matter how often I had wonderful birthday parties, congregated with family, took time to see good friends and engaged in the simple pleasures. My friendly reminder to those out there struggling with any mental stumbling blocks, please know that you are never alone. You are so much more than what you are currently facing. You are beautiful, you are strong, you are loved, and you are capable of conquering virtually anything that you put your mind to.

My favorite aspect of Minecraft is the soft music and natural sounds. Minecraft is by far the most quiet, relaxing game that I have ever played. It deeply resonates with me, because during 5th grade, I struggled with high, almighty anxiety nearly every day. Anytime I was home, had no plans, and caught my anxiety intensifying, I would turn to the video game for comfort and tranquility. From the elaborate architecture to the gorgeous countryside, the possibilities are virtually endless in the game and it truly encouraged me to use my imagination. It gave me the chance to take a moment to set everything aside and distract myself from the stressors, which was therapeutic. Honestly, I thrive in quiet environments with little to no noise, mainly when it comes to completing school work, projects, or simply studying. However, I also enjoy listening to my favorite songs while doing chores to keep me motivated. What makes Minecraft a well-rounded game is that it has a combination of both restfulness and liveliness. Regarding personality, I am an ambivert, simply because I enjoy having a social life while also being a homebody. Minecraft is sort of a visual of those attributes. I would not have wanted the game to be any other way.

In March of 2021, my mom and I had a loved one tragically pass away. His name was Tony, who was her partner for a while and a father to precious twin boys. From meeting him for the first time to seeing a beautiful relationship blossom, he was like a second father to me. He was one of the funniest people I knew who always had a corny joke to get me giggling. One day, my mom and I decided to go out for ice cream. On the way home, my mom gets a call from her friend who was also close to Tony. When I saw my mom crying and overheard her friend say Tony's name, I knew from the get-go that it could not be good. Although I had an idea of what happened, I could not pay much attention since I was driving. As soon as we got home, my mom broke the news to me. The moment she enunciated the words, "Tony died," I could not believe my ears. I immediately broke down in utter devastation and tears streamed down my face like waves. This was the stage of denial and disbelief. It felt equivalent to a pill difficult to swallow. He and my mom talked on the phone and scheduled a time to meet for tacos several days prior. It was mind-boggling to know a plan was made and the next thing you know, he is gone. My heart broke for my mom, his children, parents, family, and everyone else who knew him. Needless to say, it was excruciatingly painful, considering how sudden and unexpected the death was. Meanwhile, we all found out the cause of his death. Without going into grave detail, the cause was easily preventable and avoidable. As a result, I felt fury fill me from head to toe. This was the stage of anger and bargaining. I thought to myself, "Why did this have to happen?" He was so young and did not deserve to die. Everyone else who found out felt outraged. I never felt mad after death before. Deep down in my heart, I also felt like there was so much I could have done differently. However, I also knew that his death was far out of our control. My mom started going to grief counseling and I opened up to my therapist about everything that happened. Therapy enabled us to work through the grieving process. I decided to walk at a snail's pace, meaning going one day at a time to find my closure. I also got prayers from my loving church family, which gave me comfort and peace. Eventually, I reached the stage of acceptance. I made sure to remind myself that there is nothing we could do to bring Tony back and he is in a better place. I trusted in God through it all and knew that we will never be alone. Since I graduated high school last year with an associate of arts degree and am now on my way to my bachelor's degree at a prestigious university, I know how proud he would be. He loved his boys and loved me like his own child. He always wished the best for us and cherished our success. I feel an internal drive to keep making my dreams a reality, especially after some advice he has given me. Even when things feel cumbersome, I am willing to continue fighting for what I want in the future. As a career, I want to become a Pediatric Mental Health Counselor. Through that job, I want to educate clients on the stages of grief and what they can do to navigate death. I hope to pass on the words of wisdom that I have gotten from my therapist. To those out there who have lost a loved one, please remember that you are never alone in the world. You are strong, you are beautiful, you are loved, you are capable, and God has divine plans awaiting your reach.

My favorite fall-inspired drink from Starbucks is the Pumpkin Spice Frappuccino. There is sugar and spice and everything nice in one drink. I love the sweetness with a slightly strong flavor at the same time. This is one of the many reasons why fall is my favorite season. It is something I look forward to every year. Since I know that this drink will only be available for a limited time, I do my best to enjoy it while I can, even if it is just one time. Once it is officially gone, that means needing to wait a whole year. The pumpkin spice encourages me to spice things up in a way. To me, that means going out of my comfort zone, changing my course and trying something new or incorporating things that I may not be initially used to. That could mean trying a different kind of food or drink from one of my favorite restaurants, including Starbucks. I try to be adventurous by trying things that may not be familiar to me. I have always been told you never know unless you try, which is true. You are not going to know what the experience is like and the only way to find out is to do it. This is how this drink has become a character in my own fall narrative. Nonetheless, it brings back many memories that took courage, regardless of the time of year. For example, at my last chorus concert, I bared my soul for my peers and audience to see by doing a solo. I had never sung, danced, or even spoken by myself on stage. What I did was play Life of the Party by Shawn Mendes on the grand piano and sang the song at the same time. Needless to say, I was extremely nervous, considering I had many piano keys and lyrics to memorize. Although I had a couple of small mess-ups, I started to breathe and become more confident. Sure some parts were not perfect, but I believed in myself throughout the entire performance and kept a smile on my face. The moment I finished, the entire audience cheered, which reminded me that I did do something right. I was a senior in high school, so I really wanted to have the opportunity and I will forever be grateful for it. As a little kid, I was incredibly shy and a picky eater. Nonetheless, I have come out of my shell. I am still a work in progress, as with everyone. Since I am still young, I am willing to continue to grow and learn.

As a first-generation college student, I firmly believe that God is sending me to make history in my family. Since starting high school, I have made sure that college would be my next stop after graduation. Not only that, but I was also set on committing to dual enrollment and graduating high school with an associate's degree. 8th grade was when I learned about dual enrollment, so it was a thought I sat on for a while. I made sure to deeply weigh out the pros and cons, especially after getting advice from some people. My sophomore year of high school is when I officially started the path. Lo and behold, I got to graduate with not one, but two diplomas. This was a dream I proudly made a reality. Although things did not always come easy for me, I made sure to show effort, study hard, complete my coursework on time, and ultimately maintain high academics. Sometimes that meant dedicating weekends to get homework finished. I constantly reminded myself to stay focused, even when you are genuinely tired of it, and just keep fighting for what you want. Every action, big and small, was worthwhile and helped me advance in my education. Currently, I am the youngest in the family to be holding a two-year degree. Because of that, I will be the youngest to hold a full-fledged bachelor's degree. Some may think that I am set apart in a way. Nonetheless, I believe that God has me set apart for great reasons. This gave me an epiphany of the verse from 1 Corinthians 1:30 which says, "But of Him you are in Christ Jesus, who became for us wisdom from God and righteousness and sanctification and redemption." Furthermore, I believe that God has different plans for everyone. He established the plans for us far before he even formed us in the womb. What God has in store for us is indestructible. This led me to discover the verse from Proverbs 19:21 which says, "Many are the plans in a person's heart, but it is the Lord's purpose that prevails." The truth is, the Lord knows what is best for us. He knows us even more than we may think we know ourselves. He knew that I would be a first-generation college student and it was a part of his plan. He can read every individual like a book. I still have a ways to go toward my ambitions, but I am eager to see the plans God has mapped out for me.

My name is Jordan Cruz. I am a first-generation college student living in a single-parent household. Currently, I am studying psychology and anthropology at Stetson University. Although both of my parents are in my life, the most influential individual would be my mother. At the time I was nine, we learned that I needed to repeat third grade. That was because I did not pass the standardized tests that were required for me to move on to fourth grade. Unequivocally, it was one of the hardest pills for us to swallow. It was hard for me to envision how my future would unfold. Nonetheless, we made sure to stay optimistic and have a good attitude. Before then, my mom had thought about getting a new job, but that changed after finding out I was being held back. She made the selfless decision to stay home and wait on a job. This allowed her to work with me one-on-one when I had homework, projects, reading, and studying to do. The sacrifice was well worth it and will never get taken for granted. Let's face it. Things did not always come easy. We had our fair share of moments of emotions running high and frustration overcoming us. There were tough times that led to tears as a result of feeling defeated. However, we made sure to turn it around and revert to more positive, productive, and independent thinking. We loved each other through every high and low and never gave up. At the end of the school year, my teacher gave us the news that I passed the standardized tests and was eligible for fourth grade. Needless to say, we were overjoyed to see the hard work pay off. I could see light greeting me at the end of the tunnel. In my mom's Facebook post, she wrote, "Feeling like a proud, accomplished I'm doing something right mommy." She deserved to feel the pride alongside my teacher and I, because she did indeed do something right for me. My mom staying home and not working during the school year was truly a gift. If I were my mom and were given the choice between working or waiting for a job, I would choose to wait for a job. From this experience, I have been taught to love selflessly. I have also been taught that our thoughts can become things. When we dwell on negative things, especially in the past, they are bound to happen. When we think about positive things, they are bound to happen as well. What we think about can dictate our future. For those reasons and many more, I give my mom all the accolades.

Clearing clutter is a major goal of mine. There is so much stuff I have that it has almost gotten out of control. Quite honestly, I would rather people in need have it all than myself. Over the summer, I did a major closet clean out by going through clothes that I have outgrown and simply no longer need or want anymore. As an estimate, I took out more than half of what I currently have left. My mom donated some of the clothes to her workplace and others she gave to her friend's daughter. I gave some pieces of clothing to my cousin just recently and plan to pass more on to my other cousin. Whatever does not get taken will go to my local consignment shop. From there, I will sell or donate what is left. I still have yet to go through miscellaneous items in my room. On top of that, we have a spare room filled with things to look at. Ultimately, the goal is to eventually have a garage sale. Things that we have accumulated deserve to go to a new home, especially since they are not needed and will not be needed for us. In the past, we have donated things to the local Goodwill donation center. We made sure the items we wanted to give away were gently used and in good condition. It was simply a drive-thru that allowed you to drop off the unwanted items. From there, the items would go to Goodwill stores and be sold for lower prices. Unfortunately, the donation center permanently shut down a while ago. Nonetheless, that will not stop me from giving back to my community. Embodying selflessness is something I truly value. I once came across a quote saying that it is better to give than receive. I am a Nondenominational Christian, so I firmly believe that God would want us to give, especially to those who are poor. When it comes to Christmas and my birthdays, I would rather experience things instead of getting gifts. To me, getting presents is not the main focus for those special occasions. Not only that, but I am about putting others before me. If I were given the choice between being wealthy or protecting my friends, family and loved ones, I would choose their wealth and safety over my own wealthy and safety. Every big and small action we take can impact our community and the world.

Unfortunately, the concert tickets for Tampa sold out by the time my mom tried to purchase them, so I did not get to go to her concert. Anytime a singer I love plans to have a show in Florida, I am always eager to go. Taylor Swift is one of my favorite singers and has been for a long time. Not only is she a great singer, but she is truly a genuine person who cares deeply about her fans and is down to earth. I hope to see her live the next time she has a show in Florida and even meet her. It is safe to say that I am a Swiftie. Nonetheless, that has not stopped me from listening to her music. Her songs encourage me to embrace my imperfections and reach my full potential, regardless of what people think or say. Her song 'Mean' is a perfect example. I was a victim of bullying during 7th grade. That song has reminded me that when you are happy and successful, you are capable of overpowering the bullies. One of the contestants on America's Got Talent announced that she gets bullied after singing a song. That is when Simon Cowell, one of the judges uttered those same words, and I could not agree more. Sadly, many victims of bullying think to themselves that they are less capable than the bullies, but that is not true. The lyrics that speak to me the most are, "Someday, I'll be living in a big ole city," and "Someday, I'll be big enough so you can't hit me." Thriving in your life, making great accomplishments, and having resilience and positivity are what lift you higher than the people who seek to bring you down. You can outsmart the bullies, so the key is to not let them control you and make you feel less than who you truly are. That is why we should never underestimate ourselves, especially when we have goals that we desire to meet. Virtually any dream that you put your mind to can become a reality, no matter how often the world may try to convince you otherwise. Every time I listen to her music, my spirits are lifted, especially after a difficult day. Her music has lyrics with such uniqueness that speak to my soul. I could not imagine her any other way. She is truly a legend.

Welcome one, welcome all! My name is Jordan Cruz. I am a first-generation college student, a psychology major, and an aspiring mental health counseling therapist. Everyone has had to overcome obstacles. Some are obvious and others are not. It is safe to say that I have faced some challenges that were cumbersome for me at times. Nonetheless, I persevered and came out stronger in the end. When I was nine, my parents and I found out at the end of the school year that I needed to repeat third grade. That was because I did not pass the standardized tests required to move on to fourth grade. Although it was a hard pill to swallow, I made sure to stay optimistic and work hard. After lots of one-on-one time, tutoring, studying, and effort, we got the news that I passed both the standardized tests and was eligible for fourth grade. Needless to say, we were beyond overjoyed that the accomplishment was made. I could visualize a beam of light greeting me at the end of the tunnel. During fifth grade, my parents got divorced, which was probably even harder than getting held back in third grade. It took time to adjust to the new normal, but I made sure to walk at a snail's pace. That meant mentally going one day at a time to process everything, which helped me learn and understand so much more. The biggest thing I have taken away is that life and the world are not always going to fall into place. That is why we must do our best to adapt as much as possible. Eventually, things got easier for us and my determination to continue making my parents proud will never fail. Toward the middle of seventh grade, I discovered that most of my peers in my dance class were bullying me. It took a toll on my mental health and made me feel like a burden on my friends, teachers and family. Almost every day, I would cry in the school bathrooms or as soon as I got home and felt safe. Even though I made my teacher aware, the bullying still went on. At one point, I realized enough was enough, so I expressed my interest in therapy to my parents. Because of therapy, my mental health has improved tremendously, and I am grateful for it. Counseling therapy has made me feel inspired to have a turn to advocate for those in need. I specifically want to work with children and adolescents. I firmly believe that my experiences have enabled empathy and open-mindedness for me. It is easy for me to step in someone else's shoes and say that I have been there too. I envision myself sharing my experience with future clients to help them feel not alone and unashamed. Overall, my biggest hope is to spread the importance of mental health and ultimately inch society toward destigmatization. By next year, I am hoping to receive my bachelor's degree. After graduation, I plan to move straight on to graduate school to pursue a master's degree in clinical mental health counseling. Once that happens, it will take about another two to three years to become a licensed counseling therapist. I still have a long way to go, but I am willing to work for my ambition. My message is never to give up. The key is to stay focused, even when you are genuinely having a tough time and keep fighting for what you want. No matter what, you are capable of conquering virtually anything that you put your mind to.

Climate change is probably one of the biggest concerns in the world right now. Human impact is a contributing factor. To an extent, we are a part of the problem without realizing it. Nonetheless, changing our daily habits can help reduce air pollution and ultimately prevent climate change. That is why it is important to stay educated on the current issues and the actions we can take. During my freshman year of high school, I had taken a global perspectives course. A lot of the material we learned involved sustainable living. One day, my teacher showed us a video about a humanitarian named Rob Greenfield, who used to own a tiny house in Orlando. The house was only 100 square feet, built for under 1500 dollars, and consisted of 99 percent repurposed, second-hand materials, while creating just about 30 pounds of trash. However, it does not end there. He had an outdoor kitchen, a propane camp stove, a biogas system for his cooking, and even outdoor toilets and showers. Rob is a vegetarian, grows the majority of his food and does not even drive a car. While it boggled my mind to see all those features, I felt inspired to inch the world away from climate change. My grandma Maria has a green thumb, loves to garden, and is passionate about living sustainably. I decided to share what I learned from the video, because of how much my admiration sprung. After telling her about the video, she proceeded to inform me that she once met Rob Greenfield. Meanwhile, he hosted an event in Orlando that I got to attend. It was an honor being able to meet him in person and learn so much from him. In addition, I joined the Earth First Environmental Club that same year and became an officer in my sophomore year. The events we had were cleanups, environmental fairs, wildlife festivals and more. This reminded me that the smallest deeds we commit are the most meaningful and can make a tremendous difference. I still see Rob Greenfield's posts on social media and watch his videos. Acquiring knowledge and following his tips on how to live a healthy, sustainable lifestyle gives me hope that I can spread awareness and make the world a better place. I hope to see Rob Greenfield whenever he is in the area again and continue to learn from him. If I were to leave a brief message at the top of the mountain, my message would be, "We are capable of making the world a better place. It is up to us and only us. If Rob Greenfield can do it, so can you." As said by Mahatma Gandhi, be the change we wish to see in the world. If we wish to see a healthier planet, the change starts with us. It may be difficult, but it will never be impossible. Any dream that we put our minds to can become a reality.

I want to help destigmatize mental health. Because I know that I cannot just sit and wait for it to happen, I am willing to help take action. Currently, I am studying psychology and anthropology at Stetson University as a first-generation college student. After graduation, I plan to move on to graduate school to pursue a Master's Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Ultimately, my biggest goal is to become a counseling therapist for children and adolescents, specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and potentially open my practice. This ambition will not be handed to me. Nonetheless, I am willing to work for it. My mental health was hit during 5th and 7th grade. Looking back, mental health was not being talked about as much as it is now, especially youth mental health. Although it took time and courage, I finally opened up to my parents and expressed my interest in therapy. We all came to a mutual consensus that therapy would be right for me and it was. Being a client in counseling therapy has inspired me to give back to my community. My mom and I have referred some people we know to the counseling center I currently go to. Some of the people we have referred have attended counseling sessions there and also could not be more pleased with their experience. It will be an honor to have a turn to advocate for those in similar boats. My journey has enabled me to have empathy and put myself in other people's shoes. I hope to help future clients feel not alone in the world. I hope to help future clients feel not ashamed of the struggles they face. Finally, I hope to help future clients see the importance of mental health. A mental problem can be equivalent to catching a cold. The truth is, it is far out of your control. It is not your fault and you cannot help it. Thankfully, our society has started to make some progress. Hotlines have been implemented, mental health services have increased, and most schools and workplaces are allowing people to take mental health days. Those are small steps but in the right direction. We still have a long way to go, but this gives us hope for the future. When we evaluate ourselves, look after others, spread awareness, and seek intervention when needed, we can inch closer to meeting the goal of destigmatizing mental health. The change starts with us and it is only up to us. It may be difficult, but it will not be impossible.

My name is Jordan. I'm a first-generation college student studying psychology and anthropology at Stetson University. My mental health journey started in 5th grade. It was at the time mental health wasn't being as talked about, especially youth mental health. I experienced high waves of anxiety that I wore as a security blanket almost daily. Oftentimes, I couldn't quite demystify where the anxiety was stemming from. Eventually, physical effects such as fatigue, lethargy, nausea, weight loss, and delayed growth emerged as a result. My parents were worried, because it became abundantly clear that I was struggling. Fast forward to 7th grade. For the majority of the year, I was a target for bullying, which made me feel vulnerable and inferior. This time, I went through possible depression. Nearly every day, I would cry either in the bathroom at school, as soon as I got home and felt safe, or I would cry myself to sleep. It made me feel like a burden on my friends, teachers, and even my own family. Looking back, I was bottling up so much for so long, that my feelings were about to get the best of me. Although it took a lot of time and courage, I opened up to my parents about what I was going through. They were caring, understanding, nurturing, supportive, and agreed to get me professional help. From there, I started attending monthly counseling sessions. I still to this day see the same therapist, and I am incredibly thankful for it. I'm proud to say that my mental health has tremendously improved. I still have moments of falling down, but in the end, I get right back up. Counseling has helped me acquire more effective coping mechanisms for episodes of sadness and fear. One of the things I have taken away is that mental health is a subject that needs to be destigmatized. Many schools allow students to learn how to administer CPR. What if schools provided opportunities for students to learn how to handle someone in a mental health crisis, whether if it is a loved one or even a stranger. Sadly, mental health doesn't get as much deserved attention as physical health, which creates a gap. However, we can fill the gap by spreading awareness, educating ourselves, and showing care. Another major thing is that nobody is immune. I have so much to be thankful for in my life from wonderful parents, an amazing family, devoted friends, and much more. What I encountered may come as a shock to people, but mental health does not care how blissful your life is. On the outside, I was happy-go-lucky, but I fought an internal battle deep down inside. Just because someone's smiling and laughing, doesn't mean they're truly happy. You never know what's going on behind the scenes. My career goal is to become a counseling therapist for children and adolescents. I feel inspired to have a turn in advocating for those in need. Because of what I faced, I have become more empathetic. When I learn that someone is struggling, I easily take a moment to put myself in their shoes and express how I can relate. I want my future clients to know how much their feelings matter and that it is okay to not be okay. Everyone must take a moment to check up on themselves. Everyone must take a break when their gut tells them to. Everyone has a brain that needs to be cared for each day. My message is that regardless of what you're currently facing, you are never alone. You're stronger than you think, and you are capable of conquering virtually anything that comes your way!

I want to help destigmatize mental health. I know waiting for it to happen without committing to it is not the answer to guaranteeing that change. I am a psychology major at Stetson University and an aspiring counseling therapist for children and adolescents. I have also thought about potentially becoming an adjunct professor for psychology courses. Considering that psychology is a broad field, there is so much to learn and apply. Nonetheless, mental health is probably the biggest building block of psychology that is unfortunately underutilized and not taken with enough seriousness. It's abundantly clear that there's room for improvement. In fact, I am one of those people affected by mental health struggles. I am one of those people who has been a client in therapy. Last, but not least, I am one of those people who feel inspired by their experience to pursue a career in the mental health field. What I hope to do is teach people the components of the mind, mental health, and the overall importance. The first step to destigmatizing mental health is spreading awareness, which means educating yourself and others. Although it may sound rudimentary, voicing out the value can go a long way. Thankfully, we are starting to see some progress. Hotlines have been implemented and more mental health resources and services have become readily available for people in need. Furthermore, most workplaces and schools are allowing people to take mental health days. This shows that we have made strides as a society, especially in the last decade. Looking back on 5th and 7th grade, mental health was not being talked about as much as it is now, especially youth mental health. Those years were the times when my mental health was most impacted. Thanks to counseling, my mental health has improved tremendously. I have been seeing the same therapist since 7th grade, but I could not have asked for a better outcome. I have referred some people to the counseling center that I currently attend. Anytime my mom's friends talked about considering counseling for their children, she referred them as well. Some of them have been going to the same counseling center and also had a great experience. I hope and pray that I can encourage clients to keep in mind that it is okay to not be okay. Evaluate yourselves, look out for others, give advice, and seek intervention when needed.

Many of us have probably heard of this famous quote, "It is better to give than to receive." It reminds me that embodying selflessness is important in the world that we live in. If I were given the choice between having wealth or ensuring security for my family, friends, and loved ones, I would choose their wealth and safety over my wealth and safety. What I want to see in everyone I meet is good health and happiness. I pray every day that people I know and do not know are secure, comfortable, and loved, even if they are acquaintances. Since 7th grade, I have been attending monthly sessions with a counseling therapist. I choose to go to counseling because I have faced obstacles with my mental health in the past. From suffering from high anxiety in 5th grade to going through a time of potential depression due to bullying a couple of years later, I could tell that I needed help. Yes, I am currently seeing the same therapist, but her expertise, advice, support, and helpful tips have helped me gain so much independence and grow as an individual. Honestly, I could not have asked for a better therapist. The counseling center I go to is full of wonderful therapists. Plenty of my friends and other people I know have expressed their interest in therapy to me. I thoroughly listened to their mental health concerns to decipher what is bothering them. Not only did I give advice about my experience, but I have referred many people to the counseling center. Anytime my mom's friends opened up to her about considering counseling for their children, she referred them as well. A few of them ended up finding a therapist at the same office and had a great experience as well. It was an honor to recommend a great place for those seeking it and learning about the rewarding outcomes. Nonetheless, I never stop looking out for others. That could mean sending a message to someone asking how they are doing just to check up on them. Simple acts like this are enough to show care for an individual. If I suspect that someone is in a major crisis, I will encourage them to take immediate action, even if that means needing to intervene in certain situations. If I observe something that is concerning, I do not hesitate to speak up. As a career, I want to become a counseling therapist for children and adolescents. I hope to have a turn to advocate, give advice, and provide support. Being a client in therapy and referring people to the counseling center has inspired me to make an impact. Mental health is often underutilized and not taken with enough seriousness. It is a stigma that needs to get broken. As a society, we need to evaluate ourselves, look out for other people, and act when there is a serious problem. Although we still have a ways to go, we are on the way to destigmatizing mental health. Hotlines have been implemented, mental health services and resources have increased, and most workplaces allow people to take mental health days as needed. Those are steps in the right direction. We still have room for improvement, yet we are capable of conquering virtually anything that we put our minds to and making the world a better place. It may seem difficult, but it will never be impossible. We are all a work in progress and as said by my therapist, perfection does not exist. The change starts with us and it is only up to us.

I am a first-generation college student, a psychology major, and an aspiring counseling therapist for children and adolescents. Being a therapist means creating inclusion, which is going to involve gifted people. Although being gifted can be incredibly rewarding, there are unfortunately some downsides. Other students, particularly peers, may exhibit jealousy of the talents and well-roundedness of the gifted individual. Subsequently, bullying arises and inevitably leads to self-esteem issues. Being gifted academically can make a child feel different from their peers and may even lead to them becoming depressed. Sadly, this is because the child may potentially feel alone and isolated. While in school, I often encountered people who were labeled as the quote-unquote "smart kid," including myself. It was always one of those math, reading, history, or science geeks. They would be the first to raise their hand and answer a question. However, anytime they acted confused or did not answer something right away, students in the class would be quick to belittle them, even in a humorous manner. Regardless, I found it offensive, especially since I have been made fun of for not giving an immediate answer on several occasions. People would act flabbergasted and say something along the lines of, "How come Jordan didn't answer this time?" Or, they would point to me and expect me to say something. Because I have not taken a true IQ test, I cannot say if I am for sure gifted. Nonetheless, what I want to do through my career is give advice to those who have faced setbacks with being gifted. A possible reason why people bully the gifted is because they have low self-esteem. Therefore, they likely feel the need to bring others down and measure up so they can feel better about themselves. When that is the case, both the bully and the victim are hurting in some way. This is an explanation, but never an excuse to ridicule someone. I have been bullied in the past, so sharing my experience with future clients may help them feel to not alone in the world, knowing that they are not the only ones facing the associated circumstances. Bullying often goes unnoticed, which is sad. Everyone deserves to be treated with respect and ultimately feel heard. To everyone out there gifted or not, please know that you do have a gift. You have talents that can help you conquer virtually anything you put your mind to.

I am a psychology major, a first-generation college student, and an aspiring counseling therapist for children and adolescents. My journey started in 5th grade, which was a time mental health was not talked about as much as it is now. Almost daily, I suffered from high, almighty anxiety that eventually led to physical effects. Nausea, lethargy, fatigue, decreased hunger, and weight loss emerged. Emotionally, I lost interest in activities, hardly laughed, and cried almost every day. I became less outgoing and felt more on edge in certain situations. Regardless of how hard I tried to mask the internal battle I fought, the changes were noticeable to my family, which was worrisome. It became abundantly clear to them that I was struggling. When I entered 6th grade, my anxiety seemed to get under control, I laughed much more and felt happier overall. This gave me hope that my mental health would be in a good place again, or so I thought. That changed when I discovered I was being bullied in the middle of 7th grade. I felt as though my mental health went backward because I faced similar emotional changes. It felt like a repeat of my mental state in 5th grade, but worse. It made me feel inferior and like a burden on my friends, teachers, and family. At one point, my feelings were nearly getting the best of me and it was time to speak up after bottling them up for so long. Although it took time and courage, I opened up to my parents about what I was going through and expressed my interest in counseling therapy. This was a thought I sat on for a long time, and even more so during 7th grade. We came to a mutual consensus that therapy would be beneficial, and it was. I am happy to say that my mental health has improved tremendously as a result. I still have moments of falling down, but I find a way to stand back up within the next minute. My passion for becoming a counseling therapist sprung when I took psychology as an elective in my sophomore year of high school. Nonetheless, my experience with the obstacles I faced and being a client in therapy has mainly led to my ambition. As an individual, I firmly believe it has made me understanding, empathetic, open-minded, and knowledgeable. It will be an honor to have a turn to listen, give advice, and advocate for others, especially those in similar shoes. Mental health is often underutilized and not taken with enough seriousness. Throughout my career, I want to spread the importance and teach others to never feel ashamed of their struggles. Nobody is immune. A mental illness can be equated to catching a cold. It is far out of your control and never your fault. Despite having wonderful parents, a great family, nurturing teachers, an awesome circle of friends, and countless blessings, that did not mean that I was not struggling. It did not matter how many times I went to get-togethers, it did not matter how many times I took in the simple life pleasures, nor did it matter how well I did academically in school. Regardless of how hard things got, my experience has not cursed my life. If anything, it has made me the person I am today. I still have a ways to go until I reach my ultimate peak. However, I know that I am determined to make my parents, family, and myself proud. I am eager to see my future unfold and God's plans that currently await my reach.

Every one of us has been forced to overcome obstacles that come from the supernatural force called life. Some are obvious, while others are not. As said by Linda Poindexter, "One small crack does not mean you are broken, it means that you were put to the test and you didn't fall apart." There are plenty of times I demonstrated tenacity in challenges, one of which I am about to share. During 7th grade, I discovered that I was being bullied and made fun of by some of my peers, which took a toll on my mental health. Even when I tried to speak up and solve the problem, the bullying still went on. It made me feel discouraged, belittled, and inferior to the point I cried almost daily. I would cry either in the bathroom at school or as soon as I was home and felt safe. At one point, I felt like a burden on my friends, teachers, and even my own family. Despite how cumbersome the bullying was, I had a prosperous year academically. I persevered by staying on top of my studies. I made sure to study for upcoming tests and complete assignments I was given and turn them in on time. I did not want to let the fact that I was a victim of bullying stop me. I got on the honor roll the entire year and it has stayed that way for all of my time in school. I have always been eager to learn and even in a class that did not interest me, I made sure to do my best. Anytime I needed help, I would simply ask my teachers. As much as I am never afraid to provide support, I am also never afraid to reach out for support, especially in difficult circumstances. Once the year ended, I felt accomplished, knowing that I successfully conquered the school year with flying colors. My teachers noticed how much effort I put into my work. From my experience, I learned that the key to winning over bullies is being happy and successful. It shows how much strength you have to overcome obstacles that come your way. Although my feelings were hurt, I wanted to wear a smile on my face and meet my goals as much as possible. When you make accomplishments and keep your head held high, you are capable of overpowering the face of adversity.

I am a first-generation college student, a psychology major, and an aspiring counseling therapist for children and adolescents. Ultimately, my dream is to help destigmatize mental health. Being that I am one of those people affected by mental health struggles, it is safe to say that there is so much that I can apply from my experience. Furthermore, I have attended counseling therapy since seventh grade, which has helped me overcome so much in my life. The tips and advice that I have received from my therapist led to my passion for counseling and advocacy. I firmly believe that the obstacles I faced with my mental health encouraged me to become more open-minded, empathetic, understanding, and knowledgeable as a person. Through my career, I will have many opportunities to put myself in the shoes of people who are struggling by sharing what I went through, to hopefully help them feel not alone in the world. Many feel ashamed of what brings them down, and I want to help future clients see that it is okay to not be okay. Because I have personal experience, it will enable me to give advice, especially advice that I was given from my therapist, parents, and loved ones. Actively listening and asking questions will help me decipher what is going on in someone else's world. In addition, explaining the importance of mental health is another action I can take. Our brain is an organ that we must care for daily alongside the rest of our body. Our mental health can dictate our physical state and how we perform every day, which is why we must hold it accountable. If clients hear this, they may likely tell other people, which could in turn help break the stigma. Sharing examples of how the obstacles I faced with my mental health could be eye-openers. Mental health is often underutilized and not taken with enough seriousness. Nevertheless, more hotlines and mental health services have been implemented, which is pointing our society in the right direction. This makes resources easily accessible for people seeking intervention, especially those who are facing a mental health crisis and need immediate help. We are capable of making a difference. We are capable of making dreams a reality. We are capable of making improvements. Overall, we are capable of being the change that we wish to see not only in our society but in the world.

I am a psychology major at Stetson University with a dream of becoming a counseling therapist for children and adolescents. While maintaining a 3.7 GPA, I am involved in the Fellowship of Christian Athlete's Club and Omicron Delta Kappa Honor Society. For almost four years now, I have had my heart set on psychology. My passion sprung even more when I took a psychology class during my sophomore year of high school. Furthermore, I have faced obstacles with my mental health in the past and have been seeing the same therapist since 7th grade. Although I still have moments of falling, I always find a way to get back up. Because of therapy, I am happy to say that my mental health has improved tremendously. Being a client in therapy has helped me become more optimistic, empathetic, open-minded, and independent. Despite hard times, I persevered and graduated high school last year with an Associate of Arts degree from Daytona State College, after being dual-enrolled for two years. Through my career, I hope to share my experience to help future clients feel not alone while also teaching them the importance of mental health. Unfortunately, mental health is often underutilized and not taken with enough seriousness. Many schools allow students to learn how to administer CPR. What if schools provided opportunities for students to learn how to handle someone in a mental health crisis, whether it is a loved one or even a stranger? This is a sign that mental health needs to be destigmatized. There is nothing that is worth more than our mentality and overall health. Nonetheless, hotlines and mental health services being implemented have helped our society progress. How our mental state is can dictate how our physical state is and vice versa. It is more than our neck and head having a connection. Our brain is an organ that needs to be cared for daily alongside the rest of our body. We live in a civilized society that urges us to look after others. We must also stop and take a moment to evaluate ourselves. A mental health problem is equivalent to having a cold and we can't help it. The truth is, it is far out of our control most of the time. It is okay to not be okay. It is okay to examine yourself. It is okay to seek intervention. Finally, it is okay to take a break.

Greetings! I'm Jordan Cruz, a first-generation college student studying psychology and anthropology at Stetson University. I am involved in the Fellowship of Christian Athlete's Club and Omicron Delta Kappa Honor Society. I come from a Hispanic family on my dad's side and I'm the youngest to be earning a Bachelor's Degree. Last year, I graduated high school with an Associate of Arts degree, after being dual-enrolled with Daytona State College for two years. Once I graduate from Stetson next year, I plan on going straight into graduate school to pursue a master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Ultimately, my biggest ambition is to become a counseling therapist for children and adolescents. What I want to do is help destigmatize mental health. Unfortunately, mental health is underutilized and not taken with enough seriousness. It is safe to say that I am one of those people who have been affected and gone to therapy, which has led to my dream career. In 5th grade, I suffered from high, almighty anxiety almost daily. Eventually, physical effects such as weight loss, fatigue, and lethargy emerged. When I started middle school, I started to smile and laugh a lot more. I became hopeful that my mental health was returning to a better state, or so I thought. Toward the middle of 7th grade, I was being bullied. It made me feel inferior, discouraged, and belittled to the point I was crying almost every day. Although it took lots of time and courage, I expressed my interest in therapy to my parents. We all came to a mutual consensus that therapy would be right for me, and it was. I still have moments of falling, but I always find a way to get back up. Because of therapy, I have become more empathetic, open-minded and independent. Being a client in therapy has inspired me to potentially have a turn to advocate and give advice. Through my career, I hope to share my past experiences to help future clients feel not alone. Furthermore, I will keep praying for people to see the importance of mental health and how vital it is in our daily lives. We live in a civilized society that urges us to look out for others, whether it is a loved one, a friend, or even a stranger. The more we spread awareness and the more we pay attention, the more likely mental health can become destigmatized. It may be difficult, but it will never be impossible.

Out of all the categories, mental health would be the chosen one. Despite having a beautiful life consisting of countless blessings, that did not mean that I was not having a hard time. My story may come as a shock to some people. Nonetheless, nobody is immune, with the inclusion of myself. During 5th grade, I suffered from high, almighty anxiety almost daily. It was something that became normalized and my security blanket, even though it was excruciatingly painful on many days. Looking back, I would describe myself as a worrier. Oftentimes, I was worried about things other people my age weren't and I could not quite demystify where the anxiety was directly stemming from. At the time, the anxiety was seen as a ticking bomb counting down the number of seconds until it was time for darkness to explode and fill me up from head to toe. Eventually, physical effects such as nausea, lethargy, fatigue, and weight loss emerged. My parents were worried because it became abundantly clear to them that I was struggling. When I entered middle school, my anxiety was more under control. I started to smile and laugh a lot more, which gave me hope that my mental state would be good again, or so I thought. Towards the middle of 7th grade, I discovered that I was being bullied, which took a toll on me mentally for a long time. Almost every day, I would cry. On the outside, I was happy-go-lucky. In actuality, I was at an all-time low deep down inside. When I was out and about, I would try incredibly hard not to show my true feelings so people did not worry about me. When I was alone and felt safe, I would have meltdowns consisting of hours of tears, either in the bathroom at school, at home, or while in bed. At that point, I knew I needed to do something different. Although it took lots of time and courage, I opened up to my parents and expressed my interest in counseling. It was a thought I sat on for a long time and I could tell they were willing to help me. They knew from the get-go that I was having a difficult time. Since then, I have been attending monthly sessions and seeing the same therapist. I am happy to say that my mental health has improved tremendously as a result of therapy. This reminds me that intervention can and will come a long way for an individual. Going to therapy was one of the most worthwhile decisions I have made. My therapist's advice and expertise keep me going in life. I still have moments of falling, but I get right back up within the next minute. I am still a work in progress, but as said by my therapist, perfection does not exist. I am still learning and growing, but I am willing to take on the ride that we call life. My advice is to take care of yourselves, take a break, and never feel afraid to get help. Remember your worth, remember your beauty, and remember your strength.

My favorite thing about Disney is the song, It's a Small World by Richard M. Sherman and Robert B. Sherman. When you meet someone you know at an unexpected place or find out that you share a friend or an acquaintance with another person and you had no idea, it is natural to immediately express surprise. Then you might be quick to say something along the lines of, "Wow! What a small world!" That is exactly what the song reminds me of. Although the world seems huge, we can still meet people we know in the most unforeseen places. For example, my mom and I went to a housewarming party for one of her good friends. One of the guests was a professor from my community college that I was dual-enrolled with for most of high school. She informed us that she teaches classes related to political science, including American Federal Government, one of the classes I took. Her name was Sally Hansen, just like the American beauty brand established by an entrepreneur with the same name. The moment I heard her name, I knew right then that she taught me. Since she did not teach me in a traditional class, it was wonderful meeting her in person. The fact that she knew my mom's friend was quite a discovery. I had no idea that both of them knew each other nor did I know that she would be at the party. She was incredibly kind and told me to never hesitate to reach out, especially if I need a letter of recommendation, which she graciously wrote for me at the time I was applying for colleges. I told her in an email how neat it was to meet her at a party and learn that she knew my mom's friend. The first thing that she said in her reply to me was, "What a small world!" That same year, I went to Magic Kingdom and rode the ride the song is sung. As I heard the lyrics, all I could think of were the moments of realizing how small the world truly is. When I hear someone utter what a small world, the song comes to my mind. If that makes sense, I have been reminded that you never know who someone is going to know. In a way, it is one of those situations where you should expect the unexpected.

Enriching my faith and relationship with the Lord has changed me tremendously. In my book talking about faith, there is a quote that says, "A Christian is not merely someone who has turned over a new leaf, but someone who has turned over a new life." This speaks utter truth because it is safe to say that I am not the same person I was before rededicating myself to God. In 5th grade, I completely stopped going to church, which made me a lukewarm Christian. Even when I consistently went to church on Sundays, I can tell something was missing now that I look back. That same year, I was suffering from high, almighty anxiety almost daily. I remember getting frustrated when something did not go as planned, regardless of how much I prayed to God. I became a victim of bullying in 7th grade, which took a toll on my mental health. There were times I would try to please others because of how much I doubted myself. I felt isolated, as though I belonged to an entirely different planet and did not fit in. Nonetheless, all those feelings and perspectives changed when in 8th grade. One day, I was leaving 7th period and my friend Christian approached me, asking if I would like to go to youth group with him. That alone was a big wake-up call and led me to say yes. That night was the start of a new path and truly moved me. When I got home, I could not help but look forward to the next night of youth group. Meanwhile, I got wonderful advice from people about baptism. I sat on the thought of getting baptized for a long time. On March 28th, 2019, I was baptized in the name of the Father, the Son, and the holy spirit. This was just a little over a month after my 16th birthday. My baptism was honestly the most redemptive moment. The Lord washed away my sins and pulled me out of the hole of apprehension and pessimism. This aligns with the verse from Psalms 40:2 which says, "He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire; he set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand." The Lord saved me and renewed my mind. I do not think I had a clear visualization of God's plans until I gave my life to Christ. Whenever something does not work out, I remind myself that it means God had different plans and they will only be for my benefit. It was not always easy to fully decipher what God was doing in my life, but I knew all he needs me to do is be patient. Eventually, my perspectives on God and life were transformed. I gained a greater understanding of his plans and how unequivocal they truly are. As a career, I am hoping to become a counselor for children and adolescents. I firmly believe that my faith will assist me by reminding me that through God, anything is possible. I want to help destigmatize mental health and I am faithful that the goal will be met, especially when I educate people on its importance. I am a work-in-progress. I am far from perfect. I never was and I never will be, but I am finally okay with that. It does not matter your past or your now. God loves you unconditionally no matter what.

During my sophomore year of high school, I was an Executive Board Officer for the Earth First Club. I would attend bi-weekly meetings that involved helping the officers organize the general meetings and events. At every general meeting, I would help point out important things to keep each student aware. Being able to oversee the club alongside the officers kept me on my toes, but it was incredibly rewarding at the same time. Of course, my advisor was always the first person to keep me in the loop about things, hence why there were meetings designated specifically for the officers. At the end of the school year, I decided to apply for an officer position in the Kawanis Educates Youth Club (KEY Club for short). While I cannot recall the actual position, I remember feeling very excited about having the opportunity as an officer. Unfortunately, the advisor left and the school could not find anyone to take over the club. That meant the KEY Club was no longer existent on campus. Not long after, I found out that the Earth First Club discontinued as well. It broke my heart because I valued those clubs so much and made great memories. Nonetheless, I never lost my passion for leadership. In fact, the hunger I had for becoming an officer again only increased. During the entirety of my junior year, I did school completely online due to the pandemic. Although I felt safer being at home, I genuinely missed being in clubs and doing other fun in-person scholastic activities I always enjoyed. Once the school year ended, I decided to go back to brick-and-mortar school for my senior year. I made sure to savor the last bit of high school as much as possible, so I do not regret making that decision. For a while before, I pondered hard on the thought of becoming an officer for the Fellowship of Christian Athletes Club. I reached out to the advisor, expressing my interest, and she sent me a simple form to fill out. After completing the form, I hoped and prayed that I could become an officer. Lo and behold, I found out that I was going to be a general officer for the club and I was over the moon excited. Throughout the year, I went to weekly meetings to help organize huddles, Bible studies, and other events. There were a few times I got to speak at huddles and Bible studies. I could not have asked for a better experience. Through my leadership skills, I hope to be a mentor to others and spread awareness. Educating people is vital in our society and can go a long way.

During my sophomore year of high school, I was an Executive Board Officer for the Earth First Club. I would attend bi-weekly meetings that involved helping the officers organize the general meetings and events. At every general meeting, I would help point out important things to keep each student aware. Being able to oversee the club alongside the officers kept me on my toes, but it was incredibly rewarding at the same time. Of course, my advisor was always the first person to keep me in the loop about things, hence why there were meetings designated specifically for the officers. At the end of the school year, I decided to apply for an officer position in the Kawanis Educates Youth Club (KEY Club for short). While I cannot recall the actual position, I remember feeling very excited about having the opportunity as an officer. Unfortunately, the advisor left and the school could not find anyone to take over the club. That meant the KEY Club was no longer existent on campus. Not long after, I found out that the Earth First Club discontinued as well. It broke my heart because I valued those clubs so much and made great memories. Nonetheless, I never lost my passion for leadership. In fact, the hunger I had for becoming an officer again only increased. During the entirety of my junior year, I did school completely online due to the pandemic. Although I felt safer being at home, I genuinely missed being in clubs and doing other fun in-person scholastic activities I always enjoyed. Once the school year ended, I decided to go back to brick-and-mortar school for my senior year. I made sure to savor the last bit of high school as much as possible, so I do not regret making that decision. For a while before, I pondered hard on the thought of becoming an officer for the Fellowship of Christian Athletes Club. I reached out to the advisor, expressing my interest, and she sent me a simple form to fill out. After completing the form, I hoped and prayed that I could become an officer. Lo and behold, I found out that I was going to be a general officer for the club and I was over the moon excited. Throughout the year, I went to weekly meetings to help organize huddles, Bible studies, and other events. There were a few times I got to speak at huddles and Bible studies. I could not have asked for a better experience. Through my leadership skills, I hope to be a mentor to others and spread awareness. Educating people is vital in our society and can go a long way.

Greetings! My name is Jordan Cruz. I am a first-generation college student living in a single-parent household. If I had to think of one person who has supported me the most educationally, it would be my mother. Although my father is in my life and has supported me tremendously, I give my mom all the credit and accolades. We have laughed together, cried together, and struggled together to get me to where I am today. When I was nine, we learned at the end of the school year that I needed to repeat third grade. That was because I did not pass the standardized tests that were required for me to move on to fourth grade. Knowing that most of my peers at the time were moving up without me was hard to process. Nonetheless, I knew that I needed to keep my head held high and work hard. My mom had the thought of finding a new job, but she wanted to stay around as much as possible to help me. She selflessly decided to not work so she had the time to work with me one-on-one on reading, homework, and projects. Even though that meant becoming a stay-home mom, the sacrifice was well worth it and will never be taken for granted. Let's face it. It did not always come easy for us. There were moments of frustration running high and overcoming us, resulting in tears almost every time. However, we always made sure to turn it around and revert to more positive, productive, and independent thinking. She reminded me to have a good attitude and keep doing my best, even when things were difficult. Meanwhile, my teacher gave us the news that I passed the standardized tests and was eligible for fourth grade. Needless to say, we were overjoyed and ecstatic to see the hard work pay off in the end. I saw a beam of light greeting me at the end of the tunnel. When she announced the news on Facebook she wrote, "Feeling like a proud, accomplished, I must be doing something right, mommy." She deserved to feel the pride and excitement. Not only did I persevere, but she also persevered. Not only did I work hard, but she also worked hard. Not only did I stay optimistic, but she also stayed optimistic. The achievement that I made was because of her guidance and support. She is not only my mom, but my teacher, counselor, supporter, best friend, and more. Without her, I would not be the individual I am today, so thank you.

First and foremost, everyone out there has needed to overcome obstacles. Some are obvious, others not so much. We all have faced hardships that come from the supernatural force that we call life. It is safe to say that I have gone through difficult times. Nonetheless, what I encountered has molded me into the individual I am today. At the end of third grade, my parents and I learned that I did not pass the standardized tests that were required for me to move on to fourth grade. That meant I needed to repeat third grade and most of my peers at the time were being promoted without me. The moment I heard the news, I felt devastated and concerned about the future in a way. However, I knew that getting held back would only be beneficial, and it was. I went to tutoring twice a week after school, sat down with my parents on most days for homework, studied like crazy when a test was coming up, and attended small-group reading sessions for extra help. Thanks to wonderful teachers, tutors, and parents, we found out at the end of the school year that I passed the standardized tests and was eligible to move up to fourth grade. Needless to say, my parents and I were overjoyed. The two years of third grade gave us light at the end of the tunnel, after tons of struggling. When I was almost twelve, my parents got divorced. It was harder than getting held back because I knew that meant our lives would change. I chose to walk at a snail's pace, meaning that I processed everything very slowly. I took mental steps to adapt to the new life. Looking back, I can see that God had different plans than us, but it was only for our benefit. Since then, my perspectives on life have changed in positive ways. At the time, it was hard for me to understand all of what was happening. Now that I am older, I have become more knowledgeable and have grown to understand that life and the world are not always going to line up with our needs and desires. Toward the middle of 7th grade, I discovered that I was being bullied. Without going into grave detail, I had two students put me through a terrible situation at the end of the school year that resulted in them getting suspended. This had taken a toll on my mental health for a long time. I had trouble trusting others due to many of my peers showing their true colors and treating me poorly. Because of that, I felt inferior and cried almost every day. As soon as I reached 8th grade, the bullying stopped and I immediately felt happy again, especially since I started talking with a therapist. Let's face it. Life is full of peaks and valleys. It is abundantly clear that I have seen myself in valleys just like everyone else. Nonetheless, the hardships I have endured have put me at a peak. What I encountered has not cursed my life, but has enabled me to accomplish so much that I will never take for granted. As a person, I feel that I have become more strong-willed and resilient, yet open-minded and empathetic. We are all a work-in-progress, with the inclusion of myself. As my therapist told me, perfection does not exist. Without the darkness, the light would not be embraceable.

Greetings! Welcome one, welcome all. My name is Jordan Cruz. I am a first-generation college student living in a single-parent household. Currently, I am a senior at Stetson University pursuing a major in psychology and a minor in anthropology. After graduating next year, I plan to go straight on to graduate school for a Master's Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. As a career, I want to become a counseling therapist for children and adolescents. I have also thought about being an adjunct professor and conducting anthropological research. I know in my heart that those goals will not be handed to me, but I am willing to keep going. It is about staying focused, even when you are genuinely tired of it and continuing to fight for what you want. Although I am blessed to have received a wonderful scholarship and great grants, I have needed to take out a loan for both my junior and senior years. If I were to win the scholarship, it will guarantee that I can finish my undergraduate journey with little to no student debt. When it comes to ambitions, I consider myself a strong-willed, go-getter, lets-do-it, hard-working individual. I am always eager to learn and express my effort. Carrying on those attributes will help me maintain a high GPA and academics, which can prevent me from taking out any additional loans. That will also allow me to apply for scholarships with high award amounts. During the semesters, I spend countless hours studying and completing assignments due at 11:59 pm. I make sure to turn in my classwork on time as well. Every action, big and small is worth it in the end. It is safe to say that I hugely value advancing in my education and life as a whole. My uncle spent almost twenty years paying off his student loans each month, which is common for many people. I am trying to avoid ending up in the same boat as much as possible. That is why I have applied for approximately five-hundred outside scholarships in total. Anytime a scholarship opportunity is present, I take complete advantage and apply when I can. I took the time out of my day to write this essay for a chance of receiving this scholarship. Thank you Joy-Dawn Colburn for selflessly donating such a high amount and guaranteeing coverage for students. I am looking forward to watching my future unfold in front of my eyes and seeing the plans that God has mapped out for me.

Helping others around you brings so many benefits to both you and the person, whether it is a peer, a friend, a colleague, a coworker, or a family member. Even an acquaintance, a professor, an advisor, a boss, or a stranger is just as deserving. There is so much power in providing guidance and assisting others. If you think about it, we rise by having an uplifting character. When someone overcomes a difficulty as a result of your help, that in turn can boost your self-esteem, confidence, and independence, knowing that you can guarantee an easier life for the person. This is what can make you a dependable individual. In first and second grade, I recall my teacher educating us on put-ups and put-downs. A put-up is an act of kindness coming from one person to another. A put-down involves bullying, teasing, or tormenting someone to hurt them. We can help others who experience a put-down by saying or doing things that would represent a put-up. For example, a bully comes at a kid and calls them common names such as ugly, fat, and loser. In this situation, a put-up could be reminding the victim that they are beautiful, special, strong, and loved. Kindly telling them not to listen to the bully and that you are there for them is a surefire way to put a smile on their face. We are capable of turning a put-down into a put-up. The truth is, you never know what someone is facing, which is why it is important to treat everyone you meet with respect and compassion. I firmly believe that being willing to help others embodies selflessness. This gave me an epiphany of the Bible verse from Philippians 2:3-4, which says, "Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others." Jesus healed many people, even when he faced trials and tribulations himself. He selflessly died on the cross and rose again three days later for our sins. He did this so salvation could be a free gift to those who believe in their heart and confess with their mouths that Jesus is our Lord and Savior. That was the biggest sacrifice ever made in all of history. This increased my passion for guiding people, especially those having trouble, even when I am not at my best. Although it is vital to take care of ourselves, there are going to be people who are at a loss and counting on you for a possible solution. We may not always make miracles, but we can certainly make a difference. Everyone has needs that are different. Life and the world will not always adjust to all of our needs. Part of helping them adapt to a complex world is assisting. Questions and concerns are inevitable, so we should be prepared to come across someone who may feel lost. As a career, I want to become a counseling therapist for children and adolescents. The pay is not the only thing leading to my aspiration. In the past, I faced obstacles with my mental health and have been attending counseling therapy since seventh grade. It will be an honor having a turn to share advice with future clients that could potentially be life-changing. Ultimately, I hope to help destigmatize mental health in our society. Nonetheless, I am also never afraid to ask for help. We are all a work in progress. As said by my therapist, perfection does not exist.

During 5th and 7th grade, I faced obstacles with my mental health. From having high, almighty anxiety causing physical effects, to going through potential depression due to bullying, to finally receiving therapy after pondering on the thought for a while, it is easy to say that mental health needs to be destigmatized. Looking back, those were times when mental health was not being looked at as much. Nonetheless, there is still room for improvement in our society. Numerous times, people would utter the phrase, "Just don't worry." Those three words were not enough to take away the negative feelings that constantly tormented me on the inside. In fact, I would feel even more infuriated, especially when things were far beyond my control. The anxiety and sadness could be described as darkness getting underneath my skin and eating away my happiness. With the wonderful blessings God has provided me in my life, this may come as a shock to some people. However, nobody is immune. It did not matter the fun times with family, the birthday parties I had, the get-togethers with my friends, the places I went to, and more. That did not mean that I was not hurting inside. Ever since I started going to counseling, my mental health has improved tremendously. Although some aspects are still hard for me, I have acquired skills to make the moments of anxiety and frustration more manageable. Because of how much counseling therapy has helped me, I hope to have a turn in being an advocate for those in need. I am genuinely passionate about listening to others, being empathetic, having an open mind, and giving advice. Those are qualities that I know I must convey in my future career. I hope to see society starting to take mental health with more seriousness. Being that mental health is often mocked and dismissed, it has been a social issue. We need to pay more attention to its value and importance. Our brain is an organ that we must care for every day of our lives, as with the rest of our bodies. If you think about it, there is a high correlation between mental and physical health. It is vital to take a moment to evaluate ourselves, look after our loved ones, and seek intervention when we know it is necessary. As said by Mahatma Gandhi, be the change you wish to see in the world. It is only up to us to do our job.

Although I am not much of a reader nor a TV watcher, I could easily think of two books that were the most moving and attention-grabbing to me. Those books were Inside Out & Back Again by Thanhha Lai and Unbroken by Laura Hillenbrand. Inside Out & Back Again is a story about a ten-year-old girl named Ha being forced to flee Saigon with her mother and three brothers, due to a major war. Immigrating to the United States was a difficult road for the family, especially Ha. That was what turned Ha's life inside out. Nonetheless, she learned English and adapted to being in a new environment, which is what allowed her to get her life back in a way, hence the term back again. Unbroken tells the life story of an Olympic runner named Louis Zamperini who gained national fame after competing in the 1936 Berlin Olympics. Before then, he miraculously survived numerous trials, including a long sea journey on a raft and then years of cruel treatment as a Japanese prisoner of war. Louis had a rough life growing up and had gotten into trouble. However, his incredible endurance, resilience, stamina, and optimism enabled remarkable servitude and accomplishments for him. In the end, he found his redemption, especially in the Olympics. Both those stories have taught me to keep my head held high and trust in the Lord. All of us are forced to fight some sort of battle that comes from the supernatural force that we call life. I felt encouraged to enrich my relationship with God and trust in him with all my heart. In the past, I have faced obstacles with my mental health that put me at an all-time low. Upon reading those books, I feel that I have become more resilient, strong, and optimistic, as an individual. After graduating next year, my goal is to move on to graduate school to pursue a Master's Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Ultimately, my biggest ambition is to become a counseling therapist specifically for children and adolescents. I have also thought about potentially opening up my practice. I hope that sharing my personal experience and the takeaways I received from those stories with future clients encourages them to keep in mind that good things can and will come. I want to teach them that regardless of the circumstances, you have so much more capability than you think. When you have a dream and put your mind to it, you are destined to make that dream a reality. As said in Matthew 19:26, through God, all things are possible.

Although I am not much of a reader nor a TV watcher, I could easily think of two books that were the most moving and attention-grabbing to me. Those books were Inside Out & Back Again by Thanhha Lai and Unbroken by Laura Hillenbrand. Inside Out & Back Again is a story about a ten-year-old girl named Ha being forced to flee Saigon with her mother and three brothers, due to a major war. Immigrating to the United States was a difficult road for the family, especially Ha. That was what turned Ha's life inside out. Nonetheless, she learned English and adapted to being in a new environment, which is what allowed her to get her life back in a way, hence the term back again. Unbroken tells the life story of an Olympic runner named Louis Zamperini who gained national fame after competing in the 1936 Berlin Olympics. Before then, he miraculously survived numerous trials, including a long sea journey on a raft and then years of cruel treatment as a Japanese prisoner of war. Louis had a rough life growing up and had gotten into trouble. However, his incredible endurance, resilience, stamina, and optimism enabled remarkable servitude and accomplishments for him. In the end, he found his redemption, especially in the Olympics. Both those stories have taught me to keep my head held high and trust in the Lord. All of us are forced to fight some sort of battle that comes from the supernatural force that we call life. I felt encouraged to enrich my relationship with God and trust in him with all my heart. In the past, I have faced obstacles with my mental health that put me at an all-time low. Upon reading those books, I feel that I have become more resilient, strong, and optimistic, as an individual. After graduating next year, my goal is to move on to graduate school to pursue a Master's Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Ultimately, my biggest ambition is to become a counseling therapist specifically for children and adolescents. I have also thought about potentially opening up my practice. I hope that sharing my personal experience and the takeaways I received from those stories with future clients encourages them to keep in mind that good things can and will come. I want to teach them that regardless of the circumstances, you have so much more capability than you think. When you have a dream and put your mind to it, you are destined to make that dream a reality. As said in Matthew 19:26, through God, all things are possible.

Greetings! Welcome one, welcome all. I am Jordan Cruz, a first-generation college student and a psychology major at Stetson University. I also come from a Puerto Rican family on my dad's side. For nearly four years now, I have had my heart set on majoring in psychology. About a couple of years ago, I developed an interest in becoming a counseling therapist for children and adolescents. I have also thought about potentially opening up my practice. This passion has not changed for me whatsoever. Unfortunately, mental health is often underutilized and not taken with enough seriousness. That is one of the reasons why I want to pursue counseling therapy as a career. Sadly, some undermine the value and importance of mental health. I have faced obstacles with my mental health in the past, mainly in 5th and 7th grade. Looking back, those were times when mental health was not being talked about as much as it is now, especially youth mental health. This leads to some snippets of what I went through. During 5th grade, I suffered high, almighty anxiety almost daily. Eventually, physical effects such as nausea, lethargy, fatigue, weight loss, and delayed growth emerged, which made my parents worried. I remember being worried about things other students my age were not worried about. Numerous times, I heard people utter this phrase to me, "Just don't worry." That alone would not take away my anxiety. It was abundantly clear at the time that my anxiety had high control over me. About a few months after starting 7th grade, I discovered that I was being bullied, which took a toll on my mental health. I cried pretty much every day because I felt as though my happiness was stripped from me. I would either cry in the bathroom at school or as soon as I got home and felt safe. I would also cry myself to sleep on most nights. I decided enough was enough and it was time to seek therapy. Being a client in counseling therapy has helped me overcome so much and gain independence. I found light through religion and enriched my relationship with God. I got great advice from my therapist and people in churches, which has encouraged me to keep in mind that the Lord will always have my back. As an individual, I feel that my experience has helped me become more empathetic, understanding, patient and open-minded. I hope that my story helps future clients feel not alone. Everyone out there has a battle to fight that comes from the supernatural force that we call life. Some are obvious and others are not. My dream that I pray comes true is for mental health to become destigmatized. We are capable of making that dream a reality. Although it may be difficult, it will not be impossible. The truth is, the change starts with us.

Mental health needs to be destigmatized and I know in my heart that waiting for it to happen without taking action is not the way. As said by Mahatma Gandhi, be the change you wish to see in the world. It is only up to us to guarantee the change. If we want to enable growth in our society, then it is our job to speak up, look after others, evaluate ourselves, stay educated, spread awareness, and take action in situations. I, in the past have faced obstacles with my mental health. In 5th grade, I suffered from excruciatingly high anxiety that occured almost daily. It led to physical effects such as lethargy, fatigue, weight loss, and delayed growth. In 7th grade, I was a target for bullying, which made me feel vulnerable and inferior. It caused me to cry almost every day, because I was hardly ever happy. I have wonderful parents, a great family, an awesome circle of friends, and the list can go on. You may wonder at first, "Jordan, why were you so upset? You have so much to be thankful for." The fact that my mental health was at an all-time low during those times may come as a shock to some people. Nonetheless, the truth is nobody is immune. It did not matter how many times I made academic accomplishments. It did not matter how many times I earned awards throughout my time. It did not matter how many times I did fun things with my friends and family. It did not matter how many times I laughed and smiled. On the outside, I was happy-go-lucky. On the inside, I fought an internal battle. Meanwhile, I expressed my interest in counseling therapy to my parents. It was a thought I sat on for a long time and finally had the courage to verbalize. They were caring, understanding, and supportive. We all came to a mutual consensus that therapy would be beneficial, and it was. Because of how much therapy has helped me, that is my biggest inspiration for not only getting involved in my community, but giving back to my community. I have seen the same counselor since 7th grade and have referred some people I know to the counseling center I attend. Some of those people have been to the same counseling place and I had a friend actually see the same counselor as me for some time. They all said that therapy was also helpful. This truly shows that intervention can go a long way for those who are struggling. I have influenced change by essentially sharing my story. As a career, I want to become a clinical mental health counselor for children and adolescents. I hope sharing my story to future clients helps them feel not alone in the world. I also hope for a world where mental health is taken more seriously. We need to see and understand its importance. Our brain is an organ that we must care for each day, as with the rest of our body. I hope my story touches those who read it and helps you know your worth.

I embody selflessness by essentially putting others before me. Although it sounds rudimentary, it is true. We live in a civilized society advising us to look out for one another, especially people who are in need. If I were given the choice between having wealth or protecting my friends and family, I would choose their wealth and safety over my wealth and safety. During high school, I was in the Earth First Environmental Club, Kiwanis Educates Youth Club, Fellowship of Christian Athletes Club and National Honors Society. Every summer, I volunteered for Vacation Bible School and taught kids about God. I graduated high school last year with over 100 documented volunteer hours. From doing cleanups, helping out at events, sharing the gospel, and so much more, it is safe to say that I have always valued community service, even if that meant stepping out of my comfort zone. Going out of my way to practice servitude and help others is something near and dear to my heart. For example, there was a time when my mom and I discovered a homeless man while we were getting food. It was easy to tell that he was poor because it appeared that he was frail and starving. He also had a sign saying he was homeless and that anything helps. It broke my heart to see him that way. We decided to give a portion of our meal to the homeless guy. The moment we stopped to hand the man some of our meal, he had a huge smile on his face and was incredibly grateful for our help. One day, I got a message from my dad telling me to call him when possible. When I called, he proceeded to inform me that his truck broke down, he was stuck at the gas station, and he needed my help. I could have made plans to hang out with my friends, but I was worried and wanted to help. I sat with him at the gas station for about four hours until his truck got towed. Thankfully, my dad knew what the problem was, so we went to an auto parts store to get some parts he needed. I drove him home and I was so happy to have saved his day. Although it was not fun waiting a long time for his truck to get towed, every minute was worth it. At the same time, there are instances when we must put ourselves first. We need to evaluate ourselves for the sake of our health and safety. When we are focusing on ourselves and staying successful, that can help to embody selflessness, knowing we are in the right place.

My greatest achievement of my life was earning not one, but two diplomas as a high school graduate last year. Yes, that meant two diplomas in one. You might be confused and wondering, "What do you mean you got two diplomas in one?" The answer is I earned my Associate of Arts Degree and high school diploma simultaneously. There were only about nine or ten other people in my graduating class who graduated high school with a two-year degree. If you were to tell me before high school that I could be seen graduating with an AA degree, I would have called you crazy. Nonetheless, it was a dream that I proudly made a reality through hard work, dedication, perseverance, tenacity, strength, and stamina. During 8th grade, I learned about dual enrollment, which meant taking college classes while in high school. I pondered on the thought for a while and decided that dual enrollment was right for me. I officially started during my sophomore year of high school. I pushed myself toward my limits, boundaries and ambitions because I knew it was a goal that would not be handed to me. From countless hours of studying and turning in projects and papers by 11:59 pm, alongside my high school coursework, all the effort paid off. Every action, big and small was worthwhile, which helped me reach my peak. There is a verse from Matthew 19:20 that says, "With God all things are possible." The biggest takeaway that I have received is that when we trust in God, keep our heads up, and work hard, anything is possible. It is only up to us to fight for what we want. Words are not enough for me to describe the gratitude I have for God and how much he has helped me. He is my backbone and without him, I could not imagine where I would be. Currently, I am a college senior pursuing a major in psychology and a minor in anthropology. Upon graduation next year, my goal is to pursue a master's degree in clinical mental health counseling. Ultimately, I hope to become a counseling therapist for children and adolescents. I have faced mental health hardships, so I want to share my history to help those struggling feel not alone. I also hope to remind people that you are capable of conquering virtually anything. Oftentimes, mental health is underutilized and not taken with enough seriousness. What I hope to achieve is to see mental health destigmatized. It will be an honor to advocate for those in need and help future clients see their potential.

Greetings! My name is Jordan. I am a first-generation college student studying psychology and anthropology at Stetson University. I also come from a single-parent household and it has been this way for almost half of my life. I was 10 when my parents split up and almost 12 at the time they officially got divorced. My dad is still a major part of my life, and I will never take it for granted. Nonetheless, I have always been naturally closer to my mom, even when she and my dad were together. I must admit that the divorce was difficult. I mentally walked at a turtle's pace, meaning I took the time I needed to process and accept the fact that the divorce happened. I slowly adapted to the new normal and took it one day at a time. This changed my perspectives so much and helped me gain valuable knowledge that I can currently apply. Although the divorce changed many aspects from before, I know that is because God had different plans. As a young child, it was hard for me to fully comprehend what was going on. Now that I am older, I better understand that life and the world are not always going to adjust to what we need or desire, which can force us to make tough decisions. This reminded me of a verse from John 13:7 that says, "Jesus replied, you do not realize now what I am doing, but later you will understand." That speaks utter truth because I did not have a clear vision of the Lord's plans and what he had in store for us. However, the Lord is always going to have greater plans mapped out. The key is to live faithfully, trust in him, and know that he is our refuge. As an individual, I feel that the divorce helped me become more resilient. When I was a little girl, it was not always easy for me to adapt to changes, especially those that were out of the blue. If I had to change my routine or face an unfamiliar situation, it was overwhelming for me almost every time. It may sound weird, but I have learned to expect the unexpected. Whenever I have a plan, I prepare myself to see a different plan from God, letting me know it is time to change my course and try something new. This means that what God has established is only for my benefit and he will always be my backbone. Optimism is something I have gained from this experience. I have been taught, especially by my mom, that our thoughts can become things. When we are hopeful and positive, good things can and will come our way. My mom and I are happy people and we would not trade our current life for anything else. As a career, I want to become a counseling therapist for children and adolescents. I hope that sharing my story with future clients helps them not feel alone in the world. Divorce has become increasingly prevalent, which means that more people need support. It will be an honor to have a turn to advocate for those in need. Everyone is fighting a battle. Some are evident and others, not so much. To anyone going through a divorce, whether you are the parent or the child, please know that you are strong, capable, beautiful, worthy, and oh-so loved!

Greetings! My name is Jordan Cruz. I am a senior at Stetson studying psychology and anthropology. My goal after graduation next year is to go straight into graduate school to pursue a career in clinical mental health counseling for children and adolescents. I come from a Hispanic family on my dad's side. The majority of my family members are from Puerto Rico. Unfortunately, having Hispanic descent can increase vulnerability to racism. Although there is an annual Hispanic Heritage Month, there is still not enough appreciation. Nonetheless, I am grateful for my Hispanic heritage and will forever embrace it as a part of my identity. I am blessed to have wonderful people in my life who never once saw me as less than an individual because of it. When I was a little girl, I would beg my grandma to make yellow rice. Looking back, I can see that early on, I savored the aspects of Hispanic heritage. This has encouraged me to not feel inferior and to have open-mindedness. I am a non-denominational Christian, so I learned through religion that God has called us to love everyone. I am all for showing love, compassion, and kindness toward others, regardless of race, ethnic background, culture, religion, etc. Acceptance goes a long way, which is something everybody deserves. Because I want to do counseling in the future, I plan to spread those attributes. I hope to teach future clients how much they matter in this world, so they understand their worth and remember that we are all human. A big chunk of advocating involves showing respect, acceptance, and care. In other words, diversity and inclusion is a major part of the workplace. When I was dual-enrolled in high school, I took a class called Diversity, Culture and Communication. In the fall semester, I took a first-year seminar class at Stetson, which was Diversity in the Classroom. Last semester, I took a junior-seminar class called Leading Diversity in the Workplace. All three of those diversity-related classes truly encouraged me to help others feel included. I am also about seeing from different angles, even while voicing a dissenting opinion on something. What that means is understanding why someone may have different thoughts or feelings, because the truth is, not everyone is going to agree with you on everything. Diversity is such a beautiful tapestry that should always be embraced. You matter in this world, you are worthy, you are capable, and you are loved.

Being a Christian and having a strong relationship with the Lord has been the major contributing factor into my pro-life position. One of the Ten Commandments instructs us to not murder. Although abortion has not always been illegal like homicide, I see it as a form of murder. Killing anyone is an abomination, and that includes an unborn baby. Even though the Bible does not have a verse that directly tells us not to commit to abortion, there is evidence that one of the things that the Lord despises is murder. I was in the Fellowship of Christian Athlete's club during high school and am currently a participant at my university. On Monday's, weekly huddle's were held, which involved a guest speaker. One night, I had a preacher talk to us about how we should repent, deny our flesh, and separate ourselves from worldly aspects when having a relationship with the Lord. He pointed out that abortion is sinful and just because many people in the world don't agree does not mean you have to see eye-to-eye. In my opinion, it is nonsensical to see manslaughter as wrong and agree with abortion being a choice for women. I always remind myself that God has plans better than our own. Even an unplanned pregnancy is something God knew would happen far beforehand. There is always an alternative to an abortion for women who are not ready to be a parent. According to research I did, abortion is not only harmful to the baby, but the mother as well. Women who get abortions are likely to commit suicide, develop an eating disorder, face spiritual consequences, and other long-term complications than those who do not get abortions. I do not currently participate in pro-life related programs, but I am still continuing to learn and educate others on the harmful effects of abortion. In fact, I took developmental psychology while I was dual-enrolled in high school. There was a discussion post that asked us to give our opinion of abortion. In summation, I basically said that I do not see how it is beneficial, especially for spiritual reasons. The majority of my classmates had dissenting opinions. Nonetheless, I knew that the Lord was happy to see that I did not follow what the world around me had to say. At the same time, I know I cannot control other people's thoughts, so I did my best not to come off as harsh. Everyone deserves to have a life. The Lord formed all of us and established our goings far before we were born. The key is to trust in him, know that he loves you unconditionally, and last but not least, never give up.

I want to help destigmatize mental health. At first, you may wonder, how are you able to do that? Although it may be hard, that does not mean that it is never impossible. I am currently a senior at Stetson University studying psychology and will hopefully graduate within the next year. Nonetheless, that does not mean I will be done yet. After graduation, I plan to attend graduate school to earn my master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Ultimately, my biggest goal is to become a counseling therapist for children and adolescents. Sadly, mental health is often underutilized and not taken seriously. Two-thirds of people globally do not seek treatment for their mental health, despite the success rate being between seventy and ninety percent. This shows that there is inadequate balance because very few people get some form of help, which can go a long way. In fact, during my 5th and 7th-grade years, I faced hardships that took a toll on my mental health for a while. From there, I started attending monthly counseling sessions and I still to this day see the same therapist. I am happy to say that because of therapy, my mental health has made so much progress. But unfortunately, many people cannot say the same. That is why I will never take the opportunity of therapy for granted. Looking back, mental health was not talked about as much as it is now. However, there is still room for improvement in our society. I hope to see a world where mental health services are more readily accessible and affordable for those who are struggling. Most people see their primary doctor for an annual physical. What if people were allowed to get a yearly mental health evaluation by a mental health professional? I firmly believe that the obstacles I faced helped me understand the mental health importance and become more empathetic as an individual. I have also become increasingly passionate about having a turn to advocate for those in need, which would be an honor. I genuinely value hearing someone out with open ears and comforting them with open arms when they need it the most. Giving advice and relating to others are things that I truly enjoy, especially since God blessed me with a wonderful support system, from my therapist, parents, family and close friends. If I were to receive this scholarship, it will only inch me closer to my dreams. When it comes to dreams, I am all about turning a dream into a goal and then a reality. What I envision in the future may not be handed to me, but I am more than willing to work for it.

Greetings! My name is Jordan. I am a first-generation college student studying psychology and anthropology at Stetson University. As a career, I want to become a counseling therapist for children and adolescents. With that, I hope to help guarantee that my mental health becomes destigmatized. Unfortunately, mental health is underutilized and not taken with enough seriousness. If you think about it, our brain is a delicate organ that we must take care of daily. It is safe to say that I have learned those things and many more through my experience. Let's get real. I have faced obstacles with my mental health. 5th grade was when my journey began. I suffered high, almighty anxiety almost every day. I would describe the anxiety as a ticking bomb counting down the number of seconds until it was time for darkness to explode and fill me up from head to toe. Eventually, physical effects emerged, which included fatigue, lethargy, nausea, decreased hunger, and weight loss. My parents were worried because it became abundantly clear to them that I was struggling. In 6th grade, my anxiety went down and I started to laugh and smile more. This gave me hope that my mental health would be back to where it was before, or so I thought. When I entered 7th grade, I was a victim of bullying, which took a toll on me mentally. Nearly every day, I would cry, either in the bathroom at school or as soon as I got home and felt safe. Oftentimes, I cried myself to sleep, because of the sorrow, loneliness, apprehension, and occasional anguish finding its way underneath my skin. Meanwhile, I realized enough was enough. I could not try to continue fighting the internal battle on my own anymore. After some time and courage, I finally opened up to my parents and expressed my interest in partaking in counseling therapy, a thought I sat on for a while. We came to a mutual consensus that seeing a counselor would be right for me, and it was. From there, I started attending monthly counseling sessions and I still to this day see the same therapist. I am proud to say that my mental health has improved tremendously, thanks to my wonderful therapist and parents. My mental health journey has led to my career aspiration. I feel that the hardships made me more empathetic, understanding, and open-minded as a person. Anytime someone opens up to me about a setback that they encounter, it is easy for me to put myself in that person's shoes and say that I can relate. My experience has not cursed my life but has rather enabled so much personal growth that can be conveyed from here on. What I hope to do for future clients is to help them feel not alone and remind them that they are capable of conquering virtually anything. Furthermore, another thing I want to see in the world is mental health receiving more respect and awareness. Nobody should ever have to feel ashamed of their mental struggles, as it can be equated to having a cold, which is out of our control. The truth is that it is okay to not be okay. It is okay to seek intervention, it is okay to have a hard time, and it is okay to take a break. I hope that my message touches those reading it from behind the screen and helps you know your worth.

I want to help destigmatize mental health. To me, being a Psychology major is a way to guarantee the change we desire to see. In terms of a career, I want to become a counseling therapist for children and adolescents. I genuinely value listening, hearing others out, giving advice, and having empathy. It is safe to say that I have faced obstacles with my mental health in the past, which has enabled me to learn important keys that I can apply right now and in the future. Numerous times, I have had friends open up to me about the hardships that they faced. Every time, I did my best to listen, provide support, provide healthy suggestions, and give the best advice possible. I have been told by many people that I am a great listener and give wonderful advice. Some people have even said to me that counseling would be a great fit. This is just part of how I developed my career ambition. Nonetheless, the main reason is that I want to help people feel not alone in the world. Because of what I faced, I feel that I have become more empathetic. Anytime someone shares a tough challenge they are going through, I take a moment to put myself in the person's shoes, imagine how it feels, and listen. I am all about relating to others, because trust me, I have been there too. In 5th grade, I faced high waves of anxiety almost every day. Eventually, physical effects such as lethargy, fatigue, nausea, and weight loss emerged. When I entered 7th grade, I was a victim of bullying, which made me vulnerable and inferior. It caused me to cry almost every day and rarely feel happy. After lots of time and courage, I finally poured out my feelings to my parents which I bottled up. I expressed my interest in going to therapy, as it was a thought I sat on for a while. We came to a mutual consensus that therapy would be right for me. I used to be incredibly private about my mental health history. Now, I am more willing to publicize what I endured, especially to help others know that they are never the only ones struggling in the world. I am proud to say that my mental health has improved tremendously. I still attend monthly sessions with the same therapist and I could not be more happy with the outcome. I hope to promise the same result for future clients. Unfortunately, mental health is an underutilized aspect. In other words, it seldom gets the respect and awareness it needs. Looking back, mental health was not as talked about, especially youth mental health. There is still room for improvement. However, when we spread awareness, look out for others, and take care of ourselves, we can break the stigma. Although it may seem difficult, it will not be impossible.

Even though society is trying to do a better job, I firmly believe that there is still room for improvement in its way of responding to the problems of the disadvantaged. It is sad to know that there are disadvantaged groups. The covid-19 pandemic caused the world to do a complete 180. Not only were people's health and lives affected, but poverty and racial injustice skyrocketed. When it came to Breonna Taylor and George Floyd getting killed and Asian hate increasing, my blood was boiling to learn how blatantly racist people were toward those innocent lives. At that point, it was more like a war than an argument. The Black Lives Matter movement and protests have pointed the United States in the right direction, but some races are still not getting the justice and proper treatment that they deserve. For example, there is a racial wage gap. African Americans are paid less than whites at every education level, which is unfair. Race, ethnic background, and other demographics should not dictate who a person is. This is something that has yet to improve. The ongoing threat of climate change is another thing that society needs to keep a better eye on. Global warming has been becoming increasingly evident in the world. Because human impact is the main culprit, our society should think of more civilized ways to promote a healthier planet. That could mean implementing more waste that is biodegradable, setting limits on what we throw away, evaluating harmful gas emissions, and more. Sea levels are rising, which is a step toward something larger and worse potentially happening. I recently learned that China is working on becoming a green economy because it remains the world's largest emitter of greenhouse gases. One of the things that China is doing is creating electric cards to reduce air pollution while people are driving. If more countries did that, then the world would be inching away from global warming rather than toward global warming. If society does not change anytime soon, the threat will only grow larger. Although our society still has a long way to go in solving problems like those, that does not make us incapable. Meeting major goals may be difficult, but it certainly will not be impossible. The change starts with us, so it is up to us to take action. We as a society can do virtually anything we set our minds to.

Although it sounds basic, my Alexa and cellphone have been game-changers. Both of those types of technology act like a brain in a way. If there is an important errand I need to tackle, counting on my Alexa and phone to remind me gives me peace. All I need to do is voice the reminder to my Alexa or incorporate it into my electronic calendar. Let's face it. There are many days I get so busy to the point of becoming scatterbrained and forgetting little things that need to be done. That is why I find my phone and Alexa dependable for reminders. I genuinely value prioritizing, being proactive, staying motivated, and in turn getting things done. Another reason why I am thankful for my phone is because I can stay in touch with people near and far. Ever since I finished high school last year, my graduating class dispersed. I knew from the get-go that the graduation ceremony was the last time everyone would be in the same place together, which I was prepared for. We have all parted ways and we are all on different paths, and because of it, communication can be scarce. Nonetheless, technology has enabled us to stay in touch. To me, even a simple text message saying hello and asking how the person is doing is meaningful. It is mind-boggling to think how much cell phones have become our lifeline anymore. However, if I were to be phoneless, I could not think of any other way I would be staying in touch with others. Furthermore, I could not think of any other way of getting help in an emergency. This shows how long of a way the world has come because of technology. I will never take being a text or phone call away for granted.

Greetings! My name is Jordan Cruz. I am a first-generation college student studying psychology at Stetson University. Ultimately, my career goal is to become a counselor for children and adolescents and potentially open my practice. It is safe to say that my experience with mental health has led to my ambition. Needless to say, there is so much that I have learned through what I encountered. My mental health journey started in fifth grade. Almost every day, I suffered from high waves of anxiety that became my security blanket. Eventually, the anxiety became normalized for me because of how often and how long it went on. However, it ruined me to the point physical effects emerged. I constantly felt sick, tired, lethargic, and low on energy. As a result, I lost lots of weight and was not growing. In sixth grade, I was able to get my anxiety under control. I laughed and smiled much more, which had me hopeful that I would be happy again, or so I thought. When I entered seventh grade, I became a victim of bullying, which took a toll on my mental state. This time, I was going through possible depression. It made me feel felt numb, lost, and inferior, which caused me to cry almost daily. Not only did I have more sadness, but my anxiety increased due to trust issues. There was an instance when two girls I knew at the end of the school year put me through a terrible situation that got underneath my skin and left me mentally distraught. Without going into the nitty-gritty of the situation, it was severe enough that the girls got suspended. It was also severe enough that I could have gotten seriously sick. My parents noticed the emotional changes in me, even though I tried to conceal them. They were worried because it became abundantly clear to them that I was struggling. Although it took time and courage, I finally opened up to them and expressed my interest in counseling. I sat on the thought for so long. I pondered hard about seeing a counselor and even did some research. We came to a mutual consensus that counseling would be beneficial, and it was. I have been attending monthly sessions with the same counseling therapist ever since. I am proud to say that my mental health has improved tremendously. I still have moments of anxiety and feeling lost, but counseling therapy has helped me acquire more effective coping skills for those episodes. I am happier and more independent than I was before. I firmly believe that my experience was meant to be. I have become more empathetic, understanding, and open-minded toward others. If someone talks to me about a hardship they face, I am quick to listen, put myself in the person's shoes and say that I have been there too. I have become more passionate about helping others and giving advice, hence why I want to give back by having a turn to counsel people. I hope future clients know that they are never alone in whatever they are facing. Furthermore, mental health is an aspect that needs to be destigmatized. Looking back, mental health was not as focused on as much as it is now. However, there is still room for improvement. Sadly, some people do not take mental health with enough seriousness. The truth is, facing bumps on the road mentally is equivalent to catching a cold, which is far out of our control and never our fault. While not everyone has a diagnosed mental illness, everyone has a brain that needs to be cared for daily. It is more than our head and neck having a connection. I want everyone to know that it is okay to not be okay. You should never feel ashamed of what you face. Mental health does not care how blissful your life is. I can easily say that I have learned this myself. Despite having a wonderful family, amazing teachers, a great circle of friends, and so much more, I still fought an internal battle deep down inside. It may come as a shock to you that I was still not happy, even with a great life. Nonetheless, that does not mean that I was not bound to face obstacles. Everyone has battles that they are fighting. Some are obvious, and others not so much. My experience has not cursed me. If anything, my experience has molded me into the individual I am today. If it were not for what I went through, I probably would not have learned as much as I did. I hope that my story touches those reading from behind the screen and helps you know your worth.

Greetings! My name is Jordan Cruz. I am a junior studying psychology at Stetson University. My ultimate goal is to become a mental health counselor for children and adolescents. Considering that I am one of the individuals that have faced mental health obstacles, it is safe to say that I have learned so much from my experience. The main reason why I chose this career path is because I feel inspired to have a turn to advocate for those in need. Over the summer, I am hoping to volunteer at a counseling center and then intern in the fall. I am looking forward to learning more about what the counseling and mental health field have to offer. During 5th grade, I suffered high, almighty anxiety almost every day. Due to the intensity of the anxiety, physical effects eventually emerged. I often felt tired, lethargic, sick, and hardly ever hungry. As a result, I lost a lot of weight and was not growing, which became worrisome for my parents. In 6th grade, I started to feel happier and laugh more. It gave me hope that my mental health would be back to where it was before, or so I thought. When I entered 7th grade, I became a target for bullying, which made me feel sad, discouraged, belittled, and inferior. Because of it, I cried nearly every day, either in the school bathrooms or as soon as I got home and felt safe. Additionally, there were many nights when I would cry myself to sleep. For a long time, I sat on the thought of going to counseling. At that point, I knew bottling up my feelings would only do more harm than good. That is when I opened up to my parents about what I was going through and expressed my interest in therapy. Although it took time and courage, I could tell they were caring, understanding, and supportive of my wishes. We came to a mutual consensus that therapy would be beneficial. From there, I started attending monthly counseling therapy sessions. To this day, I am still seeing the same therapist. Despite some moments of stress and frustration, I am proud to say that my mental health has improved tremendously. My experience has helped me become more open-minded and empathetic toward others. Whenever someone voices a hardship that comes to their way or talks about their mental health, I take a moment to put myself in their shoes and express that I can relate. I hope to help future clients feel not alone in the world. The truth is, you are never alone. More people are struggling than you think, hence why you should never assume someone's life. Despite prospering academically, having wonderful teachers, amazing parents, a great family, and devoted friends, I still fought an internal battle. With mental health, you cannot detect what is on the outside. Another major key I have taken away is mental health needs to be destigmatized. Unfortunately, it is not taken with enough seriousness. Many schools offer opportunities to learn how to administer CPR. What if schools gave students the chance to learn how to handle someone in a mental health crisis? A mental illness is equivalent to catching a cold, which you cannot help. Therefore, I want to help clients not feel ashamed of their struggles. The bottom line is, it is okay to not be okay. It is okay to struggle, it is okay to seek intervention, and it is okay to take a break.

Having the freedom to speak our minds allows us to reach our full potential. To make this clear, not every college student is going to have the same path. If it was not for our freedom and liberty, we would not be able to paint a picture of our dream future. We have the opportunity to live the American Dream, which is something often taken for granted. To me, living the American Dream means becoming who we want to be. Because not everyone walks on the same path, that means we all have different interests, passions, and dislikes. For example, I am no math expert. I think math is too complicated and like a whole other language. The good thing is that some jobs and fields require little to no math. Math is my least favorite subject, while psychology is my favorite subject. However, there are people whose desires are the other way around, and that is okay. Aside from having different interests and passions, I firmly believe that free speech enables open-mindedness and respect. Diversity hugely involves different opinions. Even when I voice a dissenting stance, I make sure to speak with respect and not try to dissuade others, especially if what they are saying does not pose harm. I do my best to stand in the shoes of both sides and educate myself first. All those things allow us to think independently, while also guaranteeing mutual growth. It would be wrong to indoctrinate others, meaning force an idea down someone else's throat. We are only in control of our opinions and thoughts, not everyone else's. Overall, free speech allows us to do what is best for ourselves. In college and life, we need to learn to follow our gut, listen to ourselves, and speak up. There are going to be situations that require us to articulate what is needed to escape. In America, we all have a voice and we deserve to use it. Freedom of speech does not get enough gratitude. In our society, we are blessed to have that allowance. Many other countries in the world cannot say the same, which is sad. I can only imagine feeling trapped, manipulated, and controlled if we were not allowed to have a say. It is vital for our development, goals, and potential all around. The truth is, every word that is spoken from our tongue has meaning and life.

My dream version of my future self is a counselor and mental health advocate, especially for children and adolescents.

It is safe to say that I have faced obstacles with my mental health in the past. My mental health journey started in 5th grade. Looking back, I would describe myself as a worrier. I suffered from high anxiety almost every day and could not demystify why. Eventually, the anxiety led to physical effects such as nausea, fatigue, lethargy, and weight loss. I felt as though there was a ticking bomb in my mind counting down the number of seconds until it was time for darkness to explode and eat away my happiness. When I entered middle school, my anxiety seemed to have gotten better. I laughed and smiled so much more and felt happy again. I was optimistic that my mental health was back to where it was before, or so I thought. For the majority of 7th grade, I was a victim of bullying, which made me feel vulnerable and inferior. During that time, I was possibly facing an episode of depression. I often felt discouraged and ridiculed to the point I cried almost every day, whether it was in the bathroom at school, or as soon as I got home and felt safe. Here and there, I even felt afraid to go to school, because the bullying made me lose trust in some of my peers. Sadly, those feelings became normalized for me. I spent almost two years trying to conceal all my feelings. However, I knew that I needed to speak up, especially since my parents became worried. It was abundantly clear to them that I was struggling. Although it took time and courage, I expressed what I was going through to my parents. They were caring, understanding, and supportive. We mutually agreed that counseling therapy would be right for me. From there, I started attending monthly counseling sessions. Ever since then, I can say that my overall mental health has improved tremendously. Because of therapy, I have acquired more effective coping strategies for episodes of anxiety, sadness, and any unpleasant feelings I may experience. As a career, I want to become a counselor for children and adolescents and potentially open my practice. I feel inspired to have a turn to advocate for those in need. Although my experience was troublesome at times, I firmly believe that everything I endured has helped me become more empathetic as a person. Whenever I learn that someone faces a dilemma, I take a moment to step inside their shoes and find ways to relate. It is easy for me to say that I have been there too and I know how it feels. I genuinely have a passion for listening and giving advice to people. I hope my future clients feel not alone, because you are never alone. Another major takeaway I have received is mental health is a subject that needs to be destigmatized. Looking back, mental health was not being assessed as much as it is now. Even then, it is still not taken seriously. As a society, there is still room for improvement. Nonetheless, the more we advocate, and the more expertise we gain, the closer we can get to breaking the stigma. A mental health problem is equivalent to catching a cold, which is inevitable. I hope to see a world of people feeling less ashamed of their struggles and spreading awareness. We all need to take a moment to evaluate ourselves. My friendly reminder is it is okay to not be okay. It is okay to have a hard time, it is okay to seek intervention, and it is okay to take a break.

My favorite song on Taylor Swift's 1989 album would have to be Shake It Off, because it teaches me not to let negative people destroy my life. When she states in her song that the players will play, haters will hate, heart breakers will break, fakers will fake, and she will shake it off, I am reminded to do the same thing. If someone tries to tease me or seeks to bring me down in any way, I shake off the nasty energy, as if it was dirt that got on my shoulder. In fact, I was bullied for most of 7th grade, which took a toll on my mental health. I came across what I would call two-faced people. In other words, whenever the bullies talked to me face-to-face, they were kind. When I saw them talking to other people, I overheard them verbalizing trashy remarks about me. For a long time, I tried ignoring the bullies and not caring about what they said about me. However, because it continued, I knew that I needed to stand my ground and speak up. I told my teacher and she set the class straight. Unfortunately, the bullying continued, but I learned that people's words and intentions are completely uncontrollable. The only person you can be in total charge of is yourself. Thankfully, the bullying stopped after that year. From my experience, I have learned that you do not need to please others. It may sound harsh, but not everyone is going to love you. Nonetheless, the way to win over the bullies is to be happy, successful, and 'Shake It Off' as Taylor Swift would say. Genuine friendships involve love, support and respect. True friends are also apologetic if they inadvertently hurt your feelings. People that choose to use you, resent you, and have no care in the world are a waste of time. The people you are around can make a tremendous difference. That is why it is important to have healthy friendships and relationships. When you realize that the friendship or relationship you are in is toxic, that is when you it is vital to take action, cut off the negative influences, and 'Shake It Off' like it never happened. It is equivalent to the saying, "Pick yourself up, dust yourself off, and start over." I have been listening to Taylor Swift's songs ever since I was a child. There is a long list I could write of songs I favor and 'Shake it Off' is one of them. To anyone reading from behind the screen, my friendly reminder is you are beautiful, you are worthy, you are strong, and you are loved. When you find yourself in a sticky situation with a bully that treats you like dirt, do not forget to get back up and 'Shake It Off.'

As an individual that has faced obstacles with mental health, there is so much I have learned. Everything that I have taken away has turned into a passion. During 5th grade, I suffered high, almighty anxiety almost daily. Anxiety was something I concealed and wore as a security blanket. Eventually, physical effects such as fatigue, lethargy, nausea and weight loss emerged, which was worrisome for my parents. It became abundantly clear to them that I was struggling. When I entered 6th grade, I felt happier and had less anxiety. I was hopeful that my mental health would be back to where it was before, or so I thought. During 7th grade, I was a victim of bullying, which made me feel vulnerable, inferior, and like a burden on my peers, friends, teachers, and family. I felt as though the happiness was stripped from me. Because of it, I cried almost every day. I would either cry in the bathroom at school or as soon as I got home and felt safe, which are areas where I was not seen. I was genuinely at my lowest when nobody knew. Although it took time and courage, I finally spoke to my parents about what I was going through. It was a relief to pour out the bottle of apprehension, pessimism, sadness, depression, and anguish. They were caring, understanding and supportive. Right then and there, we all mutually agreed on counseling therapy. Meanwhile, I started attending monthly counseling therapy sessions. In fact, I still to this day see the same therapist. She is open-minded, knowledgeable, kind, and has great expertise. Post graduation, I want to become a Cognitive Behavioral Therapist for children and adolescents and potentially open a counseling center. I am pleased to say that my mental health has improved tremendously because of therapy. Not only that, but my experience has enabled so much growth. I have become more empathetic as a person and can easily put myself in other people's shoes, whenever they open up to me about the obstacles they face. I feel inspired to have a turn to advocate for those in need and give back to my community. I want to guarantee the same results for future clients. Mental health is an often underutilized aspect. It is a subject that needs to be destigmatized. There is a major gap between mental and physical health. Most schools provide opportunities for students to take classes and learn how to administer CPR. What if students were given opportunities to learn how to help themselves or someone in a mental health crisis? This should be an attention-grabber informing us that we need to normalize medical intervention for mental illnesses. Sadly, mental health is not always taken with enough seriousness. I hope to see a world of more togetherness, awareness, and care for mental health. It may not be easy, but it is never impossible. A mental illness is often inevitable. The truth is, it is equivalent to catching a cold, which is not your fault. The more words like this get spread, the closer we can get to breaking the stigma and filling the gap. I hope to help those struggling feel not alone. It may sound repetitive, but my reminder is you are never alone. In addition, it is okay to not be okay. It is okay to feel down. It is okay to seek intervention. Last, but not least, it is okay to take a break. You are worthy, you are beautiful, you are strong, you are capable, and you are loved.

Although I am no bookworm, I could make a list of books that touched me. Here is just a couple of the many that I found incredibly meaningful. During 8th grade, I read the book Inside Out and Back Again. It was about a young girl named Ha who lives in Vietnam with a father who is missing in action during the Vietnam War. The Fall of Saigon was a major event that forced her mother, Ha, and her three brothers to flee across the sea to Alabama. Saying it was hard for them to adapt to an entirely new environment is an understatement, especially with getting to know a language and education outside of their own. Nonetheless, they were given the chance to restart their lives, which allowed them to find the light at the end of the tunnel. That same year, I read the novel Unbroken, which is a 2010 non-fiction book by Laura Hillenbrand. It is a biography of World War II veteran Louis Zamperini, a former Olympic track star who survived a plane crash in the Pacific Theater, spent 47 consecutive days drifting on a raft, and then survived almost several years as a prisoner of war (POW) in three Japanese (POW) camps. There were many times he faced punishment, due to unethical decisions he made. However, he found his redemption and came out stronger in the end. Needless to say, both of the characters went through traumatic events. Unequivocally, their endurance, strength, and stamina allowed them to thrive, despite what they encountered. They were resilient and optimistic through the hardships. I have been taught to never take anything for granted. In the blink of an eye, everything can change. I am sure many of us have heard of this famous saying, "You never know what you have until it is gone." This speaks utter truth because we must be prepared for anything to happen and have thankfulness for what we have. What I also learned from those novels is to always keep your head held high. No matter what circumstances you face, you are never alone. The truth is, everything is temporary. This has taught me to have trust in the Lord, be patient, and be still, knowing he is in control of everything. Everyone has battles of some kind to fight. Some are obvious, and others not so much. We may not have it all together, but together we have it all.

Greetings! My name is Jordan Cruz. I am a first-generation college student and a psychology major at Stetson University. What I want to do is destigmatize mental health. Unfortunately, it is often underutilized and not taken with enough seriousness. I know plenty of people that have faced rough patches with their mental health. I, myself, am one of those people included. 5th and 7th grade were the times when I was at my lowest when virtually nobody knew. Looking back, those were times when mental health was not being talked about as much as it is now, especially youth mental health. I remember battling anxiety almost every day in 5th grade, which led to physical effects, such as fatigue, lethargy, nausea, and weight loss. During 7th grade, I was a victim of bullying, which made me cry almost daily. When I was out and about, I would hide the feelings and wear a smile on my face, as if it were a sticker. As soon as I was home and felt safe, there came the meltdown, consisting of full-blown tears, guilt and occasional anger nearly every time. Although it took time and courage, I finally opened up to my parents about what I was facing. They were caring, understanding, and supportive, and agreed to get me professional help. From there, I started seeing a counseling therapist every month. I still to this day see the same counselor, and I am proud to say that my mental health has improved tremendously. My overall experience has increased my passion for mental health. Post graduation, I want to become a Cognitive Behavioral Therapist for children and adolescents and potentially open my counseling center. It will be an honor to have a turn to advocate for those in need. I genuinely enjoy empathizing, providing support, giving advice, and relating to others. The trials I endured are not a curse. They have only helped me develop my aspiration and grow as an individual. This will enable me to put myself in the shoes of future clients and help them feel not alone. If I were to receive this scholarship, it will be unequivocally helpful throughout my college adventure. Ultimately, it will inch me toward my ultimate dream. As a society, there is still room for improvement in breaking the current stigma. Although it may not always be easy, it is never impossible. The change starts with us and is only up to us.

Greetings! My name is Jordan Cruz. I am a first-generation college student studying psychology and anthropology at Stetson University. Ultimately, I want to become a Cognitive Behavioral Therapist for children and adolescents and potentially open my counseling center. I know that is going to require college, but I am more than willing to work toward that goal. Nonetheless, I can only get closer and closer as I go. In fact, I graduated high school with an Associate of Arts degree from Daytona State College last year. I was in a dual-enrollment program, which meant that I took college and high school classes simultaneously. I started dual enrollment in my sophomore year and graduated with the degree. Having two years under my belt has been tremendously helpful and because of it, there is a chance I will graduate from Stetson within the next year. Not only will I be the first in the family to earn a bachelor's degree, but I will also be the youngest. In a way, some family history is made, as I am the youngest member to already have a degree in general. Needless to say, dual enrollment took tons of effort and dedication. Graduating with a degree was not something handed to me. It did not always come easy, but I had my mind set on the goal and I felt determined to make it a reality. Looking back, there were some restless hours of homework at night and on the weekends. Every assignment turned in before 11:59 PM, every note taken, and every hour I studied was worthwhile. Overall, every action that I took came from my heart. Although college can be difficult at times, remembering my experience with dual enrollment reminds me to keep going. I feel inspired to chase my dreams and never give up. When it comes to ambitions, I see myself as a strong-willed, goal-oriented, hard-headed, go-getter individual. Having those traits helps me to stay motivated and maintain that internal drive to succeed. What I hope to do is help people, especially children and adolescents, overcome the doubts, fears, and obstacles they face. My mental health was hit in 5th and 7th grade. Those were times when mental health was not being looked at as much as it is now. Therefore, I want to show others that I can relate and that they are never alone. My experiences have enabled me to put myself in other people's shoes and have empathy. Mental health is an underutilized aspect, which has me passionate about spreading awareness and its importance. It is a subject that deserves more respect and needs to be destigmatized. My promise to future clients is that they should never feel ashamed. A mental illness is equivalent to having a cold. The truth is, it is far out of your control and not your fault. What I hope to see in our society and the overall world is mental health being taken more seriously. My friendly reminder is that you can conquer virtually anything that you put your mind to. Stay optimistic, work hard, give advice, and please do not forget to always take good care of yourselves.

Greetings! My name is Jordan Cruz. I am a first-generation college student studying psychology and anthropology at Stetson University. I firmly believe that absolutely everyone is capable of making a positive impact on the world, even if it is through small acts. Ultimately, my biggest ambition is to become a Cognitive Behavioral Therapist for children and adolescents and potentially open up my own counseling center. Mental health is a subject that deserves more respect and needs to be destigmatized. Considering that I am one of the individuals that have faced obstacles with their mental health, that is probably the biggest takeaway I have received. 5th and 7th grade were the years when I was genuinely at my lowest when almost nobody knew. Looking back, mental health was not being focused on as much as it is now, especially youth mental health. This reminds me that there has been some progress in breaking the stigma. Students are allowed to take mental health days, hotlines have been implemented, and there are more services for those with mental problems. Nonetheless, we still have a ways to go. There is still a gap between mental and physical health. Unfortunately, mental health is still not taken seriously at times. If you think about it, our mental and physical health are highly correlated. It is easy to say that I have learned from my experience. During 5th grade, I suffered from high waves of anxiety almost every day. It got to the point where I was often feeling nauseated and lethargic. In addition, I lost a lot of weight because I hardly ate. Although it took time and courage, I opened up to my parents about what I was going through and expressed interest in going to therapy. They were incredibly supportive and agreed to help. From there, I started attending monthly counseling therapy sessions. Since then, I am proud to say that my mental health has improved tremendously. Unequivocally, intervention goes a long way. It will be an honor to have a turn to advocate for those in need. Sharing my experience will enable me to put myself in other people's shoes and have empathy. I hope for future clients to know that they are never alone. I hope to teach them that they should never feel ashamed. A mental illness can be equivalent to catching a cold. The truth is, it is far out of control and not your fault. Telling my story and talking about what I learned may encourage others to evaluate themselves and understand why self-care is vital. While not everyone has a mental illness, everyone has a brain that needs to be cared for daily. Finally, I hope to see a world of mental health gaining more awareness and respect. As a society, we must educate, evaluate ourselves, look after one another, and take action in serious situations. We must see the importance and spread the importance. Thus, we can break the stigma and fill the gap.

Considering I am one of the individuals who has faced obstacles with their mental health, it would take more than an essay to share everything I have learned from my experience. 5th and 7th grade were the years when my mental health was hit the most. Looking back, those were the times when mental health was not being looked at as much as it is now, especially youth mental health. In 5th grade, I endured high, almighty anxiety on an almost daily basis. Eventually, physical effects emerged as a result. Those included nausea, fatigue, lethargy, and weight loss, which was worrisome for my parents. It became abundantly clear to them that I was genuinely struggling. Fast forward to 7th grade. I was a target of bullying, which made me feel vulnerable and inferior. From there, I likely developed depression. Nearly every day, I would cry, either in the school bathrooms, when I got home, or at bedtime. I felt torn from being ridiculed. During those times, I would wear a smile on my face, as if it were a sticker. On the outside, I was happy-go-lucky. Deep down inside, I fought an internal battle. When I was out and about, I would conceal my true feelings. Even then, people at times thought I was sad or depressed. As soon as I was home and felt safe, the meltdown consisting of hours of tears, guilt, and occasional anger would come. I felt my happiness being stripped from me. Although it took time and courage, I finally opened up to my parents about what I was going through. I poured out the bottle of negative emotions and felt relief, especially seeing how understanding, caring, and supportive they were. They listened to my concerns and agreed that therapy would be beneficial, and it was. Going to therapy has helped me acquire more effective coping skills. Since then, I have been speaking with a wonderful counseling therapist who is incredibly knowledgeable and has great expertise. Because of therapy, there are so many things that I do to maintain my mental wellness that I did not think of during those times. One of the things that I do to stay mentally healthy is going outside for at least fifteen minutes each day. Studies have shown that safe doses of sunlight are beneficial for your physical and mental health. Most of the time, I go on the hammock and listen to my favorite music, which makes a vast difference in my mood and stress levels. Furthermore, I am a non-denominational Christian and very spiritual. I say my prayers, especially when I am feeling knocked down. I turn to the Lord and remind myself to trust in him, be still, and have patience, knowing that he will guide me through anything that comes my way. While reading the Bible and watching spiritual videos, I feel the Lord speaking to me, which is comforting. Maintaining a nutritious diet is a skill that has helped me stay a healthy and happy individual. The truth is, you are what you eat, which is why an essential regimen goes a long way. Although not everyone has a mental illness, absolutely everyone has mental health. Everyone has a brain that needs taken care of 24/7. Your mental state can dictate your performance. Mental health is a concept that needs to be destigmatized. Practice self-care, seek intervention when needed, and take time to check up on yourselves and your loved ones. Last but not least, never feel ashamed. It is okay to not be okay.

Greetings! My name is Jordan Cruz. I am a first-generation college student studying psychology and anthropology at Stetson University. Before I begin, I want to give a huge thank you for this scholarship opportunity. I feel as though I finally have the chance to share exactly why I am passionate about Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia. Ever since the pandemic hit in 2020, my family and I have been navigating dementia with my great-grandmother Audrey. At the time, I only knew very little about dementia and what it does to the individual. About a year prior, we noticed small changes in her memory. I thought it was normal aging, because I learned the older you get, the easier forgetfulness is. As with everyone, I forget certain things at times. Let's be real. It is impossible to remember everything. However, she took a turn for the worst during the pandemic. Over the past several years, she has declined significantly. It has gotten to the point where she can no longer live or take care of herself on her own. On top of her dementia, she has glaucoma, which is a condition that can majorly impair your eyesight. At this point, she is on the brink of blindness. She is also extremely hard of hearing. Furthermore, there were moments when she would wander and not know where she was, even when she lived in her house. Right now, she is 93. Over the summer of last year, we moved her into an assisted living facility with a memory care unit. We tried to keep her living at home for as long as we could, but we knew deep down inside that it was not a sustainable solution. We became increasingly concerned for her health and safety. My mom would go to her house to check on her almost every morning before work. After every visit with my nana, she felt numb and lost, not knowing what to do and not wanting to leave her alone. I felt the same way because I would visit her occasionally, and leaving her was painful every time. Unfortunately, she no longer knows who I am. To her, every family member is a stranger. She even does not know who she is at times. Dementia can be seen as an invisible Pacman eating away someone's brain, simply because it destroys memory and other important mental functions, including recognition. It is hard to process the fact that my nana is not the nana that I have known and loved for my whole life. Although it is sad that she no longer has memories of us, I know all I can do is carry all the best moments in my heart forevermore. Throughout my childhood, my nana was like a second mom to me. She was one of the most dependable people we knew. Anytime my parents had things to do, she was my caretaker. We would go to the park, have a picnic, or even stay at her house and do fun little activities. She would also come to my rescue when it was needed. For example, when I threw up at school, had to leave early, and could not get picked up by my parents, she saved the day. She took me home with her and kept me company until my parents got out of work. I could not be more thankful for everything she has done. Even the smallest actions will always be the most meaningful. Seeing her with dementia has encouraged me to keep educating myself. Here and there, I watch videos on a YouTube channel called Dementia Careblazers. In those videos, a neuropsychologist named Natali Edmonds talks about important aspects to know about dementia. I gained so much insight and can better understand what is going on in my nana's world. When I would hear dementia, I would think of memory loss. Nonetheless, dementia is more than just memory fading away. There are numerous changes I have observed that are indicative of dementia. It is a terminal disease that majorly changes the person and is a curse in a way. Once again, thank you for allowing me to write about my nana and what we have faced. To anyone who has a loved one with dementia, please know that you are not alone. Your feelings are valid and you are stronger than you think. I hope my story touches those reading it from behind the screen and reminds you that God will provide endless comfort for you and your loved ones.

One of the intentional choices I make to live sustainably is turning off all the lights whenever I am not home. Even if I am home, there are only a few lights that I will turn on. To me, it makes more sense to keep lights off in rooms you are not in. This helps to conserve energy and electricity. Thus, that helps protect the environment from excess resource use and carbon dioxide emissions. Limiting light and electrical use truly does so much more than you may think. While they are both important necessities, they should be used as sparingly as possible. Furthermore, I had taken a global perspectives class during my freshman year of high school. Sustainable living standards were heavily involved in the course. I vividly remember my teacher showed us a video of a humanitarian named Rob Greenfield, who lived in a tiny house in Orlando at the time. The majority of his tiny house was made out of recycled materials. He had an outside kitchen, sink, and machine that he called a stomach, which was responsible for converting waste to reusable energy for his stove. He even had outdoor toilets, which seemed peculiar to me at first, but it made sense in the end. In addition, he does not drive a car. He simply rides a bicycle to commute from place to place. I found all his habits remarkable, which inspired me to learn more. I admire how devoted he is. My grandma Maria is hugely passionate about sustainable living. When I told her about the video, she proceeded to inform me that she met Rob Greenfield at some events. Meanwhile, we both found out that he was hosting an event in Orlando. Hearing that made me feel excited and eager. I was very quick to agree on going. It was such an honor to meet Rob Greenfield in person. He taught me so much about why sustainable living is important. If you think about it, global warming is still a major concern. The main reason why I find it vital to reduce my carbon footprint is to prevent global warming. As we speak, so many harmful gases are being emitted every day, which is slowly making the world warmer. The goal is to inch ourselves away from the worst-case scenario instead of towards the worst-case scenario. Preventing global warming may not be easy, but it is not impossible. Every action and habit we change can make a huge impact. We are capable of guaranteeing a healthier planet. The change starts with us.

Greetings! My name is Jordan. I am a first-generation college student living in a single-parent household. Currently, I am pursuing a major in psychology and a minor in anthropology at Stetson University. To start, being a first-generation college student is what makes me non-traditional. My goal is to graduate from Stetson within the next year. When that happens, I will be the youngest individual in the family to obtain a bachelor's degree. In 2022, I earned my high school diploma and Associate of Arts degree simultaneously. In a way, I have made some family history because of it. I am the first member to have dual-enrolled and the youngest to have an AA. That is another thing that I find unique about myself, especially since I was one of the eight or nine people in my graduating class that finished high school with a two-year degree. It is something that takes exceptional skills and is not for everyone. I participated in a dual-enrollment program, in which I took both college and high school courses. I started dual enrollment during my sophomore year of high school and ended up graduating with an AA. Needless to say, it took tons of effort and dedication for me to reach that goal. Even while I was in middle school, I sat on the thought for a while. As soon as I started high school, I dreamt of that happening. During sophomore year, I was set on the decision and goal. I had to fight tooth and nail for what I wanted, even if that meant dedicating time on weekends to complete homework. The summers involved knocking out classes. I had a huge drive to do it and I did it. Every action came from my heart and made that dream a reality. The main thing that drives me to do more is the fact that I earned two diplomas at the same time, because of dual enrollment. Whenever I find myself stressed and having a difficult time, I look back on my adventure with dual enrollment. From the hard work, occasional stress and tears, I am reminded that I conquered an extraordinary goal, which tells me that I am capable of building a bright future. It encourages me to keep going. Not everything came easy for me, but staying optimistic and keeping my head held high helped me reach my goal. Therefore, conveying a positive attitude and mindset will only be beneficial from this point forward. After graduating in 2024, I hope to attend graduate school and earn my master's degree. From there, I want to become a Cognitive Behavioral Therapist for children and adolescents and potentially open up my practice. Although I still have a long way to go, it will not be impossible. Goals like these seem impossible until they are done. Nonetheless, you can do virtually anything that you put your mind to. The key is to follow your dreams.

I want to be a Cognitive Behavioral Therapist for children and adolescents. I also want to potentially open up my practice and name it Caring Minds. I truly have enjoyment when engaging with kids and teenagers. Not only that, but I am genuinely passionate about advocating for those that face domestic violence or trauma of virtually any kind. I am sure that I will encounter clients who either went through domestic violence or simply want to know more about it. Therefore, I plan to raise awareness by explaining why domestic violence is, examples of what it looks like, and how damaging it truly is for an individual. If I come across anyone who did indeed encounter domestic violence, I will be sure to listen with open ears, offer support, and refer them to essential resources for trauma. From there, the clients I see may tell people what they have learned and feel encouraged to continue looking out for one another. Although I never endured domestic violence myself, I have faced obstacles with my mental health in the past, especially at the time I was bullied during 7th grade. That led to me going to therapy to acquire healthier coping skills for episodes of anxiety, sadness, and other unpleasant emotions. Because of my experience, I have become a more empathetic person. My dream career will enable me to put myself in other people's shoes and relate in some ways. Many people out there feel alone for what they face. I want to remind people that regardless of the circumstances, they are never alone whatsoever. Domestic violence is being talked about a little more nowadays, which is a small step, but in the right direction. Nonetheless, there is still room for improvement and awareness. If you or a loved one experiences domestic violence of any form, please take action. There is a national hotline, consisting of a phone number, SMS number, and online chat. Those services are open 24/7 and want to pull someone out of an unsafe situation. Even reaching out to just one person can make a tremendous difference. Nobody should have to face domestic violence. It is illegal, dangerous, and mentally, emotionally, and physically painful. My heart goes out to those that have faced domestic violence. I hope to see a world of more awareness and less violence. We are capable of making that change. It may be hard, but it is never impossible.

Greetings! My name is Jordan Cruz. I am a first-generation college student studying Psychology and Anthropology at Stetson University. I am also an unashamed non-denominational Christian and God-follower. Let's make this clear. Getting to where I currently am was not always an easy task. When I was just three years old, I got diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Although I have no remembrance, it was difficult for my parents to hear and process it. From there, I was involved in speech and occupational therapy, which helped me make tremendous progress. I was also in Exceptional Student Education groups for a couple of hours daily, during the school year. The rest of the time was spent in the mainstream classroom. Around 3rd and 4th grade, I started to notice a difference in myself, even though I have always been on the higher-functioning end of the spectrum. I became increasingly conscious of my oversensitivity and need for quote-unquote "extra help" in areas where most children required very little. When my mom educated me on Autism and explained that it is a part of me, I felt as though I solved my mystery. I finally understood why I was more sensitive and needed more help on certain things than other kids. Although Autism is classified as a disability, I do not see myself as a disabled person. Instead, I see myself as someone who has a unique difference from everyone else. I am just about as neurotypical as I could be. Just what is neurotypical anyways? Nobody is perfect. Reminding myself that everyone has flaws and continuing to trust in the Lord has helped me overcome so much. I did not want to let Autism become a bad word. I did not want to feel weird, different, or excluded just because it is part of me. Sometimes, I forget that I even have Autism. I have gained so much independence and come out of my comfort zone. I used to be super shy, hide behind my mom, and cover my ears whenever it got too loud in a room. However, I now see myself as someone who is courageous, ambitious, and strong-willed. My goal is to graduate from Stetson and earn my bachelor's degree by next year. After that, I plan to go straight into graduate school for my master's degree. Ultimately, I want to become a Cognitive Behavioral Therapist for children and adolescents, and potentially open up my own office. What I hope to learn during the rest of my years of college is how I advocate for others. I have faced tough obstacles with my mental health in the past, so I hope to achieve finding more ways to relate to others. I am all about helping people feel not alone. I still to this day attend counseling sessions. Nonetheless, it has only been beneficial for my well-being. The knowledge I have gained throughout my whole experience will enable me to put myself in someone else's shoes and say that I have been there too. I do not see Autism or past mental health hardships as a curse. I see them as "things" that have molded me into the individual I am today. Everyone has their "things." There is no such thing as normality in the state of humanity. To anyone out there with a disability or a mental illness, I want to remind you that you are not alone. You are unique, you are worthy, you are strong, you are capable, you are beautiful, you are extraordinary, and you are loved!

Greetings! My name is Jordan Cruz. I am a first-generation college student living in a single-parent household and attending Stetson University. Currently, I am majoring in psychology and pursuing a minor in anthropology. I am an unashamed, non-denominational Christian and God-follower. If I were to win this scholarship, it will help me continue to advance in my education and inch me toward my future career. Right now, my goal is to graduate from Stetson next year and earn my bachelor's degree. After that, I want to go straight into graduate school for my master's degree. Finally, my ultimate goal is to become a Cognitive Behavioral Therapist for children and adolescents and potentially open up my very own counseling center. If that happens, I would want to name it Caring Minds and make the place for those within the three-to-eighteen age range. I not only enjoy working with kids and teenagers, but I am genuinely passionate about being an advocate, especially for those facing rough situations. I can trace back the time I experienced emotional weakness to when I was nine years old. At the time, I learned toward the end of the school year that I needed to repeat third grade. The main reason was that I did not pass the standardized tests that were required to move on to fourth grade. It was hard to process the fact that most of my peers at the time were moving up without me. It made me feel sad and devastated in a way. It was hard for me to immediately envision the future. Nonetheless, I made sure to maintain an optimistic attitude and trust in God, knowing he had an essential plan in store for me. My mother selflessly took the year off of work, so she could stay home and sit down with me for homework assignments, reading and projects. Before then, she had thought of possibly looking into a new job. Finding out I needed to get held back was a turning point for us, which led her to make the stay-at-home decision. Although that meant becoming a stay-at-home mom, the sacrifice she made was well worth it and will never be taken for granted. In addition, I attended after-school tutoring sessions that took place twice a week for one hour. Throughout the entire school year, I was in Exceptional Student Education (ESE) groups for extra help with my reading skills. That would go on for about two hours daily, while the rest of the day was spent in the typical, mainstream classroom. As the end of the school year approached, my teacher shared the news that I passed the standardized tests and was eligible for fourth grade. Needless to say, we were overjoyed beyond measure. After lots of hard work, occasional tears, as well as having wonderful teachers and tutors, I met my goal. I could feel the Lord emitting a beam of light that greeted us at the end of the tunnel. Let's make this clear. Not everything came easy. There were moments when frustration and tears took over. However, my mom and I made sure to revert to more positive, productive thinking and maintain a strong, loving relationship. We have laughed together, cried together, and struggled together to get me to where I currently am. Through what we faced, we have become much stronger individuals. In my career, I hope to encourage people to feel not alone and to remember that God has a divine plan. After a rainy storm, there will always be a rainbow.

To me, leadership means the action of leading a group of people or an organization. Leadership is a subjective connotation, meaning that everyone is entitled to have their definition. Currently, I am taking Leading Diversity in the Workplace, which is a junior seminar class. For some time, we studied the concept of leadership. Our professor asked us what leadership meant to us and almost every person in the class voiced similar opinions. I remember saying that leadership is about influencing, inspiring, and helping others build skills to inch them toward their goals. This is an aspect that explains why leadership is important because sometimes achieving certain ambitions can take a group effort. Becoming a leader takes many exceptional skills, which is why your group will count on you. Being equipped to play a huge role in leading people in the right direction can make you dependable as a candidate. The truth is, nobody can make every accomplishment alone. As a leader, you are there to encourage and motivate people to be successful. The more equipped you are in your skills, the more people may perceive you as a dependable candidate. In some circumstances, leadership can give you the chance to be the boss in a way. That is why we have teachers, pastors, ministers, supervisors, mentors, you name it. For example, throughout the years of our education, we always have teachers for guidance. It is sad to say that education is often an underutilized power. If you think about it, a classroom full of students without a teacher will not follow rules. Therefore, the chances of success are very slim. Teaching in school does involve leadership because their job is to guarantee the best future possible for every student, as they get older. Unfortunately, leadership is something that is taken for granted at times. If it were not for the leaders that we have, the world would not be where it is today. Leadership is a sacrifice that takes selflessness. If I were given the choice between being wealthy or ensuring protection and prosperity for a group of people, I would choose their wealth and safety over my wealth and safety. I am all about putting others before myself and wanting the best for everyone I know. We are capable of expanding numerous wonderful opportunities for future generations. The change starts with us and it is only up to us.

Although I have not had direct experience with gun violence, there is so much I have learned that I could teach others. On Valentines Day in 8th grade, I learned about the Parkland High School shooting. I could not help but feel the heartache for everyone involved. Many students and teachers lost their lives. I felt a little bit of anguish at the situation, simply because their lives were taken too soon. It should have been easy for everyone to go to and from school alive. School is supposed to be our safety net, even if we do not enjoy going almost daily. Ever since then, threats made by students have become increasingly evident, especially those in middle and high school. I cannot even count how many times I had students at my high school get expelled for making a threat to blow up the school. Just words alone do not take much until it is game over. Almost every day in high school, I would think, "What if we went through an actual shooting?" I would gather the preparedness to stay safe. Every time we were told that we were going into a lockdown, I would get nervous, even if we were told it was just a drill. The truth is, anything can happen in the blink of an eye. We never know, which is why I want to educate others about the seriousness of gun violence. We must take extra precautions and be mindful. While guns can have benefits, it is important to keep in mind that they are not a toy. At an early age, I was taught what to do if I were to come across an active shooter. The knowledge I gained will never go away. I want to specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for children and adolescents. I hope educating future clients will give them as much awareness as possible. I hope to teach people how to keep themselves safe and how much their lives matter. I want to ensure safety and well-being. Nobody should ever need to feel afraid to go to school. It is a place to help you become what you want to become in the future. It should not be a place of violence, intimidation and fear. Thank you to bold for giving me the chance to share such a passionate subject. I hope whoever is reading my essay from behind the screen can learn an important tool.

Greetings! My name is Jordan Cruz. I am a first-generation college student living in a single-parent household. I am currently pursuing a major in Psychology and a minor in Anthropology at Stetson University. Despite having a life full of love, happiness, laughter, success, and many more wonderful aspects, it is easy to say that I have faced obstacles with my mental health. In 5th grade, I developed almightly high anxiety. Almost every day, I felt what I call a ticking bomb in my mind counting down the number of seconds until it was time for the darkness to explode, without others knowing. In other words, when I was out and about, I would do my best to conceal the high waves of apprehension and wear a smile, as if it were makeup. When I was home and felt safe, I had meltdowns consisting of hours of tears, guilt, and even intermittent anguish. Oftentimes, I could not entirely demystify where the anxiousness was stemming from. Eventually, physical effects such as lethargy, fatigue, nausea, decreased hunger, weight loss, and delayed growth emerged as a result. My parents noticed and were worried because it became abundantly clear to them that I was having a difficult time. During 6th grade, my anxiety seemed to have improved. That gave me hope that I would become a happy-go-lucky individual again. Or, so I thought. I became a target for bullying during the majority of my 7th-grade year. Without going into detail, two girls that I knew put me through a terrible situation at the end of the school year, which resulted in them receiving a suspension. This time, I was possibly going through a depressive episode. I cried almost daily and felt worthless. I saw myself as a burden on my teachers, friends, and even my own family. This had taken a large toll on my mental health and was getting the best of me. I knew I could not continue to bottle up my feelings. Although it may have taken time and courage, I opened up to my parents about what I was going through. They were caring, understanding, nurturing, and supportive. We came to a mutual consensus that therapy would be right for me. That is when I started attending monthly counseling sessions. Since then, my mental health has improved tremendously. I still have my downfalls, as with everyone else, but I get right back up in the end. Therapy helped me build optimism, stamina, resilience, endurance, and independence. My journey has led to my career aspiration. I want to become a Cognitive Behavioral Therapist for children and adolescents and potentially an adjunct professor for psychology courses. I feel inspired to have a turn to educate and advocate for those in need. I have been taught that mental health is a subject that needs to be destigmatized. Looking back, it was not talked about as much as it is now, especially youth mental health. The biggest thing I learned is mental health does not care about how blissful your life is. The truth is, it can be equated to catching a cold, which is inevitable. Through my experiences, I have developed the ability to put myself in someone else's shoes, relate and have empathy. Unequivocally, there is still a gap between mental and physical health. We still have a long way toward destigmatization, but it is not impossible. As a society, we must take care of ourselves, look after each other, and never feel ashamed, especially when seeking intervention. Thus, we can break the stigma and fill the gap.

Greetings! My name is Jordan Cruz. I am a first-generation college student studying psychology and anthropology at Stetson University. Last year, I graduated high school with my Associate of Arts degree. Now, I am working on my Bachelor of Science degree. After graduation from Stetson next year, the goal is the venture straight into graduate school and pursue my Master's degree. As a career, I want to become a Cognitive Behavioral Therapist for children and adolescents. Being a first-generation college student has influenced my career goals by teaching me that no matter what, you can create history. I am the first individual in the family to be pursuing a four-year degree. I am also the youngest person in the family with a degree. That inspires me to keep going and work for the future I want. As a future advocate, I want to teach clients that regardless of whether or not they are first-generation college students, they can conquer virtually anything that they set their minds to. On a more personal basis, I have faced some obstacles with my mental health in the past. That led to attending monthly counseling therapy sessions for moments of anxiousness and frustration. I am happy to say that my mental health has improved tremendously. It will be an honor to have a turn to advocate for those that need to be heard and cared for. I hope to teach what I have learned through my experiences and encourage others to always keep their heads held high.

Greetings! My name is Jordan Cruz. I am a first-generation college student studying psychology and anthropology at Stetson University. First of all, I want to say thank you for giving me the chance to talk about an obstacle that I faced and overcame. Every one of us has faced challenges. Some are obvious, while others are more discreet. What I encountered is a perfect example of a hardship that cannot be seen on the outside. When I was nine, my parents and I found out at the end of the school year that I needed to repeat third grade. That was because I did not pass the standardized tests that were required to get promoted to fourth grade. Hearing that news was one of the hardest pills to swallow. Knowing that most people I knew were moving up without me was difficult to process. Nonetheless, I made sure to be optimistic and have a positive attitude. During the second year of third grade, I attended after-school tutoring sessions twice a week for an hour. Tutoring involved fun activities that helped me increase my skills in reading and mathematics. Outside of tutoring hours, I had two-hour sessions with ESE teachers every day, which was also hugely helpful. I am blessed to have had wonderful teachers and tutors that guided me along the way. Before then, my mom expressed an interest in getting a new job. However, that changed when we learned I was getting held back, but it was for a great cause. She selflessly dedicated virtually all of her time to sit down with me during reading projects, homework assignments, and even to study for a test. Although that meant becoming a stay-at-home mom, the sacrifice was well worth it, and will never be taken for granted. I kept in mind that she will always be by my side and never let me go. We have laughed together, cried together, and struggled together. There were moments when frustration ran high and overcame us. In the end, we made sure to turn it all around and revert to more positive, productive thinking. We loved each other through everything. Meanwhile, my teacher gave us the news that I had passed the standardized tests and was moving on to fourth grade. The pride and joy we felt were unexplainable, knowing that our hard work paid off. My mom announced the news on Facebook and said, "Feeling like a proud, accomplished, I'm doing something, right mommy." She deserved to feel proud because it is true that she did indeed do something right for me. We saw a beam of light greeting us at the end of the tunnel. Looking back, I can see that God had a plan that was far greater than our own. He knew what was right for me, which has brought me to where I am today. I firmly believe that God has a reason for everything that happens. Even though it was hard for me to understand at the time, it is easy to say that I have learned so much. Getting held back was a gift for my education and has allowed me to reach countless milestones. Thank you to God, my parents, teachers, and tutors. Without you all, I would not be the individual I am today.

Greetings! My name is Jordan Cruz. I am a first-generation college student studying psychology and anthropology at Stetson University. As a career, I want to become a Cognitive Behavioral Therapist for children and adolescents. Being an individual that has faced obstacles with their mental health in the past, and has been a client going to therapy, I feel inspired to have a turn to advocate to those in a similar position. I see this career being life-changing, because it will allow me to be my own boss, while also guaranteeing a better life for future clients. My experiences helped me become a more empathetic individual toward others. With having a career in CBT, I will be able to put myself in other people's shoes and show that I can relate to them, especially after sharing my experiences. Empathy is a skill I will need to express on an almost daily basis. Nonetheless, it is something I am willing to do. I am incredibly passionate about hearing others out with open ears and using what I have learned through what I faced as advice. I want to help people feel not alone and unashamed. This job may help people accept themselves, regardless of their mental illnesses. It may encourage people to keep feeling the sense of belongingness. Thus, I can see myself feeling accomplished, knowing that I have helped another individual overcome their mental hardships. Ultimately, I hope to see mental health becoming destigmatized. Unfortunately, it is a subject that needs more focus, awareness, and respect. Looking back, mental health was not talked about as much as it is now, especially youth mental health. Although I was at a young age when my mental health was affected, it is easy to say that the stigma was larger at the time. Even now, there is still a gap between mental and physical health. I could not entirely demystify what was going on in my world, until years later. In the end, I could finally understand myself and what I was going through. On a happy note, my mental health has improved tremendously, because of therapy. Mental health is a matter that we must take seriously. Our brain is an organ that we must take care of every day. I hope to pass down the learning experiences to future generations and keep educating others. Thus, we can break the stigma and fill the gap.

Greetings! My name is Jordan Cruz. I am a first-generation college student, living in a single-parent household, and studying psychology and anthropology at Stetson University. For almost four years, I have had my heart set on being a psychology major. Even to this day, that is something I do not plan to change. I am pursuing a minor in anthropology because that is a field I am also interested in. As a career, I want to become a Cognitive Behavioral Therapist for children and adolescents. I, myself, have faced obstacles with my mental health in the past, which led me to attend monthly counseling therapy sessions. I am happy to say that my mental health has improved tremendously. Looking back, mental health was not being talked about as much as it is now. However, there is still room for improvement. Therapy and mental health are often underutilized, which has created what is known as a stigma. From there, the stigma has formed a gap between mental and physical health. I feel inspired to have a turn to advocate for those in similar boats. I hope to educate others about the importance of mental health and why we should always take care of our minds. In addition, many people in the world with mental illness feel ashamed and alone. I want to help people feel less alone, by sharing the experiences that I had. Through what I faced, I have gained so much empathy toward others. It enables me to take a moment to step into someone else shoes, relate to them, and understand what is going on in their world. This may help people suffering to not feel ashamed. The truth is, having a mental illness is equivalent to catching a cold. It does not care how blissful your life is. Therefore, it is far out of your control and never your fault. Sometimes words like this need to be heard, so sharing this takeaway that I have received will hopefully remind future clients that they are more than their mental illness. Every one of us has battles to fight in our lives. Some are obvious, others not so much. Mental health is a concept that deserves more focus and needs to be destigmatized. As a society, we need to do better. Spreading awareness and sharing the lessons I have learned can make a difference. Thus, we can break the stigma and fill the gap.

Greetings! My name is Jordan Cruz. I am a first-generation college student studying psychology and anthropology at Stetson University. As a career, I want to become a Cognitive Behavioral Therapist for children and adolescents. Being an individual that has faced obstacles with their mental health in the past and has been a client going to counseling therapy, I feel inspired to have a turn in advocating for those in similar shoes. During fifth and seventh grade, I had on-and-off mental challenges, which led to the desire of seeking intervention. Since then, I have been attending monthly counseling sessions, which has helped my mental health improve tremendously. Looking back, mental health was not talked about as much as it is now, especially youth mental health. However, there is still room for improvement in the society that we currently live in. I believe this career will bring me fulfillment because expressing the importance of mental health to future clients will help people see why it is vital to keep us going. From there, mental health could get closer to being destigmatized. In addition, helping others feel unashamed and not alone will also remind me that I am doing something right as an advocate. I hope to manifest those main goals. Aside from cognitive behavioral therapy, I have also had the thought of potentially becoming an adjunct professor in the psychology department. The reason why I would want to become an adjunct professor is that I would not have to teach full-time, and I can still focus on CBT. Psychopathology, which is the study of mental illnesses and treatments is an example of a class I would consider teaching. It will help people become more aware of mental illnesses and how they were treated in the past versus how they are handled in the present day. Getting paid to educate a class about mental illnesses will be rewarding. In 2022, I graduated high school and earned my Associate of Arts degree simultaneously through dual enrollment. Now, I am studying at Stetson and hoping to graduate in 2024. However, my journey will not end there. My plan after graduation is to go to graduate school, earn my master's degree, and ultimately get licensed. Although I still have a long way to go, I know that hard work will pay off in the end, as long as I keep going. To those reading from behind the screen, please know that you are capable of reaching virtually any goals you put your mind to.

Although I am not a bookworm, if I had to think of one book to have everyone in the world read, it would be the Bible. To me, the Bible is hands down the most important book to read, because it has scripture that is intended to change you and bring you closer to God. When I was a little girl, my thought of the Bible is that it is just a book. As I got older, I realized that the Bible is truly more than just a story. The names of the books that you see in the Bible and the verses are people that were directed to write the entire Bible by God. It may sound basic, but God told those specific people exactly what to write and turn it into scripture. I want to remind people that you can hear from God, and the Bible has a surefire way to do that job. From the stories, verses, and commandments, there is so much that you can learn. That is what can encourage you to have a strong tie with the Lord. He loves you with all his heart and wants you to build a relationship with him. There are so many powerful Bible verses for fear, stress, anxiety, guilt, sadness, and so much more. When I feel that the devil is trying to drill into my head, I turn to the Bible and pray. Unequivocally, there are plenty of verses that have spoken to me and led to repentance. Whenever I am reading and encounter a verse that I find important, I repeat it to myself until it changes me. Furthermore, I feel God reminding me that he will help you fight any battles and all you need to do is be still. Notice how I went from first to third person. This is because I want you to remember the goodness of God and that he is always with you. God has called you to pick up your cross and deny your flesh. He has called his one and begotten son Jesus to die on the cross for our sins, so we shall not perish. Your sins are washed away by his precious blood. The Lord is returning sooner than you think and tomorrow is not promised. Keeping living for him as if it were your last day. You are strong, worthy, beautiful, and loved.

Greetings! My name is Jordan Cruz. I am a first-generation college student, living in a single-parent household, and studying psychology and anthropology at Stetson University. It is safe to say that I have faced obstacles with my mental health in the past. Despite having a blissful life consisting of awesome parents, a great family, and a wonderful circle of friends, I still had tough times. Although the list of blessings could go on, that did not mean that I was not having difficulties. During 5th grade, I experienced intense, almightly anxiety nearly every day. Oftentimes, I could not entirely demystify where the anxiety was stemming from. At the time, I only knew very little about anxiety. Almost all the time, I would go everywhere wearing a smile on my face, as if it were a sticker. On the outside, I was happy-go-lucky. Deep down inside, on the other hand, I was fighting an internal battle. Then, the meltdown would come, as soon as I was home and felt safe. Eventually, physical effects such as fatigue, lethargy, nausea, and weight loss occurred as a result. My parents were worried because it became abundantly clear to them that I was struggling. Fast forward to my 7th-grade year. I was being bullied, which made me feel vulnerable, inferior, and mentally hurt. Before that year, my anxiety improved, which gave me hope that my mental health would be back to where it was, or so I thought. This time, I went through a possible case of depression. I cried all the time, either in the school bathrooms, when I got home or while I was about to fall asleep at night. I felt like a burden on my friends, teachers, and even my own family. I spent so much time trying to conceal my emotions, but I can tell bottling everything up was getting the best of me. Although it may have taken time and courage, I opened up to my parents about what I was going through. I expressed my interest in going to counseling therapy. They were caring, nurturing, understanding and supportive. We easily came to a mutual consensus that therapy would be right for me. From there, I started attending monthly counseling sessions. Since then, I am proud to say that my mental health has improved tremendously. I am happier than I was during those times. I still have moments of falling, but the next thing you know, I get right back up. I have gained so much confidence, resilience, and independence. Therapy and my experiences have molded me into the individual I am today. The biggest thing that I have taken away is that mental health is a concept that needs to be destigmatized. During those times, it was not talked about as much as it is now. However, there is still room for improvement. In our society, there is a major gap between mental and physical health. I have discovered that some people unfortunately underestimate mental health. Looking back, some people would question why I would get so upset, even with the joyful life I have. They would get jealous and say I should be appreciative instead of sad. Nonetheless, mental health does not care how wonderful your life is. Nobody is immune. What I hope to see in our society is more awareness and care. Here are three important musts. We must do better. We must check on ourselves. We must look out for others. If we normalize seeking intervention, getting treatment, and showing some respect, we can break the stigma and fill the gap.

From your mental and physical health, managing your wellness is vital while attending college. In the past, I have faced some obstacles with my mental health. The anxiety I experienced almost daily gave me the desire to go to therapy and find ways to help cope with the stress that it brought. Since seventh grade, I have been attending monthly counseling therapy sessions. Even to this day, I am still seeing the same therapist, who is knowledgeable and has great expertise. It was one of the best decisions that I have ever made. Therapy helped me acquire the coping skills that I am about to list. One thing I do to cope with the stress and anxiety I occasionally experience is lay outside on the hammock and listen to music. Studies have shown that getting at least ten to fifteen minutes of sunlight every day can be beneficial for your health. It ensures you are getting adequate Vitamin D and simply seeing the sunlight is known to enhance your mood. I enjoy going outside for an hour or more, but I make sure to protect myself from sunburns and other unpleasant effects. It allows me to put any burdens aside, savor nature around me, and relax in a calming environment. Maintaining a nourishing diet also helps me to stay a happy and healthy individual. The truth is, you are what you eat. Obtaining the proper nutrients is what keeps me focused, motivated, energized, and confident in what I do each day. The bottom line is, your body, including your mind, will not function properly, without a nutritious regimen. I eat tons of fruits and vegetables, which helps me keep a good attention span, memory, and overall health. If you think about it, mental and physical health have a strong correlation. Finally, I am an unashamed non-denominational Christian and a firm believer in the Lord. When a tough battle attempts to knock me down, I turn to the Lord and pray. On the daily, I read at least one chapter in the Bible, and pray throughout the day and at bedtime. Reminding myself that the Lord will always have my back gives me peace. It is about knowing that he will fight every battle and all you have to do is be still, as said in Exodus 14:14. The Lord has a reason for everything that happens, whether we see it or not. I will continue to trust in God and live faithfully for him. Although there are more coping skills that I could list, the three above are the top ways that help me manage my wellness. I would not trade them for anything else.

Greetings! My name is Jordan Cruz. I am a first-generation college student studying psychology and anthropology at Stetson University. I am also a Non-denominational Christian and part of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes club at my college, even though I am not an athlete. I want to become a Cognitive Behavioral Therapist for children and adolescents in the future. With that career, I hope to guide people through the stages of grief and difficult times in general, by spreading God's word, power and wisdom. In March of 2021, my mom and I lost a loved one. His name was Tony, a beloved father to two precious twin boys and a wonderful friend of my mom's. From meeting him for the very first time to watching him and my mom get closer, to seeing a beautiful relationship blossom, there are so many memories I will forever cherish. He was one of the funniest people I knew that had a corny joke or some way to make me laugh in a heartbeat. Unfortunately, one of my most vivid memories was finding out that he was gone. The moment my mom uttered these words, "Tony died," I immediately broke down in shock and devastation. I had never been in so much denial in my life, considering how sudden and unexpected the death was. Without going into grave detail, the cause of his death was easily preventable and beyond everyone's comprehension. It was mind-boggling to think one minute he and my mom had a great conversation on the phone and then about several days later, he was gone. It all transpired in the blink of an eye. My heart was heavy for my mom, his boys, his family, and everyone who knew him. He did not deserve to die. I had trouble fathoming why it had to happen. However, as a Christian, I made sure to trust in God, keep living faithfully, and stay strong. I chose to walk myself through the grieving process at a snail's pace. Taking it slow allowed me to understand what God was teaching me during that tough time. One of the things I learned about grief is that healing does not have to mean finding full closure. It can mean reaching the stage of acceptance and still feeling sadness, denial, anger or bargaining simultaneously. Although it took time, my mom and I found our closure. God reminded me that Tony is in a better place. The plans the Lord has for us are greater than our own. I want to teach people in my future career that it is okay to grieve. It is part of processing the death of a loved one while knowing that there is nothing you can do to bring them back. That is something I had to remind myself of because I knew there was nothing we could have controlled. I have gone to counseling for rough patches I have personally faced with my mental health, especially after losing Tony. Having a turn to advocate for those in need will be an honor. Reminding people that good things will come when they trust in the Lord will guarantee a more hopeful world. To those out there going through any hardship, please know that God has a divine plan. He will help you through any battle and all you need to do is be still. Thank you Jessica Joas for selflessly providing this scholarship opportunity and for allowing me to share my story. I hope that it touches whoever is reading it from behind the screen and helps you to know your worth.

Although I never witnessed cancer in my family, I know some people who battled cancer, which include loved ones of my friends and some of my parent's friends. As a Non-Denominational Christian, my indirect experience with cancer led me to firmly believe that all things are possible through the power of prayer. After finding out that my friend's uncle was diagnosed with cancer, I started praying every day. I would message my friend and ask how she was doing and how his health was. Regardless of how his prognosis, I made sure to not stop praying. I put my faith and trust in the Lord, by reminding myself that he will be healed. Then one day, she reached out informing me that her uncle got a panel of tests done and was confirmed cancer free. The moment I learned that there was no evidence of cancer, I felt such surreal joy that made me jump out of my seat and praise the Lord. I felt the Lord praising me back by thanking me for maintaining my faith. This gave me the feeling that I was doing something right. Staying optimistic and keeping a hopeful attitude allowed this miracle to happen. Later that same year, I found out from one of my other friends that her mother was diagnosed with colon cancer. Hearing the news broke my heart, especially since I have known her and her mom for years now. Nonetheless, I made sure to remind myself again that faith and prayer are the way to a miracle. I pray during the day and every night before I fall asleep. I make a list of people to pray for and she was included. After a year of treatment, tests and prayers, I got a message from my friend telling me that no cancer was detected. Reading those words made me choked up and teary-eyed. Sunbeams were shooting from my eyes and tears were flowing. I felt as though I was reliving those same feelings I had after getting the same result about my friend's uncle. I could see the light that God provided at the end of the tunnel. I want to become a Cognitive Behavioral Therapist for children and adolescents. With that, I want to spread God's word and remind everyone to always stay faithful. God is always good, even when his children suffer. I hope to teach others that when you trust in the Lord with all your heart and soul, good things are bound to come your way. God has a divine plan and will help you overcome anything that you encounter. He will help you through the battles you face and all you have to do is be still. He is the way, the truth, and the life.

As an individual that has faced obstacles with their mental health, I could almost write a whole novel on this concept. My journey started in 5th grade, which was at the time mental health was not being looked at as much as it is now, especially youth mental health. Almost every day, I experienced high waves of anxiety. Oftentimes, I could not entirely demystify where the anxiety was stemming from. Anxiety was something I wore as a security blanket. Eventually, physical effects, such as nausea, fatigue, lethargy, and weight loss occurred as a result. My parents were worried because it became abundantly clear to them that I was struggling. Middle school came and my anxiety seemed to have improved. That gave me hope that my mental health would be back to where it was before, or so I thought. When 7th grade came, I was a target for bullying, which made me feel vulnerable and inferior. I cried almost every day, whether that would be in the bathroom at school or when I was home alone and felt safe. This time, I had possible depression. There was so much I was bottling up for so long, and I knew it would only do more harm than good. Therefore, I decided to open up to my parents about what I was going through. Although it took some time and courage, I was relieved to have poured out what I had stored in my bottle. They were caring, understanding, and supportive, and agreed to get me into therapy. From there, I started attending monthly counseling therapy sessions. Because of counseling, my anxiety has improved tremendously. The intervention and learning experiences have helped me grow as an individual, by helping me become more optimistic, confident and independent. Although I still have moments of sadness and anxiety, I have acquired effective coping skills. When a rough day turns into anxiety and tears, I manage my emotions by taking a hot bath. I also make sure to go outside for at least fifteen minutes each day, to ensure I am getting the vitamin D I need because it is essential for my physical and mental health. Even reaching out to friends and family or talking to my parents helps me feel better. I am thankful for the support system I have, knowing that I have accessible guidance. In addition, I am a Christian, so listening to worship music, reading the Bible, and praying also help me. It is a reminder that God will always have my back and fight any battles I am facing. That lets me know that all I need to do is be still. My advice to those with a mental illness is to never be ashamed. Reach out to someone about how you feel, because even one supportive person can make a difference. It is okay to not be okay. It is okay to take a break and it is okay to seek help. God has a plan for you and will help you with every need. I want to become a Cognitive Behavioral Therapist for children and adolescents. It would be an honor to have a turn in advocating for those in need, especially when sharing the experience I had with my mental health. I hope to help others feel not alone and understand the importance of mental health. It is a subject that needs to be destigmatized. Many people do not take it seriously, which undermines its value. I hope to teach future generations the things I have taken away. Thus, we as a society can break the stigma.

Greetings! Welcome one, welcome all. My name is Jordan Cruz. I'm a first-generation college student studying psychology and anthropology at Stetson University. Ultimately, I want to become a Cognitive Behavioral Therapist for children and adolescents. Although I have never been directly involved with drugs and/or alcohol, I value educating others about addiction. With the career I want to pursue, I can see myself teaching future clients about Substance Use Disorder by sharing the knowledge I've gained regarding the correlation between drugs, alcohol, mind and behavior. This is an aspect that needs to be evaluated and talked about more. Therefore, sharing how impactful Substance Use Disorder is for your mental and physical well-being is important to help future generations. Furthermore, I can see myself helping people recover from Substance Use Disorder by encouraging them to change the way they think. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy involves helping clients to control and modify their thoughts, to help them in life. Of course, I have learned that I will never be in control of someone's thoughts. It is only up to them to change the way they think, and in turn change the way they act. However, sharing my knowledge and the importance of staying healthy can help others to shift gears and understand how damaging this disorder is. For example, let's say I come across a client that thinks drugs and alcohol are what will free them from stress, anxiety, depression, or undesirable feelings. Talking about coping skills that I have personally acquired, including meditation, reaching out to a friend, listening to music, aromatherapy, and hot baths may encourage the client to think twice about their habits. From there, that may help them to replace the thought of drugs and alcohol with the healthier coping skills that I listed. That way, people can pick up habits that will be beneficial in the long run. If you think about it, alcohol and drugs are all fun and games until your health deteriorates and legal trouble comes along the way. It is easy to guarantee happiness in yourself without damaging your health nor getting into any kind of trouble. That is something I want to teach my future clients. When we manifest in increased recovery rates, our society can become healthier and prosper more. To those of you suffering from Substance Abuse Disorder, it is never too late to start your journey to recovery. Please know that you are capable of conquering the recovery, even when things are hard and grim. To those that have recovered, give yourself credit for such a commitment, and always take care of yourself!

Although I do not have direct experience with drug and/or alcohol addiction, it's an aspect that I'm passionate about seeing a change in, especially as a psychology major. I want to become a Cognitive Behavioral Therapist for children and adolescents. In that field, I want to encourage people to change the way they think to help them in life. My indirect experience has me firmly believing that our thoughts or ideas can become things. Whatever our mind is pondering deep down inside can lead to either a good or a bad situation, because it is solely based on the actions we commit in the end. I'm sure many of us have heard of this famous saying, "Actions speak louder than words." This is a true statement because how we behave can dictate how we are perceived as an individual. I vividly remember learning about the acronym T.H.I.N.K and why it is key before we act, at the time I was ten. Thus, I was told to ask myself these five guiding questions; Is it true? Is it helpful? Is it inspiring? Is it necessary? Is it kind? Even though it sounds rudimentary, thinking about what we want to say or do is vital, because it can define who we are as a person and set the tone for our surroundings. Getting impulsive and going out of our way to do things that are unhealthy and potentially illegal is what can get you in trouble. In the end, you will likely regret it, because that's when our reputation can get hurt. Furthermore, I am religious and a non-denominational Christian. Because I believe in God, I value associating with like-minded people who care just as much as I do. Hearing about drug and/or alcohol addiction gives me the vibe that it's a form of betraying God, which is something I would never choose. I find it important to stay healthy and out of trouble to maintain a strong, enriched relationship with God. I am very much an unashamed Christian and live for the Lord daily, simply because tomorrow is not promised. To those out there recovering from drugs and/or alcohol addiction, or an addiction of any kind, I have a message for you. Keep in mind that you are so much more than you are capable of conquering whatever addiction is holding you back. Stay strong, faithful, and optimistic, keep a smile on your face, and last but not least, never give up!

Greetings! My name is Jordan Cruz. I am a first-generation college student studying psychology and anthropology at Stetson University. Ultimately, my goal is to become a Cognitive Behavioral Therapist for children and adolescents First of all, I have learned that with servitude comes selflessness. When I hear servitude, selflessness is the word that floats in my mind. It's easy to say that I have learned from my own experiences. When I attended youth group at the local church, we set up a Thanksgiving food drive. The church bought lots of cans, ingredients for special Thanksgiving dishes, and more essentials. We organized everything into bags and gave them to people in our community that were not as fortunate. It was an honor to guarantee the best Thanksgiving holiday for those people as much as possible. Another thing that I have done was donate clothes and other items to the local Goodwill donation center. It was simply a drive-thru where you were able to put unwanted things into special bags they had, as long as they were gently used and in good condition. From there, those items would be transported to Goodwill stores for a lower price. In all honestly, I would much rather people in need have those things than myself. Living selflessly is something I value and will never let go of. I am all about putting others before myself. If I were given the choice between having wealth or keeping my friends, family, and loved ones secure, I would choose their wealth and safety over my wealth and safety. I would give my last dollar to someone who needed it. I want to see everyone living the best life that they can live. Happiness, love, and good health are the most important things to me for each individual out there. At the same time, I know there are circumstances where I must put myself before others. However, that does not inherently mean selfishness. We must take a moment to evaluate ourselves, especially when it comes to our mental and physical health. This is because our health can dictate how we perform in our daily life. For example, if I got super sick and could not go to school or important meetings, the solution would be to stay home to ensure a fast and easy recovery. Although that sounds basic, it's true. Loving selflessly, having a giving heart, and helping others are wonderful attributes to have. I will make sure to convey those characteristics forevermore.

Greetings! Welcome one, welcome all. My name is Jordan Cruz. I am a first-generation college student studying psychology and anthropology at Stetson University. I also come from a single-parent household. I firmly believe that everyone is unique in special ways. Let's face it. The world would be the most boring place if we were all the same. One of the things that makes me unique is that I am on the spectrum. I was diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (or ASD for short) when I was only three years old. Throughout the years, things were grim. Nonetheless, getting therapy and intervention early on has brought me to where I am today. I still have moments where I stumble and fall, but I make sure to turn it around and revert to a more positive and productive mindset. I am very much an independent thinker. I spend so much time brainstorming and coming up with my ideas. From there, those ideas and thoughts turn into goals. When it comes to ambitions, I see myself as a hard-working, strong-willed, goal-oriented, hard-headed, go-getter, lets-do-it, individual. Anytime I discover a goal I have a huge desire to meet, I fight tooth and nail for what I want, regardless of what people may think of me. I naturally feel an internal drive to keep going, even when things get hard. I understand that not everything I want for my future is going to be handed to me. That is why I must stay focused on what I envision and never give up. It's called having tenacity and perseverance. I plan to give back to my community by potentially becoming a Cognitive Behavioral Therapist for children and adolescents. In the past, I faced some pretty tough obstacles with my mental health. Ever since 7th grade, I have been attending monthly counseling sessions with a counseling therapist, who has helped me tremendously manage episodes of anxiety. I have realized how much mental health needs to be destigmatized, which has inspired me to have a turn in advocating for those in need. If it wasn't for my experience, I probably would not have gained the knowledge about mental health that I currently have. It has given me the ability to show empathy and take a moment to essentially put myself in other people's shoes. I want to share my experience to remind people that they are never alone and that there is always someone that can relate to them. I want to give a huge thanks to bold for generously providing this scholarship and for allowing me to share a small portion of my story. I hope it touches those reading it from behind the screen and helps you know you are worthy!

Greetings! My name is Jordan Cruz. I am a first-generation college student studying psychology and anthropology at Stetson University. I also come from a single-parent household. Although I am been blessed to have received incredible scholarships and grants, I have needed to take out a loan to cover some of the remaining expenses. One of the biggest things I plan to do to address my current student loan debt is to avoid taking out any additional loans at all costs. It took almost twenty years for my uncle to pay off every single loan he took out, while he was in college. Unfortunately, it is common for students to end up in the same boat as him. That is why I am doing my best to not rely on loans as much as possible. In addition, keeping my grades up and maintaining a high GPA are also important for me to prevent as much debt as possible. This will allow me to apply for scholarships with higher award amounts. Thus, that will help erase most to all of the debt and stop future debt before it approaches. Some people have trouble seeing the big picture with attending class, completing assignments on time, and studying hard, especially before major exams. That is what helps you to get great grades and a GPA of 3.0 or above. Although I have an on-campus part-time job, the only things I can remotely afford with each paycheck are food and gas. Therefore, it would be virtually impossible for me to pay off every single loan on my own. My goal is to stay on track for graduation in 2024, which is next year. After graduation, I am hoping to attend graduate school. Ultimately, my career ambition is to become a Cognitive Behavioral Therapist for children and adolescents. This is something I am passionate about, especially being an individual that has faced obstacles with their mental health in the past. If I were to receive this scholarship, it will guarantee that some to most of my debt can be erased. That way, I can potentially graduate from Stetson debt free, go to graduate school, and take on my career, without having to worry about the burden of paying off past loans. Knowing there are scholarships readily accessible, with the inclusion of this scholarship, gives me peace and hope for the future. I want to say a big thank you to bold for generously and selflessly guaranteeing financial success!

Greetings! My name is Jordan Cruz. I am a first-generation college student studying psychology and anthropology at Stetson University. I also come from a single-parent household. Last year, I graduated high school with my associate's degree. One of the biggest reasons why I chose to take on dual enrollment is because it was free, which I am incredibly thankful for. My high school covered all expenses including books, tuition, and other extraneous fees. Now, I am almost a senior at Stetson and will hopefully graduate next year in 2024. Although I am blessed to have gotten two consecutive years of my college career for free, and received scholarships and grants, I have needed to take out a loan to cover some of the remaining expenses. I am involved in the Fellowship of Christian Athletes Club and have an interest in potentially joining the Omicron Delta Kappa Honor Society. Because I am passionate about helping others build a strong relationship with the Lord, I am also hoping to become an officer for the Fellowship of Christian Athletes club during my senior year. After facing some challenges with my mental health in the past and years of monthly counseling therapy sessions, I feel inspired to become a Cognitive Behavioral Therapist for children and adolescents. I am hoping to start with volunteering over the summer and then getting an official internship in the fall. This will help me get a feel of what my future dream career will entail. Upon graduation, my goal is to go to graduate school for my master's degree, as it will be needed for the career I want to go into. If I were to receive this scholarship, it can guarantee that most to all of my student loans can be paid off, before graduation next year. That way, I can graduate from Stetson completely debt free and then go on to graduate school without having to worry about the burden of past loans. Even though I have a part-time job on campus, the only things I can remotely afford with each paycheck are food and gas. Therefore, it would be virtually impossible for me to pay off every single loan on my own. It took my uncle almost twenty years for him to pay off every single loan he borrowed, which was a pretty good chunk of his life. Many people end up in the same boat as him, which is why I am doing my best to avoid taking out any additional loans at all costs. This scholarship will be the first step in helping me continue to save up for further education I have to go through. It will also be the first step to erasing student debt. Let's face it. College can be incredibly expensive. Knowing that there are scholarships readily accessible, including this one, gives me peace. I want to give a huge thank you to bold for generously and selflessly guaranteeing financial success!

Hi there! My name is Jordan Cruz. I am a first-generation college student living in a single-parent household while studying psychology and anthropology at Stetson University. For almost four years now, I have had my heart set on psychology. My ultimate career goal is to become a Cognitive Behavioral Therapist for children and adolescents and here is why. At the time I was in 5th grade, I suffered deep, almighty anxiety. My description of the anxiety was a ticking bomb counting down the number of seconds until it was time for darkness to fill me up from head to toe. It became a security blanket that I constantly wore and could not remove from my body. Nearly all the time, I went everywhere wearing a smile on my face as if it were makeup. On the outside, I was a cheerful, lively and happy-go-lucky girl. However, I was fighting an internal battle deep down inside. When I was alone and felt safe, I had meltdowns involving harsh words towards myself and hours of tears. As a result, I redeveloped social anxiety, became reserved, introverted and often felt like isolating myself from those around me. The anxiety eventually led to physical effects. It got to the point where I felt sick, lethargic, and hardly ever hungry. As a result, I lost a lot of weight and wasn't growing, which had my parents worried about me. It became abundantly clear to them that I was struggling. 7th grade came and I encountered a phase of possible depression, due to bullying. It caused me to have resentment and trust issues with others, even my loved ones. During those years, I had a bottle filled with anguish, apprehension, pessimism, and melancholy. After lots of time, I gathered the courage to share my feelings with my parents. They were empathetic, understanding, and supportive, and agreed to get me professional help. The bottle of negativity was being poured out, which gave me so much peace. Unequivocally, my relationship with myself at the time was very artificial, so I knew it was time to do something different. Meanwhile, I started attending monthly sessions with an amazingly kind, knowledgeable counselor with exceptional expertise. Going to therapy helped me acquire effective coping mechanisms for moments of anxiousness or gloom. Thus, it resulted in more confidence, independence, resilience, and stamina. I am proud to say that my mental health has improved tremendously. Going to therapy was one of the most worthwhile decisions I have ever made. Although I still fall, I always find a way to get back up and revert to positive, productive thinking. Saying that there is so much I have learned through what I faced is an understatement. One of the biggest things I have taken away is mental health is a subject that needs to be destigmatized. Sadly, it doesn't receive the respect and awareness that it deserves. Having a mental illness is equivalent to having a cold. The truth is, you can't help it. None of us are immune. I want to teach those important lessons that I have learned to people in the same boat. Many people in the world feel ashamed because of their mental health struggles. I hope to help people feel not alone and know that it is always okay to not be okay. I hope that my message touches those who hear it and helps them understand their worth and capability. My message is no matter what, God has a divine plan and will provide a way to help you conquer any obstacles you face.

As a little girl, I was a picky eater. Meanwhile, I learned early on why eating healthy is vital, which encouraged me to expand my pallet and try new foods. Because of it, I will eat virtually anything that gets put in front of me. I still remind myself to eat healthy, to ensure that my body functions properly. When 5th grade came, I suffered from intense anxiety that occured almost daily. Oftentimes, I couldn't quite demystify where the anxiety was directly stemming from. Eventually, physical effects such as lethargy, fatigue, nausea, decreased hunger, weight loss, and delayed growth emerged as a result. In 6th grade, my anxiety was much better. However, my mental health took a turn for the worst in 7th grade when I was being bullied. I became angry and bitter, cried almost every day, and was hardly ever happy. At that point, my emotions I bottled up were running so high to where I knew I couldn't continue to handle it all on my own anymore. Meanwhile, I started speaking with a therapist that I still see on a monthly basis. That has helped my mental health improve so much, and I'm super thankful for it. Nonetheless, that doesn't mean that I will stop valuing healthy habits. Although I'm a commuter and live at home, I still have some long days. Sometimes, my day may not totally end until around eight or nine at night. My mom and I made a goal to cook meals at least two to three days a week. We do our best to cook a lot of food on the days that are not as long for me. That way, we can ensure we will have enough leftovers that can be simply heated up and ready to eat immediately on the longer days. In a sense, I am eating quote unquote "fast food" that's been cooked at home and healthier. We would not have to worry about cooking a meal that's tedious nor an unhealthy dinner. We've been doing our best to eat actual fast food as sparingly as possible, to where it becomes the last resort. The truth is, you are what you eat. In other words, everything that you consume day in and day out is going to determine how you feel, how you perform, and so on. Furthermore, it is important to take a moment and evaluate yourself. I still attend monthly counseling sessions to help me cope with moments when my anxiety and emotions run high. I know that college, life, and the world are not always going to adjust to my needs. That's why I'm continuing to learn how to stay healthy and adapt to as much as possible. The bottom line is your health is the biggest priority to always keep an eye on.

Cultivating healthy eating habits sets the tone for how you do in your day-to-day life and how you will do in the future. Our bodies are so much more fragile than we think and need to be taken care of. Although I'm a commuter and live at home, I still have some long days. Sometimes, my day may not totally end until around eight or nine at night. My mom and I made a goal to cook meals at least two to three days a week. We do our best to cook a lot of food on the days that are not as long for me. That way, we can ensure we will have enough leftovers that can be simply heated up and ready to eat immediately on the longer days. In a sense, I am eating quote unquote "fast food" that's been cooked at home and healthier. We would not have to worry about cooking a meal that's tedious nor an unhealthy dinner. We've been doing our best to eat actual fast food as sparingly as possible, to where it becomes the last resort. I value eating healthy so much, because it truly dictates how you function both physically and mentally. I make sure to eat three healthy and well-balanced meals to keep me focused, motivated, mindful and alert. When I practice healthy eating habits. I find that I am in a better mood, and have more energy, which encourages productivity. In other words, it is so much easier for me to get a lot done. As you can see, I have learned how beneficial eating healthy is not only for your physical health, but your mental health as well. Practicing those habits is what's helping me stay the happy and healthy college student that I am. As a little girl, I was a picky eater. Meanwhile, I learned early on why eating healthy is vital, which encouraged me to expand my pallet and try new foods. Because of it, I will eat virtually anything that gets put in front of me. I still remind myself to eat healthy, to ensure that my body functions properly. The truth is, you are what you eat. Everything that you consume day in and day out is going to determine how you feel, how you perform, and so on. The bottom line is your health is the biggest priority to always keep an eye on.

The fact that I'm inching myself towards my dream career is what excites me. The purpose of college is to get you ready for a career that requires such expertise that you can only gain from taking associated classes. Last year, I earned my high school diploma and associates degree from Daytona State College simultaneously. Currently, I am studying psychology and anthropology at Stetson University. My next goal is to graduate next year and go to graduate school. Ultimately, my ambition is to become a Cognitive Behavioral Therapist for children and adolescents. Although I'm a commuter and live at home, I still have some long days. Sometimes, my day may not totally end until around eight or nine at night. My mom and I made a goal to cook meals at least two to three days a week. We do our best to cook a lot of food on the days that are not as long for me. That way, we can ensure we will have enough leftovers that can be simply heated up and ready to eat immediately on the longer days. In a sense, I am eating quote unquote "fast food" that's been cooked at home and healthier. We would not have to worry about cooking a meal that's tedious nor an unhealthy dinner. We've been doing our best to eat actual fast food as sparingly as possible, to where it becomes the last resort. I value eating healthy so much, because it truly dictates how you function both physically and mentally. I make sure to eat three healthy and well-balanced meals to keep me focused, motivated, mindful and alert. Practicing those habits is what's helping me stay the happy and healthy college student that I am. As a little girl, I was a picky eater. Meanwhile, I learned early on why eating healthy is vital, which encouraged me to expand my pallet and try new foods. Because of it, I will eat virtually anything that gets put in front of me. I still remind myself to eat healthy, to ensure that my body functions properly. The truth is, you are what you eat. In other words, everything that you consume day in and day out is going to determine how you feel, how you perform, and so on. Furthermore, it is important to take a moment and evaluate yourself. I attend monthly counseling sessions to help me cope with moments when my anxiety and emotions run high. I know that college, life, and the world are not always going to adjust to my needs. That's why I'm continuing to learn how to stay healthy and adapt to as much as possible. The bottom line is your health is the biggest priority to always keep an eye on.

Hi there! My name is Jordan Cruz. I'm a first-generation college student studying psychology and anthropology at Stetson University. I am a non-denominational Christian and come from a single-parent household. Yes, my father is in my life, but for many reasons, I give my mom so much credit for absolutely everything she has done for me. When I was nine years old, we learned that I had to repeat the third grade. That was because I did not pass the required standardized tests to move on to fourth grade right away. Knowing I was being held back was a hard pill to swallow, especially after realizing that the majority of my peers were being promoted without me. Nonetheless, we made sure to stay optimistic and have a good attitude. Looking back, I realized that this was part of God's plan, and my only choice was to keep walking faithfully and trusting in the Lord. Meanwhile, my mom selflessly decided to not get a job, which allowed one-on-one time for projects and homework. Although that meant not working and becoming a stay-home mom, the sacrifice was well worth it and will never be taken for granted. At the end of the school year, we got the news from my teacher that I passed the standardized tests and was promoted to the fourth grade. Saying we were overjoyed is an understatement, because the hard work paid off, and we saw a beam of light greet us at the end of the tunnel. It was not always easy for us to meet that goal. There were moments where frustration ran high, overcame us both, and resulted in hours of tears. In the end, we always turned it around and reverted to more positive, productive, and independent thinking. During the middle of the fifth grade school year, my parents got divorced. That was also a tough time for us and was probably even harder than repeating third grade. My mom and I chose to keep our heads held high and process the divorce at a turtle's pace. That meant taking it all one day at a time, which helped us learn major lessons we probably would not have learned. She taught me to always keep a smile on my face and know that everything is temporary, even if it feels permanent. This gave me an epiphany of the bible verse from Isaiah 43:1-3, which says, "Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name, you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you; when you walk through fire you shall not be burned, and the flame shall not consume you. For I am the Lord you God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior." This verse has reminded me that in life, there are times when we are forced to navigate rough waters. God will always be with us in the middle of the storm because he knows what battles we will need to fight. The only thing he needs us to do is be still, knowing he is in control. My mom has reminded me that our thoughts can become things. When we think about something we want to achieve and put our mind to it, we can make that thought become a goal, and ultimately an accomplishment. I could not imagine my life without her. She is my backbone and because of her, I have been molded into the individual I am today. She deserves all the praise and accolades.

Hi there! My name is Jordan. I'm a first-generation college student studying psychology and anthropology at Stetson University. My mental health journey started in 5th grade. It was at the time mental health wasn't being as talked about, especially youth mental health. I experienced high waves of anxiety that I wore as a security blanket almost daily. Oftentimes, I couldn't quite demystify where the anxiety was stemming from. Eventually, physical effects such as fatigue, lethargy, nausea, weight loss, and delayed growth emerged as a result. My parents were worried, because it became abundantly clear that I was struggling. Fast forward to 7th grade. For the majority of the year, I was a target for bullying, which made me feel vulnerable and inferior. This time, I went through possible depression. Nearly every day, I would cry either in the bathroom at school, as soon as I got home and felt safe, or I would cry myself to sleep. It made me feel like a burden on my friends, teachers, and even my own family. Looking back, I was bottling up so much for so long, that my feelings were about to get the best of me. Although it took a lot of time and courage, I opened up to my parents about what I was going through. They were caring, understanding, nurturing, supportive, and agreed to get me professional help. From there, I started attending monthly counseling sessions. I still to this day see the same therapist, and I am incredibly thankful for it. I'm proud to say that my mental health has tremendously improved. I still have moments of falling down, but in the end, I get right back up. Counseling has helped me acquire more effective coping mechanisms for episodes of sadness and fear. One of the things I have taken away is that mental health is a subject that needs to be destigmatized. Sadly, it doesn't get as much deserved attention as physical health, which creates a gap. However, we can fill the gap by spreading awareness, educating ourselves, and showing care. Another major thing is that nobody is immune. I have so much to be thankful for in my life from wonderful parents, an amazing family, devoted friends, and much more. What I encountered may come as a shock to people, but mental health does not care how blissful your life is. On the outside, I was happy-go-lucky, but I fought an internal battle deep down inside. Just because someone's smiling and laughing, doesn't mean they're truly happy. You never know what's going on behind the scenes. My career goal is to become a Cognitive Behavioral Therapist for children and adolescents. I feel inspired to have a turn in advocating for those in need. Because of what I faced, I have become more empathetic. When I learn that someone is struggling, I easily take a moment to put myself in their shoes and express how I can relate. I want my future clients to know how much their feelings matter and that it is okay to not be okay. Everyone must take a moment to check up on themselves. Everyone must take a break when their gut tells them to. Everyone has a brain that needs to be cared for each day. My message is that regardless of what you're currently facing, you are never alone. You're stronger than you think, and you are capable of conquering virtually anything that comes your way!

In March 2021, the unthinkable happened. My mom and I lost a loved one whose name was Tony, a good friend of my mom's, and a beloved father to two beautiful, precious, twin boys. From meeting him for the first time, to watching him and my mom get closer, to seeing a beautiful relationship blossom and making such awesome memories, there is so much I will forever cherish. During the relationship, he was like a second father. He was one of the funniest people I knew with had a witty sense of humor that got me giggling. One day, as my mom and I were driving home, she received a call from her friend who was also close to Tony. When I saw her crying, I knew from the get-go it couldn't be good. As soon as we got home, she confessed the news. The moment she enunciated these two words, "Tony died," I immediately broke down in utter devastation. I had never felt so much denial in my life. My heart sank, tears were flowing in waves, and the shock I experienced was through the roof. Considering how sudden the death was and not knowing the cause right away, my heart was feeling weighed down by a ton of bricks. The only thing that came to my mind was how did this happen? After some time, we got an answer. Without going into grave detail, the cause was easily preventable and beyond everyone's comprehension. I felt the psychological shock turn into indignation that filled me from head to toe. This was the stage of anger and bargaining. He and my mom talked on the phone several days prior. It was mind-boggling to think one minute he was his usual self and the next thing you know he's gone. My heart ached for my mom, his boys, his parents, and the rest of his family. It took tons of time for me to get through the grieving process. I chose to take it at a snail's pace and have patience with myself because it gave me the chance to learn essential lessons. Eventually, I found my closure and reached the stage of acceptance. Despite the cause being so tragic, I knew that there was nothing we could do to bring Tony back. I also made sure to keep in mind that the death was far out of our control. Knowing God had our backs gave me peace because he reminded me that he is in a better place. My current career ambition is to become a Cognitive Behavioral Therapist for children and adolescents. The stages of grief are something I value and want to teach others, especially those in the same boat as me. I consider myself a hard-headed, go-getter, strong-willed, and goal-oriented person when it comes to aspirations. I feel even more encouraged to continue fighting for what I want to achieve. I feel a natural, internal drive in myself that tells me to keep going. I have also taken away that is okay to not be okay. It is okay to allow yourself to grieve. Without denial, acceptance would lose its definition. Looking back, I gained a greater understanding of what the denial stage is and how it feels when his death happened. I have become much more knowledgeable about grief and the different ways people process it. My message to others who have lost a loved one is to remember your worth and strength. No matter what, God has a divine plan and will provide a way to help you conquer any obstacles you face.

To me, reducing or eliminating the amount of trash you produce altogether is the most impactful way to combat climate change. What we use and throw away is what impacts the environment and can lead to global warming. Most of the time, trash goes to landfills, which emit dangerous gases into the air. Thus, that results in air pollution and ultimately climate change. I strive to fight climate change in my life by researching everyday things that are biodegradable and environmentally friendly. During my freshman year of high school, I had taken a global perspectives class. A lot of the material we learned involved sustainable living. One day, my teacher showed us a video about a humanitarian named Rob Greenfield, who used to own a tiny house in Orlando. The house was only 100 square feet, built for under 1500 dollars, and consisted of 99 percent repurposed, second-hand materials, while creating just about 30 pounds of trash. Not only that, but he had an outdoor kitchen, a propane camp stove, a biogas system for his cooking, and even outdoor toilets and showers. Rob is a vegetarian, grows the majority of his food and does not even drive a car. While it boggled my mind to see all those features, I felt inspired to inch the world away from climate change. My grandma Maria has been growing things in a garden and is passionate about living sustainably. I admire Rob's lifestyle and decided to share what I learned with her. After telling her about the video I watched, she proceeded to tell me that she once met Rob Greenfield. Meanwhile, he hosted an event in Orlando that I got to attend. It was an honor being able to meet him in person and learn so much from him. I still to this day continue to see his posts on social media and watch his videos on Youtube. Acquiring knowledge and following his tips on how to live a healthy, sustainable lifestyle gives me hope that I can spread awareness and make the world a better place. I hope to see Rob Greenfield anytime he is in the area again and continue to learn from him. Indeed, there is room for improvement. Nonetheless, we can all manifest in the best things possible, as long as we put our minds and dedication toward our goals. We are capable of making the world a better place. It's up to us and only us. If Rob Greenfield can do it, so can you.

To me, reducing or eliminating the amount of trash you produce altogether is the most impactful way to combat climate change. Most of the time, trash goes to landfills, which emit dangerous gases into the air. Thus, that results in air pollution and ultimately climate change. I strive to fight climate change in my life by researching everyday things that are biodegradable and environmentally friendly. During my freshman year of high school, I had taken a global perspectives class. A lot of the material we learned involved sustainable living. One day, my teacher showed us a video about a humanitarian named Rob Greenfield, who used to own a tiny house in Orlando. The house was only 100 square feet, built for under 1500 dollars, and consisted of 99 percent repurposed, second-hand materials, while creating just about 30 pounds of trash. Not only that, but he had an outdoor kitchen, a propane camp stove, a biogas system for his cooking, and even outdoor toilets and showers. Rob is a vegetarian, grows the majority of his food and does not even drive a car. While it boggled my mind to see all those features, I felt inspired to inch the world away from climate change. My grandma Maria has been growing things in a garden and is passionate about living sustainably. I admire Rob's lifestyle and decided to share what I learned with her. After telling her about the video I watched, she proceeded to tell me that she once met Rob Greenfield. Meanwhile, he hosted an event in Orlando that I got to attend. It was an honor being able to meet him in person and learn so much from him. I still to this day continue to see his posts on social media and watch his videos on Youtube. Acquiring knowledge and following his tips on how to live a healthy, sustainable lifestyle gives me hope that I can spread awareness and make the world a better place. I hope to see Rob Greenfield anytime he is in the area again and continue to learn from him. Indeed, there is room for improvement. Nonetheless, we can all manifest in the best things possible, as long as we put our minds and dedication toward our goals. We are capable of making the world a better place. It's up to us and only us. If Rob Greenfield can do it, so can you.

Understanding the nature of the world is important because it gives us a greater idea of what led to our existence. My favorite scientific discovery is the cell theory because I've always been interested in how humans and virtually all organisms in the world are made. At a young age, I wondered how babies and humans in general are made. I remember asking my parents and learning about how it works, which had me intrigued. 6th grade came and I learned about cells in my science class. I asked myself, what is a cell and what is its purpose? That's when I learned that cells are the basic structural and functional units of all living things. Then I knew if it wasn't for cells, we would not be alive, nor plants and animals. Those three parties have no way of thriving without cells. Although cells are incredibly small and invisible to the naked eye, they make a tremendous, universal step in molding the organisms that exist in the world. Eventually, I learned about the types of cell divisions, which are meiosis and mitosis. It answered my previous question. Although this discovery is theoretical, it has made a huge impact on scientific studies. I'm sure many people have seen products labeled as Genetically Modified Organisms or GMOs. What do you think is one of the things that vastly help with this process? You guessed it, cells. Those special products have had changes introduced into their DNA using the methods of genetic engineering. If you think about it, DNA is highly involved in cells. Therefore, if it weren't for cells, we would have no DNA, or genetics in general. Evolution is another thing that provides great insight. I recently added a minor in anthropology, which involves how humans have evolved over the years. It's almost unbelievable to think we went from primates to the humans we are today. Charles Darwin proposed the theory of evolution, which states that organisms changed over time as a result of modifications in physical and behavioral traits. If you think about it, psychology and evolution go hand-in-hand, hence why there is the concept of evolutionary psychology. I am majoring in psychology, which has me eager to learn how we acquired the behaviors we have today. While there are genetic and sociocultural perspectives, there are also evolutionary perspectives that explain where our behaviors stem from. Without realization, this is something many of us take for granted. We should thank Theodor Schwann and Charles Darwin for proposing these remarkable discoveries, as it gives great evidence and answers to questions, just like they did for me.

Hi there! My name is Jordan Cruz. I'm a first-generation college student studying psychology and anthropology at Stetson University. My career ambition is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for children and adolescents. Being that I'm an individual that has faced mental health obstacles in the past and has been a client in counseling therapy, I'm hugely passionate about potentially having a turn to advocate for those in need. My mental health journey started in 5th grade. It was at the time mental health was not being as talked about as it is now, especially youth mental health. I experienced high waves of anxiety almost every day that lead to meltdowns when I was home and felt safe. Physical effects such as fatigue, lethargy, nausea, weight loss, and delayed growth emerged as a result. Throughout most of the 7th grade, I was a target for bullying, which made me feel inferior and vulnerable. I was hardly happy and cried almost daily, because of how mentally hurt and distraught the bullying made me feel. Looking back, I spent so much time trying to bottle up and conceal my true feelings. Eventually, there came a point when my mind told me enough is enough. That's when I opened up to my parents about what I went through. They were caring, understanding, nurturing, and supportive, and agreed to get me intervention, so I could have a better future. Since then, I have been attending monthly counseling sessions. I'm happy to say that my mental health has tremendously improved because of it. Meanwhile, my faith started to grow in God, and almost four years ago, I decided to get baptized. During my senior year of high school, I joined the Fellowship of Christian Athletes club and became an officer. I went to weekly meetings and spoke at bible studies and huddles. In fact, I had the courage to share my testimony in front of about fifty people. Although it was nerve-wracking, I am thankful to have had the opportunity to share God's word and touch other people's hearts. What I hope in the future is to use my experience to help others feel not alone and that it is always okay to not be okay. Spreading the important knowledge I have gained about mental health and how unequivocal they truly are can increase awareness and empathy throughout the global community. The more the words get spread, the more expertise we can all acquire.

Volunteering has encouraged me to have more selflessness. To me, it's about giving to our community, which includes our peers and other people. Our community can sort of be seen as an audience. This means that we must pay attention to what we want people around us to see and understand in the world we currently live in. Throughout my high school career, I have obtained over one hundred community service hours. When I was a freshman, I made the goal to earn that amount by the time I graduated high school. Sure enough, I have not only met the goal, but I surpassed it in a way, that I thought would have been virtually impossible. I was involved in the Earth First Club, Kiwanis Educates Youth (KEY) club, National Honors Society, and Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) club. However, my all-time favorite club that I joined would have to be FCA. I was an officer my senior year, in which I attended meetings, spoke at bible studies, and special huddles. I shared my testimony and spread God's word to students. Many of them did not know who God was, so it was an honor to have educated others on how to build a firm foundation with the Lord. As a matter of fact, I am in the FCA club at Stetson University and hope to become an officer in my senior year. I am incredibly passionate about helping people around me get to know God and why it's important to put your faith and trust in him. If I were to win this scholarship, it will be a huge help towards my education, which in turn will be ultimately helpful towards my career. My career ambition is to become a Cognitive Behavioral Therapist for children and adolescents in the future. Along with counseling clients, I want to spread God's word and remind them that he will help them conquer any curveball that comes from the supernatural force that we call life. Not only will this scholarship provide coverage during my time in college, but it will give me so much hope that I will continue inching myself toward the career I am currently pursuing. I graduated high school in 2022 with my Associate of Arts degree from Daytona State College. From undergraduate, to graduate school, and possibly more advanced education and training, I still have a somewhat long way to go. Nonetheless, that does not mean that it is impossible. In fact, anything is possible through God's glory.

Hi there! I'm Jordan Cruz, a first-generation college student studying Psychology and Anthropology at Stetson University. I am also a child of a single mother. When I was eleven-going-on-twelve, my parents got divorced. Although it was a difficult thing for us to face, we made sure to stay strong and optimistic. I'm a firm believer that God has a reason for everything that happens in life. Therefore, I made sure to stay faithful and trusting in the Lord, knowing he had our backs and his plans for the future. Yes, my father is in my life and has also taught me many lessons that I will always convey. However, I am beyond thankful for how much my mom has helped mold me into the individual I am today, especially through the obstacles we've faced. We have laughed together, cried together, navigated life together, and so much more. My career ambition is to be a Cognitive Behavioral Therapist for children and adolescents. Being that divorce is becoming increasingly prevalent nowadays, there are numerous children in the same boat that are also seeking advice. Many are also feeling alone in what they're facing. Therefore, I want to use my experience to hopefully help others to feel not alone. Since I am very spiritual, I hope to give people a visualization of the big picture of God's plans. Times like this may be hard to understand at first, but when you give yourself time and patience, one day you will. It's easy to say that I have personally learned that myself. It was difficult for me to fathom what was going on, but my perspectives now have hugely changed. God has taught me so much that I will make sure to always keep in mind. There are moments when we need to move at a pace as slow as a turtle when we process things. It took a while for me to fully process the fact that the divorce happened. Nonetheless, trusting in God allowed me to remember that his plans are for our benefit. Throughout my career, I vow to spread these words of wisdom to other people and remind them that they are capable of conquering virtually any curveballs that come from the supernatural force that we call life. In all honesty, I would not trade my current life for anything else. I am thankful for absolutely everything that God has provided for us!

Hi there! My name is Jordan. I am a first-generation college student pursuing a major in Psychology and a minor in Anthropology at Stetson University. As you can see, Psychology is the field I plan on going into. Ultimately my career goal is to become a Cognitive Behavioral Therapist for children and adolescents. The main reason for choosing the field and career is that I am incredibly passionate about mental health. I am one of those people that has faced obstacles with mental health in the past. My mental health journey started for me when I was in 5th grade. It was at the time mental health wasn't being focused on like it is now, especially youth mental health. I suffered from high waves of anxiety that I wore as a security blanket almost every day. Looking back, I was worried about things other children weren't, and almost all the time, I was going virtually everywhere wearing a smile on my face, as if it were a sticker. Then would come a meltdown, when I was home and felt safe. Oftentimes, it was hard for me to entirely demystify where the anxiety was stemming from. Eventually, physical effects such as fatigue, lethargy, nausea, weight loss, and delayed growth emerged as a result. My parents were worried because it became abundantly clear to them that I was struggling. When middle school started, my mental health seemed to be improving, or so I thought. For most of the 7th grade, I was a target for bullying, which made me feel weak and vulnerable. Almost every day, I would cry either in the bathroom at school, I would cry when I was home alone, or I would cry myself to sleep on many nights. At that point, the emotions I bottled up nearly got the best of me, and I knew it was time, to be honest with my parents. Although it may have taken lots of time, deep thinking, and courage, I opened up to them about how I was truly feeling. They were caring, understanding, and supportive, and agreed to get me professional help. Since then, I have been attending monthly counseling sessions with an amazing, knowledgeable therapist with exceptional tips and expertise. Because of it, my mental health has improved tremendously. As of right now, I'm proud to say that I am happier, more faithful to God, and independent. I still have downfalls here and there, but I always find a way to get back up. I have felt inspired to follow the associated career goal. It will be an honor to have a turn to advocate for those in need. I want to teach people that mental health is a serious matter and needs to be destigmatized. While not everyone has a diagnosed mental illness, absolutely everyone has mental health. Everyone has a brain that needs to be cared for on a daily basis. It is more than our head and neck having a connection. Many people feel ashamed of their mental struggles, so reminding them that you should not be ashamed is something I want others to see. Having a mental illness is equivalent to having a cold. It's out of your control and you can't help it. Therefore, the message I want to bring out is that it is okay to not be okay.

Hi there! My name is Jordan Cruz. I'm a first-generation college student studying psychology and anthropology at Stetson University. I must admit that I was put to the test by the curveballs that come from a supernatural force called life. However, there are so many major lessons that I learned through what I faced. Life is not always going to consist of the moon, stars and rainbows. We all have fought battles and will fight battles. Some are obvious, others not so much. At the time I was nine, my parents and I learned that I needed to repeat third grade. That was because I did not pass the standardized tests to be promoted to fourth grade. That was one of the hardest pills to swallow. Nonetheless, that did not hinder me from meeting my educational goals. Toward the end of the school year, we got the news that I passed the required standardized tests and was eligible to move on to fourth grade. My mom dedicated so much of her time to staying home, so we had one-on-one time for my homework, reading, and projects. There were moments of stress, frustration and tears. In the end, we made sure to revert to positive and productive thinking. Although that meant becoming a stay-home mom, the sacrifice was well worth it, and I'm incredibly thankful for it. Saying I was proud is an understatement because I worked super hard to meet such a big goal. I saw a beam of light welcome me at the end of the tunnel. When I was eleven going on twelve, my parents got divorced. It was a difficult time for me, but I knew God had a plan and reason. I made sure to maintain a positive attitude, keep a smile on my face, and be successful, which helped the sorrow to melt away. I made sure to remind myself that I am loved by both of them and determined to make them proud. 7th grade came and I discovered that the majority of the people in my dance class were bullying me. It took a toll on my mental health because I felt inferior to everyone around me. Dance was not the easiest skill for me, considering my coordination and physical flexibility aren't the strongest. That inevitably led to being bullied and victimized. Although it hurt me, I made sure to try my hardest and my dance teacher praised me for it. I even earned two awards for hard work and being the best listener, which was undoubtedly meaningful. It was clear that she noticed how much I pushed myself. The hardships I endured have molded me into the person I am today. Life can be seen as a yin-yang. In other words, there's darkness in light and light in darkness. Having resilience has overpowered the face of adversity and made me a stronger individual. I have also enriched my faith and relationship with God, which has helped me navigate the now that I live in and my eventual future. Through the good, the bad, and the ugly, there is so much I am grateful for. With moments that are hard to demystify, I am reminded by God to be still and have patience. Unequivocally, my perspectives have hugely changed as a result of what I faced. It is now my turn to advocate for those going through similar obstacles. Always remember that you are capable of conquering virtually anything that you put your mind to. Smile, give advice, work hard, know your worth, and never give up.

Hi there! My name is Jordan. I'm a first-generation college student pursuing a major in psychology and a minor in anthropology at Stetson University. I also come from a single-parent and low-income household. At the time I was almost twelve years old, my parents got divorced. It was one of the hardest things for me to face in my life, especially since I was still at a very young age. Although the divorce was difficult for me to process, I knew in my heart that God had a plan that was for our benefit. I made sure to remain faithful and continue to trust in God, knowing he had our backs, which gave me peace. Coming from my current household has helped me persevere through obstacles I have faced by teaching me that there is always light at the end of the tunnel. During the time of the divorce and the other challenges I faced, I made sure to stay optimistic. I firmly believe that everything in life happens for a reason. We may not understand right away, but as we continue to navigate through life over time, one day we will. It's easy to say that my perspectives have evolved so much. I also feel that I gained much more independence, especially as I got older. Let's face it. I know that life and the world are not always going to adjust to my needs. Therefore, I must learn how to adapt as much as possible. Being independent plays a major role because it's about depending on your instincts and knowledge, especially in situations where you're forced to take serious action. I feel inspired to become a Cognitive Behavioral Therapist for children and adolescents. I plan to use my experience to help my future clients know that they are never alone whatsoever. I am also very spiritual, so spreading God's word and informing others on why we should always put our trust in the Lord is another thing I want to do. We live in a civilized society where we must look out for one another and help those in need. It would be an honor to have a turn in advocating for people that are genuinely seeking advice. Mental health is something I am hugely passionate about, especially being an individual who has faced obstacles with their mental health in the past. We must see more awareness of mental health, as it is a subject that needs to be destigmatized. I hope my future career can make an impact on my community and potentially the world as a whole.

In March 2021, my mom and I lost a loved one. His name was Tony, a good friend of my moms, and a beloved father to two beautiful, precious, twin boys. From meeting him for the first time, to watching him and my mom get closer, to seeing a beautiful relationship blossom and making such awesome memories, there is so much I will forever cherish. During the relationship, he was like a second father to me. He was one of the funniest people I knew with had a witty sense of humor that got me giggling. One day, my mom and I went out for ice cream. As we were driving home, she received a call from her friend who was also close to Tony. When I saw her crying and overheard the conversation about Tony, I knew from the get-go it couldn't be good. Although I had an idea of what happened, I didn't pay much attention, since all I could do was focus on my driving. However, she confessed the news to me, as soon as we got home. The moment she enunciated these two words, "Tony died," I immediately broke down in utter devastation. I had never felt so much denial in my life. My heart sank, tears were flowing in waves, and the shock I experienced was through the roof. Considering how sudden the death was and not knowing the cause right away, my heart was feeling weighed down by a ton of bricks. The only thing that came to my mind was how did this happen? After some time, we got an answer. Without going into grave detail, the cause was easily preventable and beyond everyone's comprehension. He had no underlying health conditions whatsoever and was very young. I felt the psychological shock turn into indignation that filled me from head to toe. This was the stage of anger and bargaining. I was thinking, why did this happen? He and my mom were talking on the phone several days prior. It was mind-boggling to think one minute he was his usual self and the next thing you know he's gone. He did not deserve to die. My heart was aching for my mom, his boys, his parents, and the rest of his family. It took tons of time for me to get through the grieving process. I chose to take it at a snail's pace and have patience with myself because it gave me the chance to learn essential lessons to apply in life. Eventually, I found my closure and reached the stage of acceptance. The sorrow I felt slowly melted away. Despite the cause of the death being so tragic, I knew that there was nothing we could do to bring Tony back. I also made sure to keep in mind that the death was far out of our control. Knowing God had our backs gave me peace because he reminded me that he is in a better place. One of the major lessons I have taken away is that you should never take life for granted. In the blink of an eye, anything and everything can change. The truth is, you never know what you have until it's gone. That's why we should all be grateful and appreciative of the people and things that God brings into our lives. Although it sounds biblical, it's true. My current career ambition is to become a Cognitive Behavioral Therapist for children and adolescents. The stages of grief are something I value and want to teach others, especially those in the same boat as me. I consider myself a hard-headed, go-getter, strong-willed, and goal-oriented person when it comes to aspirations. I feel even more encouraged to continue fighting for what I want to achieve. I feel a natural, internal drive in myself that tells me to keep going. I have also taken away that is okay to not be okay. It is okay to allow yourself to grieve. In the end, it makes you a stronger person than you were ever before. This is something I have learned and will convey forevermore. Without denial, acceptance would lose its definition. Looking back, I gained a greater understanding of what the denial stage is and how it feels when his death happened. I have become much more knowledgeable about grief and the different ways people process it. My message to others who have lost a loved one is to remember your worth and strength. No matter what, God has a divine plan and will provide a way to help you conquer any obstacles you face.

Hi there. My name is Jordan Cruz. I am a first-generation college student pursuing a major in Psychology and a minor in Anthropology at Stetson University. I want to see mental health destigmatized. My ambition for a career is to become a Cognitive Behavioral Therapist for children and adolescents. For almost four years, I have had my heart set on psychology. I have a huge passion for helping other people, especially after facing obstacles with my mental health. 5th grade was when my mental health journey began. It was during the time mental health was not being as talked about as it is now, especially youth mental health. Looking back, one word I would describe myself at the time is a worrier. Almost every day of my life, I faced high waves of anxiety. I was worried about things other children weren't, and it was hard for me to demystify where the anxiety was directly stemming from. Eventually, physical effects such as lethargy, nausea, weight loss, and delayed growth occured as a result. My parents were worried, because it became clear that I was genuinely struggling. Almost halfway through my 7th grade year, I was being bullied. After I thought my mental health was improving, it took a turn for the worst again. I was crying every day and felt less than a person. I spent so much time trying to bottle up my feelings, and I knew it wasn't healthy. Although it took a lot of time and courage, I opened up to my parents about what I was going through. They were supportive, caring, understanding, and agreed to get me professional help. Since then, I have been seeing a counselor on a monthly basis. Going to therapy has unequivocally changed my mental health for the better. I still have occasional downfalls, but I manage to get back up, because of my counselors wonderful tips for tough episodes. I have felt inspired to have a turn in advocating for those in need. I hope to use my personal experience to help people feel not alone and remember that it is okay to not be okay. We are human and life is not always going to be the moon, stars and rainbows. Many people feel ashamed for what they face. The truth is, a mental illness is equivalent to having a cold. The truth is, you can't help it and it's never your fault. While not everyone has a diagnosed mental illness, absolutely everyone has mental health. We all have a brain that we must care for every day. My hope is that me advocating will help people to see the importance of mental health even more and why it's imperative to keep us going. It is far more than our neck and head having a connection. Thank you bold for giving me the chance to share my story and passion for my career goal. I hope it touches those reading it from behind the screen and helps you remember your worth. My friendly reminder is that you are capable of conquering virtually anything that you put your mind to.

Although I'm not much of a reader, it's easy for me to think of a book that truly changed my mindset and perspectives on things. I can trace this back to when I read the book 'Inside Out and Back Again' in my 8th grade reading class. The novel was about a ten-year old girl named Ha that was forced to leave Vietnam, her hometown, during the fall of Saigon in 1975. Considering that Vietnam was war-torn, her and her family's only option was to immigrate to the United States. Knowing she had to leave so much behind turned her life inside out. She had to learn English, which was difficult, since that was not her native language. Although she was being bullied and faced other obstacles, she was able to adapt to a new lifestyle and stay strong for herself. She made new friends and was excelling in school. No matter what, she made sure to persevere. A major lesson I learned after reading this book is to always be thankful for what you have. Because we live in such a free country, many take so much for granted. Therefore, we should appreciate the little things, as they are just as meaningful. This is because in the blink of an eye, everything can change dramatically. The truth is, you never know what you have until it's gone. Another way it has impacted me is that the story encouraged me to stay optimistic and keep my eye on the brightside. Anytime I'm going through something that seeks to bring me down, I remind myself that I am not alone. I also make sure to remember that there are people out there going through far worse situations than I am. It's about knowing that there will be light at the end of the tunnel and God is in control of what may get in your way. Having faith is key, when it comes to curveballs that come from what we call life. Last but not least, the story taught me that life and the world are not always going to adjust to our needs. We must learn how to adapt to as much as possible. The novel clearly depicts that evidence. Unequivocally, Ha was forced to go far beyond her comfort zone and get adjusted to huge changes. We must be prepared for anything to happen in any moment of time. It is an honor to have read that book and be able to share how much it meant to me. I may not be a bookworm, but I will forever appreciate how much of an eye-opener her story truly was. Thank you bold for allowing me to share the takeaways I received. Hearing a story can go a long way.

To me, generational wealth means having financial stability in the family. My great-grandmother her whole life was always incredibly frugal. She would try spending money as sparingly as possible. I admire how remarkably well she would do with saving money and only spending very little each month. Being frugal is a great trait to have because it shows how much you care about your savings. This has inspired me to watch how much I spend monthly and focus more on what is needed. This has helped me understand the big picture when you save money. Every penny, dime, nickel, quarter and dollar that is saved can go a long way. I have been reminded that living frugally ensures that you have financial stability. For example, emergency funds are majorly helpful, especially if you don't have insurance. In fact, I have a small compartment in my car where my emergency money is stored. That way, I can set aside money that I may need in the event of an emergency. Learning about credit card debt and how it can be detrimental is another thing that has encouraged me to acquire careful spending habits. When you use a credit card, you're spending money that does not directly belong to you. You can equate it to taking out a loan, because it's money that you're borrowing and will have to pay back monthly. You would think that the more you spend, the more your credit score is going to increase. It's the complete opposite because it will only do more harm than good. Spending ten percent of your credit limit and making on-time payments for your monthly bills is what helps enhance your credit. Unfortunately, credit card debt is one of those situations that are easy to get into and hard to get out of. According to the latest consumer debt data from the Federal Reserve Bank in New York, America's total credit card balance is $925 billion in the third quarter of last year alone. Hearing that statement was an attention-grabber. It opened my eyes even more and encouraged me to stay conscientious. This lets me know that building credit is great, but when you're spending far more than you can remotely pay for from your external banking account, it becomes harder to get your bills paid on time. That in turn, is what will lead to debt. If your debt gets to a certain degree, it can end up in collections. Credit card issuers are more than likely not going to provide total forgiveness. Passing down what I learned to future generations will help people to understand the importance of saving money. It can go a long way for a healthy and fulfilling life. The bottom line is if you save money, you may live better, because a penny saved is a penny earned.

Hi there. My name is Jordan. I'm a first-generation college student pursuing a major in psychology and a minor in anthropology at Stetson University. I graduated high school in 2022, and earned my Associate of Arts degree from Daytona State College simultaneously. In the past, I must admit that I've faced obstacles with my mental health. It was at the time mental health wasn't being talked about as much as it is now, especially youth mental health. It started to interfere with a lot of daily aspects, so I knew getting myself into therapy was necessary. Since 7th grade, I have been attending monthly counseling sessions. I've been speaking with an amazing, knowledgeable counselor with great tips and expertise. Going to counseling has helped my mental health improve tremendously. Several people I know in a similar boat as me were also seeking therapy. As much as they wanted what was best for themselves, I wanted what was best for them. I referred them to the counseling center I currently go to, by giving them the website and contact information. Some of them are actually going to counseling at the same office. It was an honor, knowing I was able to give back to my community this way. A small act like this truly went a long way. After next year, my goals are to go to graduate school, get my master's degree, and become a Cognitive Behavioral Therapist for children and adolescents. The hardships I went through with my mental health, going to counseling, and referring some people to where I go has inspired me to have a turn in advocating for those in need. Although mental health is getting more respect and focus that it deserves, it is still a subject that needs to be destigmatized. While not everyone has a diagnosed mental illness, absolutely everyone has a brain that needs to be cared for. I hope to use this message to help people see the big picture and know that it is okay to not be okay. Many feel ashamed because of what they deal with. The truth is, having a mental illness is equivalent to having a cold. It's never your fault and you can't help it. I also hope my experience I share with others will help them to feel not alone. I want them to feel included, regardless of what they go through. Thank you bold for giving me the chance to share my story. I hope it touches those reading it from the screen and helps you know your worth.

First of all, I have received great financial advice, which has helped me become more knowledgeable. However, if I had to think of the best piece of financial advice, it would be, "A penny saved is a penny earned," as coined by Benjamin Franklin. My great-grandmother her whole life was always incredibly frugal. She would try spending money as sparingly as possible. I admire how remarkably well she would do with saving money and only spending very little each month. Being frugal is a great trait to have because it shows how much you care about your savings. This has inspired me to watch how much I spend monthly and focus more on what is needed. This has helped me understand the big picture when you save money. Every penny, dime, nickel, quarter and dollar that is saved can go a long way. I have been reminded that living frugally ensures that you have financial stability. For example, emergency funds are majorly helpful, especially if you don't have insurance. In fact, I have a small compartment in my car where my emergency money is stored. That way, I can set aside money that I may need in the event of an emergency. This is because the truth is, I never know when I may encounter a crisis that requires me to get serious intervention. Therefore, I must stay prepared every day, as if it could happen in the blink of an eye. Learning about credit card debt and how it can be detrimental is another thing that has encouraged me to acquire careful spending habits. When you use a credit card, you're spending money that does not directly belong to you. It's money that belongs to the associated credit card company. You can equate it to taking out a loan, because it's money that you're borrowing and will have to pay back monthly, as your credit card bill. You would think that the more you spend, the more your credit score is going to increase. It's the complete opposite because it will only do more harm than good. Spending ten percent of your credit limit and making on-time payments for your monthly bills is what helps enhance your credit. Unfortunately, credit card debt is one of those situations that are easy to get into and hard to get out of. According to the latest consumer debt data from the Federal Reserve Bank in New York, America's total credit card balance is $925 billion in the third quarter of last year alone. Hearing that statement was an attention-grabber. It opened my eyes even more and encouraged me to stay conscientious. This lets me know that building credit is great, but when you're spending far more than you can remotely pay for from your external banking account, it becomes harder to get your bills paid on time. That in turn, is what will lead to debt. If your debt gets to a certain degree, it can end up in collections. Credit card issuers are more than likely not going to provide total forgiveness. If you think about it, there is a very distinctive difference between needs and wants. To make this clear, needs are things that are imperative for our survival. Food, water, and shelter are a must to keep us safe and healthy. Wants on the other hand are things that evoke satisfaction and are not necessary for survival. Occasional splurging is not inherently a negative thing. We need to allow ourselves to have some fun in our lives and feel enjoyment, but we must prioritize our spending. Setting one or more budgets is key when saving up. If you want to live a healthy, fulfilling life, saving money can help you accomplish that goal. It does not have to mean being a millionaire or as rich as a celebrity. Setting a goal like that isn't always the most feasible goal. Instead having enough to where you can support yourself, for the sake of your health and safety should be your main goal. It is attainable, as long as you stay cautious and work for it. The bottom line is if you save money, you may live better. Once again, a penny saved is a penny earned.

Hi there! My name is Jordan. I'm a first-generation college student pursuing a major in Psychology and a minor in Anthropology at Stetson University. Although I faced curveballs that come from what we call life, I have proudly become a stronger person, because of the learning experiences. At the time I was nine, my parents and I learned that I needed to repeat third grade. That was because I did not pass the standardized tests to be promoted to fourth grade. That was one of the hardest pills for us to swallow. Nonetheless, that did not hinder me from meeting my educational goals. Toward the end of the school year, we got the news that I passed the required standardized tests and was eligible to move on to fourth grade. My mom dedicated so much of her time to staying home, so we had one-on-one time for my homework, reading, and projects. There were moments of stress, frustration and tears. However, we made sure to revert to positive and productive thinking. Although that meant becoming a stay-home mom, the sacrifice was well worth it, and I'm incredibly thankful for it. Saying I was proud is an understatement because I worked super hard to meet such a big goal. I saw a beam of light welcome me at the end of the tunnel. When I was eleven going on twelve, my parents got divorced. It was a difficult time for me, but I knew God had a plan and reason. I made sure to maintain a positive attitude, keep a smile on my face, and be successful, which helped the sorrow to melt away. I made sure to remind myself that I am loved by both of them and determined to make them proud. 7th grade came and I discovered that the majority of the people in my dance class were bullying me. It took a toll on my mental health because I felt inferior to everyone around me. Dance was not the easiest skill for me, considering my coordination and physical flexibility aren't the strongest. That inevitably led to being bullied and victimized. Although it hurt me, I made sure to try my hardest and my dance teacher praised me for it. I even earned two awards for hard work and being the best listener, which was undoubtedly meaningful. It was clear that she noticed how much I pushed myself. The hardships I endured have molded me into the person I am today. Life can be seen as a yin-yang. In other words, there's darkness in light and light in the darkness. Having resilience has overpowered the face of adversity and made me a stronger individual. I have also enriched my faith and relationship with God, which has helped me navigate the now that I live in and my eventual future. Through the good, the bad, and the ugly, there is so much I am grateful for. With moments that are hard to demystify, I am reminded by God to be still and have patience. My perspectives have hugely changed as a result of what I faced. It is now my turn to advocate for those going through similar obstacles. Always remember that you are capable of conquering virtually anything that you put your mind to. Smile, give advice, work hard, know your worth, and never give up.

My mother has given me the most support and guidance over the course of my education. From beginning to end, she has always been by my side, doing so much for me, and I can't thank her enough for it. I struggled in third grade and unfortunately ended up getting held back, especially after not passing the required standardized tests to move on to fourth grade right away. It was scary and hard for both of us to process. I couldn't immediately envision how my future was going to unfold, but I made sure to stay hopeful. During the second year, my mom dedicated so much of her time to sitting with me during homework assignments, reading, and major projects. Even though that meant becoming a stay-home mom, the sacrifice she made for me was well worth it, and will never be taken for granted. This is one of the many things that has inspired me the most about her. We have laughed together, cried together, and struggled together to get me to where I am today. However, all the little things, including the one-on-one time, made for a huge gift to my education. When things did get difficult, she always reminded me to do my best, never give up, keep a smile on my face, and have an optimistic attitude, especially during the time I had to repeat third grade. She sat down with me almost every single day to help me with the homework that was given. Let's face it. There were moments when things got hard and frustration overcame us. Nonetheless, we made sure to revert to positive and productive thinking and maintain perseverance. At the end of the school year, my teacher gave us the news that I passed the required tests and was promoted to fourth grade. Saying we were thrilled to learn that I was moving up is an understatement. We were overjoyed and over-the-moon excited, knowing that a tough year, tough decision, and tough time gave us light at the end of the tunnel. When my mom announced the news on her Facebook, she wrote at the end of her post, "Feeling like a proud, accomplished, "I must be doing something right", mommy." She was right and deserved to feel that pride. I too was also proud to have reached such a major goal, which taught me that sometimes things are bound to get worse before they get better. Yes, my father is in my life and has done an amazing job at raising me as well. However, this all goes to my mom. She has taught me so much about tenacity, positivity, strong-willingness, and the list goes on. I am molded into the individual I am because of her. Without her, I would not be who I am or where I am today. Therefore, I am thankful for everything she has done for me. Thank you bold for giving me the chance to rave about her and share my story. I hope that my testimony touches those reading from the screen. To anyone who has lost a parent in any way, my heart goes out to you. Keep in mind that regardless of the circumstances and obstacles you face, you are capable of conquering virtually anything you set your mind to.

Financial management is vital, not only as a student but throughout life as a whole. However, acquiring proper habits with money early on can dictate how our future can look. Benjamin Franklin coined this famous phrase, "A Penny saved is a Penny earned." In other words, it is advisable to save money that you already have as it is to earn more. On an economic basis, the six main functions of money are durability, portability, divisibility, uniformity, acceptability, and limited supply. The bottom line is to save money. It may sound basic, but there is so much reasoning. When we save money, we are inching ourselves away from debt, which can be anxiety-inducing, especially in college. At the same time, it allows us to enjoy greater security in our lives. But why exactly should we save money? Because saving money helps navigate tricky situations, meet financial obligations, and ultimately build wealth. Emergency funds are the most crucial with budgeting, especially if you have no health insurance. In fact, I have a small compartment in my car where I store some spare money for emergencies. That way, if I'm running low on money, I at least can still get some help, even in a small way. Something unexpected is bound to happen and we never know. Therefore, setting money aside for those scenarios gives us the chance to be more readily prepared, and receive adequate intervention fast. We must give money the utmost trust. Even more so in emergencies that occur to ourselves or our loved ones. We live in a society where we have to be ready for anything. There is a very distinctive difference between having a need and a want. Needs in life are things that are necessary for our health and safety. We "need" them to live and function. Wants in life are simply desired items unnecessary for our quality of life. They make little to no difference whatsoever. Sometimes, they are easier said than done. I always put my needs first and think about how much more they mean than what I may want. Having occasions of splurging or treating yourself is not inherently bad. We have to allow ourselves to have some fun in life. However, being frugal and focusing on what we need more so than what we want is vital. We must fulfill our basic biological needs, such as food, water, and shelter. Once again, "A Penny Saved is a Penny Earned."

To me, being an American means having the freedom to become who you want to become and accomplish virtually anything that you put your mind to. From what we wear, what we eat, where we live, who we marry, and what we do as a whole, there is so much that we take for granted. In other words, the little things we get to make decisions on should mean the most, as many countries out there are not as fortunate. Just imagining and pondering the thought of not having the freedom of speech feels as though I am trapped in a cage and don't have a way to escape. Being American also means being free to respectfully disagree and have a say in what we know is best for ourselves. I'm sure many of us have heard of 'The American Dream,' one famous saying. I can trace this back to when I took writing with research as one of my dual-enrollment classes, during my junior year of high school. We were asked, "What is your definition of the American Dream?" Although I had to think hard for a moment, it was easy to formulate my response. Even then, my view has not changed whatsoever. Living the American Dream means being anything you want to be, setting your own goals, and living the life that you desire. Overall, being yout own life designer is something I am capable of as an American. Being that we live in the land of the free, there are numerous rights that we should all be thankful for. It's easy for me to understand the big picture behind national holidays, such as Memorial Day, Independence Day, and Veteran's Day. Special people went out of their ways, by selflessly serving our country and fighting tooth and nail for our freedom and independence. Not only that, but numerous people are currently serving our country for protection. Without them, we would not have the rights that we have today. Therefore, saying, "Thank you for your service," is a meaningful form of gratitude. Unequivocally, being an American is about having the life, liberty, and pursuit of happiness. I am not lucky to have the right to map out my life. Instead, I am blessed to choose the opportunities that await my reach and to allow my heart to be my compass. I would not trade the American life I have for anything else.

To me, influence means having the capacity to have an effect on an individuals development, character, or behavior. I influence people around me by giving advice, showing empathy, and having open-mindedness. I can trace back the time I overcame adversity to when I was nine years old. My parents and I found out that I did not pass the required standardized tests to move on to fourth grade. As a result, I ended up needing to repeat third grade. Knowing I had to move up without most of my peers was a hard pill to swallow. Nonetheless, I made sure to stay optimistic and tenacious. I worked even harder the second year of third grade and studied like crazy for the standardized tests coming my way. After tons of effort, occasional tears, and wonderful teachers and tutors, we got the news that I passed the required standardized tests and was promoted to fourth grade. Saying I was proud to have met that goal is an understatement. A beam of light came my way at the end of the tunnel. I am currently pursuing a major in psychology and a minor in anthropology. I chose anthropology as a minor, because I find it incredibly useful in so many aspects in life. As far as psychology, I find that there is so much I can relate to. The goal with that field is to become a Cognitive Behavioral Therapist for children and adolescents. Being an individual that has faced obstacles with mental health, I am passionate about having a turn to be an advocate. I, myself, have been a client in counseling therapy, which has inspired me to help others in the same boat. If I were to receive this scholarship, it will be a huge help for tuition, books and other expenses. Big or small, winning will guarantee that my education will be paid for even more. Thank you bold for giving me the chance to share a small portion of my story and for this wonderful scholarship opportunity.

This poem is a speech I gave as a tribute to my first cat Ringo, who we, unfortunately, had to put down in September of 2021. Although she is missed, she will always have a special place in our hearts. My sweet, beloved Ringo Star, my message is for you. Yes, this is my cat, whom my mom named after Ringo Star, a member of The Beatles band. She was my very first pet that lived a long, beautiful, happy seventeen years. She was just a newborn kitten, while I was a toddler. She was not just the best cat, but also the best companion anyone could ever ask for. I will never forget her gorgeous, fire-like, orange-red fur, and her charming, sunshine, yellow-green eyes. The name Ringo fit her well, as she had a white quote-unquote "ring," around her neck, And was a true shining star that could light up a room and your day in just a heartbeat. Although I am no Dr. Seuss, I will try to put my rhyming skills to use. She always knew when I got sick and would cuddle with me and give me a lick. She came to her favorite spot in the house, which was my bed, only to sleep right next to my head. Anytime a difficult day crashed me down, I knew she wanted me to smile instead of frown. Despite being a diabetic and things getting hard, she chose to be strong and resilient, rather than scarred. She was always there to make my heart smile and my overall life worthwhile. I am so thankful that God gave me this cat because if it was not for her, I probably would not be where I am currently at. Ringo, here's to you. I miss you and I love you. I know you are in the best place possible. It is until we meet again.

Financial management is vital, not only as a student but throughout life as a whole. However, acquiring proper habits with money early on can dictate how our future can look. Benjamin Franklin coined this famous phrase, "A Penny saved is a Penny earned." In other words, it is advisable to save money that you already have as it is to earn more. On an economic basis, the six main functions of money are durability, portability, divisibility, uniformity, acceptability, and limited supply. The bottom line is to save money. It may sound basic, but there is so much reasoning. When we save money, we are inching ourselves away from debt, which can be anxiety-inducing, especially in college. At the same time, it allows us to enjoy greater security in our lives. But why exactly should we save money? Because saving money helps navigate tricky situations, meet financial obligations, and ultimately build wealth. Emergency funds are the most crucial with budgeting, especially if you have no health insurance. Something unexpected is bound to happen and we never know. Therefore, setting money aside for those scenarios gives us the chance to be more readily prepared, and receive adequate intervention fast. We must give money the utmost trust. Even more so in emergencies that occur to ourselves or our loved ones. We live in a society where we have to be ready for anything. I have learned about credit card debt. If you think about it, paying with your credit card involves spending money that does not directly belong to you. Unfortunately, it is easy to wind up in credit card debt. This happens when you're spending more money than you can remotely pay back, or whenever you don't pay your bills on time. Having essential spending habits is a good preventative measure. This has taught me and will hopefully teach other people that there is a very distinctive difference between having a need and a want. Needs in life are things that are necessary for our health and safety. We "need" them to live and function. Wants in life are simply desired items unnecessary for our quality of life. They make little to no difference whatsoever. Sometimes, they are easier said than done. Focusing on what we need more so than what we want is vital. We must fulfill our basic biological needs, such as food, water, and shelter. Once again, "A Penny Saved is a Penny Earned."

Hi there. I'm Jordan Cruz, a first-generation college student studying Psychology and Anthropology at Stetson University. A social issue that I'm hugely passionate about and hoping to better address is the stigmatization of mental health. It's easy to say that I have learned from my own experience. My mental health journey started in 5th grade. It was at the time mental health was not being looked at as much as it is now, especially youth mental health. During that year, I suffered from intense anxiety almost daily. I was worried about things other children weren't, and people would think I was sad or depressed, no matter how hard I tried to conceal my true feelings. On the outside, I was happy-go-lucky. On the inside, I was fighting an internal battle that virtually nobody would've thought. Oftentimes, it was hard for me to demystify where the anxiety was stemming from. Eventually, there came a point when physical effects emerged, such as lethargy, fatigue, and nausea. Sudden and expected weight loss, as well as delayed growth, happened as a result, which had my parents worried because it became abundantly evident to them that I was struggling. 7th grade came and I went through a phase of potential depression, due to being bullied. I spent so much time bottling up my feelings, but I knew I had to speak up. It would only do more harm than good and was easier said than done. Although it took a lot of time and courage, I opened up to my parents about what I was going through. They were understanding, caring, and nurturing, and agreed to get me professional help. Since then, I have been attending monthly counseling sessions with an amazing, knowledgeable therapist with exceptional expertise. I'm happy to say that my anxiety has improved tremendously because of therapy. Despite occasional moments of stress, I have acquired healthier coping mechanisms, in times when I doubt myself and can't find an immediate answer. Nonetheless, I get right back up in the end. My journey has led me to my career aspiration, which is a Cognitive Behavioral Therapist for children and adolescents. I hope to have a turn in advocating for those in need and helping them feel not alone. Even though mental health is getting more deserved attention, it is still a subject that needs to be destigmatized. Many schools allow students to learn how to administer CPR in special classes. What if schools provided training on how to help someone having a mental health crisis, whether it's a loved one or even a stranger? Many people get a yearly physical at the doctor. What if therapists did yearly mental health evaluations for everyone? I want to teach people that while not everyone has a diagnosed mental illness, absolutely everyone has a brain that needs to be cared for every day. It is more than our head and neck having a connection. The state of our mental health can influence our physical health and vice versa. Another major lesson I have learned and want to remind people is that it is okay to not be okay. The truth is, a mental problem can be equated to having a cold. It is never your fault. It's out of your control and you can't help it. The bottom line is nobody is immune. Anxiety, depression, schizophrenia and all mental disorders do not care how blissful your life is. My biggest hope is that people become more comfortable with having feelings and seeking intervention. Ultimately, my goal is to help break the stigma and fill the gap.

Writing is important to me because it gives me the chance to express my thoughts from pen to paper. I'm a deep and independent thinker, so taking a moment to be still and write in my diary allows me to process what's in my mind. As a child, I truly enjoyed writing out my thoughts and feelings. That passion has not changed for me whatsoever. Furthermore, writing helps me come up with the right words for myself, especially in times when I have doubts and can't find an immediate answer. Not only do I find writing important, but also therapeutic. Because of it, I have learned major lessons in life. I think back and can take away so much from what I endured. It also helps me become more knowledgeable about lessons I will eventually have to learn. Journaling can serve as a future reference because there are times when I may need to stop, think, reevaluate myself, and read what I have written. I find it motivating in the darkest of times when reminders will be needed the most. Instead of getting down on myself, I do my best to allow the words I have written to sink into my mind and feel the meaningfulness. Writing also enables me to see the bigger picture of things. As previously said, it's morally about allowing the words to sink in. The first step to understanding the bigger picture of something is to give yourself time to process what you have read. After you process everything you read, the next step is to analyze the meaning of what was written and why it was put together in the first place. Think of it as taking away the author's purpose of writing a story, article, or even an essay. There have been countless times when I saw the big picture after reading something and writing for myself. Finding purpose and meaning truly goes a long way. Last but not least, writing reminds me that there is evidence of so much I have overcome in life. It shows me that the lessons I have learned in the past will give me hope for the future, as it unfolds. I also want to remind people of the same thing. Everyone deserves to remember what they have endured. The key is no matter your past, you can conquer virtually anything that you put your mind to.

Hi there. I'm Jordan Cruz, a first-generation college student studying Psychology and Anthropology at Stetson University. A social issue that I'm hugely passionate about and hoping to better address is the stigmatization of mental health. It's easy to say that I have learned from my own experience. My mental health journey started in 5th grade. It was at the time mental health was not being looked at as much as it is now, especially youth mental health. During that year, I suffered from intense anxiety almost daily. I was worried about things other children weren't, and people would think I was sad or depressed, no matter how hard I tried to conceal my true feelings. On the outside, I was happy-go-lucky. On the inside, I was fighting an internal battle that virtually nobody would've thought. Oftentimes, it was hard for me to demystify where the anxiety was stemming from. Eventually, there came a point when physical effects emerged, such as lethargy, fatigue, and nausea. Sudden and expected weight loss, as well as delayed growth, happened as a result, which had my parents worried because it became abundantly evident to them that I was struggling. 7th grade came and I went through a phase of potential depression, due to being bullied. I spent so much time bottling up my feelings, but I knew I had to speak up. It would only do more harm than good and was easier said than done. Although it took a lot of time and courage, I opened up to my parents about what I was going through. They were understanding, caring, and nurturing, and agreed to get me professional help. Since then, I have been attending monthly counseling sessions with an amazing, knowledgeable therapist with exceptional expertise. I'm happy to say that my anxiety has improved tremendously because of therapy. Despite occasional moments of stress, I have acquired healthier coping mechanisms, in times when I doubt myself and can't find an immediate answer. Nonetheless, I get right back up in the end. My journey has led me to my career aspiration, which is a Cognitive Behavioral Therapist for children and adolescents. I hope to have a turn in advocating for those in need and helping them feel not alone. Even though mental health is getting more deserved attention, it is still a subject that needs to be destigmatized. Many schools allow students to learn how to administer CPR in special classes. What if schools provided training on how to help someone having a mental health crisis, whether it's a loved one or even a stranger? Many people get a yearly physical at the doctor. What if therapists did yearly mental health evaluations for everyone? I want to teach people that while not everyone has a diagnosed mental illness, absolutely everyone has a brain that needs to be cared for every day. It is more than our head and neck having a connection. The state of our mental health can influence our physical health and vice versa. Another major lesson I have learned and want to remind people is that it is okay to not be okay. The truth is, a mental problem can be equated to having a cold. It is never your fault. It's out of your control and you can't help it. The bottom line is nobody is immune. Anxiety, depression, schizophrenia and all mental disorders do not care how blissful your life is. My biggest hope is that people become more comfortable with having feelings and seeking intervention. Ultimately, my goal is to help break the stigma and fill the gap.

Hi there. I'm Jordan Cruz, a first-generation college student studying Psychology and Anthropology at Stetson University. A social issue that I'm hugely passionate about and hoping to better address is the stigmatization of mental health. It's easy to say that I have learned from my own experience. My mental health journey started in 5th grade. It was at the time mental health was not being looked at as much as it is now, especially youth mental health. During that year, I suffered from intense anxiety almost daily. I was worried about things other children weren't, and people would think I was sad or depressed, no matter how hard I tried to conceal my true feelings. On the outside, I was happy-go-lucky. On the inside, I was fighting an internal battle that virtually nobody would've thought. Oftentimes, it was hard for me to demystify where the anxiety was stemming from. Eventually, there came a point when physical effects emerged, such as lethargy, fatigue, and nausea. Sudden and expected weight loss, as well as delayed growth, happened as a result, which had my parents worried because it became abundantly evident to them that I was struggling. 7th grade came and I went through a phase of potential depression, due to being bullied. I spent so much time bottling up my feelings, but I knew I had to speak up. It would only do more harm than good and was easier said than done. Although it took a lot of time and courage, I opened up to my parents about what I was going through. They were understanding, caring, and nurturing, and agreed to get me professional help. Since then, I have been attending monthly counseling sessions with an amazing, knowledgeable therapist with exceptional expertise. I'm happy to say that my anxiety has improved tremendously because of therapy. Despite occasional moments of stress, I have acquired healthier coping mechanisms, in times when I doubt myself and can't find an immediate answer. Nonetheless, I get right back up in the end. My journey has led me to my career aspiration, which is a Cognitive Behavioral Therapist for children and adolescents. I hope to have a turn in advocating for those in need and helping them feel not alone. Even though mental health is getting more deserved attention, it is still a subject that needs to be destigmatized. Many schools allow students to learn how to administer CPR in special classes. What if schools provided training on how to help someone having a mental health crisis, whether it's a loved one or even a stranger? Many people get a yearly physical at the doctor. What if therapists did yearly mental health evaluations for everyone? I want to teach people that while not everyone has a diagnosed mental illness, absolutely everyone has a brain that needs to be cared for every day. It is more than our head and neck having a connection. The state of our mental health can influence our physical health and vice versa. Another major lesson I have learned and want to remind people is that it is okay to not be okay. The truth is, a mental problem can be equated to having a cold. It is never your fault. It's out of your control and you can't help it. The bottom line is nobody is immune. Anxiety, depression, schizophrenia and all mental disorders do not care how blissful your life is. My biggest hope is that people become more comfortable with having feelings and seeking intervention. Ultimately, my goal is to help break the stigma and fill the gap.

Hi there. I'm Jordan Cruz, a first-generation college student studying Psychology and Anthropology at Stetson University. A social issue that I'm hugely passionate about and hoping to better address is the stigmatization of mental health. It's easy to say that I have learned from my own experience. My mental health journey started in 5th grade. It was at the time mental health was not being looked at as much as it is now, especially youth mental health. During that year, I suffered from intense anxiety almost daily. I was worried about things other children weren't, and people would think I was sad or depressed, no matter how hard I tried to conceal my true feelings. On the outside, I was happy-go-lucky. On the inside, I was fighting an internal battle that virtually nobody would've thought. Oftentimes, it was hard for me to demystify where the anxiety was stemming from. Eventually, there came a point when physical effects emerged, such as lethargy, fatigue, and nausea. Sudden and expected weight loss, as well as delayed growth, happened as a result, which had my parents worried because it became abundantly evident to them that I was struggling. 7th grade came and I went through a phase of potential depression, due to being bullied. I spent so much time bottling up my feelings, but I knew I had to speak up. It would only do more harm than good and was easier said than done. Although it took a lot of time and courage, I opened up to my parents about what I was going through. They were understanding, caring, and nurturing, and agreed to get me professional help. Since then, I have been attending monthly counseling sessions with an amazing, knowledgeable therapist with exceptional expertise. I'm happy to say that my anxiety has improved tremendously because of therapy. Despite occasional moments of stress, I have acquired healthier coping mechanisms, in times when I doubt myself and can't find an immediate answer. Nonetheless, I get right back up in the end. My journey has led me to my career aspiration, which is a Cognitive Behavioral Therapist for children and adolescents. I hope to have a turn in advocating for those in need and helping them feel not alone. Even though mental health is getting more deserved attention, it is still a subject that needs to be destigmatized. Many schools allow students to learn how to administer CPR in special classes. What if schools provided training on how to help someone having a mental health crisis, whether it's a loved one or even a stranger? Many people get a yearly physical at the doctor. What if therapists did yearly mental health evaluations for everyone? I want to teach people that while not everyone has a diagnosed mental illness, absolutely everyone has a brain that needs to be cared for every day. It is more than our head and neck having a connection. The state of our mental health can influence our physical health and vice versa. Another major lesson I have learned and want to remind people is that it is okay to not be okay. The truth is, a mental problem can be equated to having a cold. It is never your fault. It's out of your control and you can't help it. The bottom line is nobody is immune. Anxiety, depression, schizophrenia and all mental disorders do not care how blissful your life is. My biggest hope is that people become more comfortable with having feelings and seeking intervention. Ultimately, my goal is to help break the stigma and fill the gap.

At the time I was nine, my parents and I learned that I needed to repeat third grade. That was because I did not pass the standardized tests to be promoted to fourth grade. That was one of the hardest pills for us to swallow. Knowing that I would stand behind my peers for the rest of my time in school was difficult for me to process. It was hard for me to hear and I remember having trouble envisioning what the future was going to hold. The first year of third grade was a struggle for me. Nonetheless, that did not hinder me from meeting my educational goals. We got the news toward the end of the school year that I passed the required standardized tests and was eligible to move on to fourth grade. My mom dedicated so much of her time to staying home, so we had one-on-one time for my homework, reading, and projects. There were moments of stress, frustration and tears. However, we made sure to revert to positive and productive thinking. Although that meant becoming a stay-home mom, the sacrifice was well worth it, and I'm incredibly thankful for it. Looking back, I have realized that my mom staying home and acting as a mentor to me, instead of working full-time was a selfless act that she committed. I went through afterschool tutoring that occurred a couple of days a week for an hour, to help me increase my skills in some subjects. Saying I was proud is an understatement because I worked super hard to meet such a big goal. After lots of hard work, studying, sweat, and tears, I saw a beam of light welcome me at the end of the tunnel. Repeating third grade was genuinely a gift to my education. Thanks to an amazing teacher I had both those years, as well as wonderful tutors, mentors, and coaches, I have learned numerous lessons that I will continue to convey for the rest of my life. Unequivocally, having an incredible support network, including my friends and family who believed in me along the way I could not imagine being traded or replaced. One of the biggest things I have taken away is that there are moments where aspects are bound to get worse before they get better. Think of the fact that sometimes a forest must suffer a wildfire before its health is replenished. Despite it being challenging to fall behind, I made sure to stay optimistic and keep my head up. Furthermore, I have always firmly believed that everything happens for a reason. There were indeed reasons for not moving to fourth grade immediately. This reminds me that sometimes life forces us to choose our hard. Even though it was hard to stay back, moving on before I was remotely ready and feeling inadequate would have been more troublesome. That means there are pros and cons to each choice, but we must make the decision where the pros outweigh the cons. This is especially true for this case. This year, I graduated high school with an Associate of Arts degree from Daytona State. I am currently pursuing a major in Psychology and a minor in Anthropology at Stetson University. I feel determined to keep reaching my goals and I am looking forward to watching my future unfold through my eyes. Thank you bold for allowing me to share my story. I hope it touches those reading behind the screen, teaches someone something, and helps you remember your worth.

In the past, I faced obstacles with my mental health. My journey began when I was eleven years old and in 5th grade. During that time, I suffered from almighty high anxiety almost every day. I was worried about things children my age were not and it was difficult for me to demystify where the anxiety was stemming from. It resulted in low self-esteem and a loss of interest in activities I previously enjoyed. I experienced waves of fear that lead to meltdowns for hours, whenever I was home and felt safe. Eventually, it got to the point where physical effects emerged. This included nausea, fatigue, and lethargy. Because of it, I lost a lot of weight and wasn't growing, which made it abundantly clear to my parents that I was struggling. When I started middle school, my anxiety improved. However, I was bullied in 7th grade, which took a toll on my mental health. This time, I was going through possible depression, because I cried nearly every day and was rarely happy. Although it may have taken courage, I opened up to my parents about what I was going through. They were caring, understanding, and supportive, and agreed to get me professional help. That was the first step I took to get therapy. Meanwhile, I acquired healthier coping mechanisms for episodes of anxiety and gloom. Therapy has helped my mental health improve tremendously, thus resulting in more confidence and independence. One of the biggest things I have taken away is mental health is a subject that needs to be destigmatized. Sadly, it doesn't receive the respect and awareness that it deserves. Having a mental illness is equivalent to having a cold. The truth is, you can't help it. None of us are immune. Furthermore, another major lesson I have learned is that mental illness does not make you weak. One day, I came across this motivational quote, "One small crack does not mean you are broken. It means you were put to the test and you didn't fall apart." This is especially true for me because I have become a much stronger person in the end. My career goal is to become a Cognitive Behavioral Therapist for children. Now, I am attending Stetson University, and pursuing a bachelor's degree in Psychology, along with a minor in Anthropology. My hope with my career is to destigmatize mental health and have a turn in advocating for those in need, especially people who went through similar circumstances. I feel inspired to give them another chance and create inclusion through my story. I am proud of what I faced because I have learned many major lessons. Thank you bold for giving me the chance to write this essay. I hope that my testimony touches those reading it, and helps you remember your worth.

As said by Linda Poindexter, "One small crack does not mean you are broken; it means that you were put to the test and you didn't fall apart." First of all, great quote. Indeed, I was put to the test by the mental health challenges I faced in the past. Nonetheless, that does not mean I was turned into broken and shattered glass. What you will read are the hardships I encountered that molded me into the individual I am today. During 5th grade, I experienced intense, almighty anxiety nearly every day. Looking back, I was worried about many things other students weren't. That made it difficult for me to demystify where the anxiety was stemming from. Oftentimes, I felt what I describe as a ticking bomb preparing for the mental explosion, which led to a meltdown when I was home and felt safe. Eventually, physical effects emerged including nausea, lethargy, and weight loss. It became abundantly evident to my parents that I was struggling. Fast forward to 7th grade. After I thought there was an improvement, my mental health took a turn for the worst once again. This time, I had potential depression, due to being inevitably bullied by some of my peers. Unequivocally, it made me feel inferior, vulnerable and delegitimized. I spent so much time bottling up my feelings. I knew it was time to speak up because I was getting close to my breaking point. Although it may have taken courage, I opened up to my parents about what I was going through. They were caring, understanding, and supportive, and agreed to get me professional help. That was the first step I took to get therapy. Meanwhile, I acquired healthier coping mechanisms for episodes of anxiety and gloom. Therapy has helped my mental health improve tremendously, thus resulting in more confidence and independence. My career goal is to become a Cognitive Behavioral Therapist for children. This year, I graduated high school with my Associate of Arts degree from Daytona State College. Taking on dual enrollment during high school is a step that I have taken. This was where I took college classes while in high school. I started dual enrollment during my sophomore year and got to graduate with my AA degree. Even though it was a lot of work at times, I made sure to push myself, stay focused, and keep fighting for what I wanted. Having the effort, stamina, and tenacity truly helped me reach that goal. Now, I am attending Stetson University, and pursuing a bachelor's degree in Psychology, along with a minor in Anthropology. My hope with my career is to destigmatize mental health and have a turn in advocating for those in need, especially people who went through similar circumstances. I feel inspired to give them another chance and create inclusion through my story. I am proud of what I faced because I have become a much stronger person and learned major lessons. Thank you bold for giving me the chance to write this essay. I hope that my testimony touches those reading it, and helps you remember your worth.

To me, perseverance is persistence in reaching your full potential, despite the obstacles that may impede your success. It is about maintaining wholesome effort, tenacity, stamina, and dedication, regardless of the circumstances. Staying optimistic is another attribute that falls under the umbrella. Every one of us has fought battles in our lives. I have evidence of hard times that required me to wear personal armor to fight tooth and nail and gain strength. Here are just several. At the time I was nine, my parents and I learned that I needed to repeat third grade. That was because I did not pass the standardized tests to be promoted to fourth grade. That was one of the hardest pills for us to swallow. Nonetheless, that did not hinder me from meeting my educational goals. Toward the end of the school year, we got the news that I passed the required standardized tests and was eligible to move on to fourth grade. My mom dedicated so much of her time to staying home, so we had one-on-one time for my homework, reading, and projects. There were moments of stress, frustration and tears. However, we made sure to revert to positive and productive thinking. Although that meant becoming a stay-home mom, the sacrifice was well worth it, and I'm incredibly thankful for it. Saying I was proud is an understatement because I worked super hard to meet such a big goal. I saw a beam of light welcome me at the end of the tunnel. When I was eleven going on twelve, my parents got divorced. It was a difficult time for me, but I knew God had a plan and reason. I made sure to maintain a positive attitude, keep a smile on my face, and be successful, which helped the sorrow to melt away. I made sure to remind myself that I am loved by both of them and determined to make them proud. 7th grade came and I discovered that the majority of the people in my dance class were bullying me. It took a toll on my mental health because I felt inferior to everyone around me. Dance was not the easiest skill for me, considering my coordination and physical flexibility aren't the strongest. That inevitably led to being bullied and victimized. Although it hurt me, I made sure to try my hardest and my dance teacher praised me for it. I even earned two awards for hard work and being the best listener, which was undoubtedly meaningful. It was clear that she noticed how much I pushed myself. The hardships I endured have molded me into the person I am today. Life can be seen as a yin-yang. In other words, there's darkness in light and light in the darkness. Having resilience has overpowered the face of adversity and made me a stronger individual. I have also enriched my faith and relationship with God, which has helped me navigate the now that I live in and my eventual future. Through the good, the bad, and the ugly, there is so much I am grateful for. With moments that are hard to demystify, I am reminded by God to be still and have patience. My perspectives have hugely changed as a result of what I faced. It is now my turn to advocate for those going through similar obstacles. Always remember that you are capable of conquering virtually anything that you put your mind to. Smile, give advice, work hard, know your worth, and never give up.

Hi there! My name is Jordan. I am a first-generation college student at Stetson University, currently standing as a junior and psychology major. For several years, I have had my heart set on psychology. I am pursuing that degree, not only because I find it intriguing. My main reason is that I genuinely have a deep passion for that field. My ultimate goal is to become a Cognitive Behavioral Therapist, specifically for children. Mental health is a subject that is hugely meaningful and close to my heart. Many people, with the inclusion of myself, face obstacles with their mental health or have a history of difficulties. During 5th grade, I suffered from overwhelmingly high anxiety that occurred almost every day. It was a security blanket that I wore and somehow could not remove from my body. Needless to say, it hit me like a ton of bricks. Eventually, it led to physical effects. Oftentimes, I felt sick, lethargic, and hardly ever hungry. As a result, I lost a ton of weight and wasn't growing, which made it abundantly clear to my parents that I was struggling. 7th grade came and I was being bullied. This time, I went through a phase of potential depression, because I felt as though darkness went underneath my skin and caused my happiness to vanish. During those hard times, I felt like a burden on my friends, teachers, and even my own family. Looking back, I had a very artificial relationship with myself, due to the anguish, apprehension, pessimism, and sadness that filled my bottle. Continuing to try to keep my feelings to myself was easier said than done. Although it may have taken courage, I opened up to my parents about what I was going through. They were empathetic, understanding, and caring, and agreed that professional help was right for me. From there, I started attending monthly therapy sessions, which helped my mental health improve tremendously. Saying that I have learned so much through what I endured is an understatement. I have been molded into the individual I am today because of what I encountered. The biggest takeaway I have received is that mental health needs to be destigmatized. Unfortunately, it doesn't get the respect and awareness that it deserves. The truth is, having a mental health problem is equivalent to having a cold, and you can't help it. Mental health issues do not care about the good in your life. In other words, nobody is immune. I hope to have a turn to advocate for those in need. I want to help them remember that they are never alone in whatever circumstances they're facing. My experience will enable me to put myself in their shoes and say that I can relate. The hardships I went through have made me a stronger person and will help me continue to develop my expertise in my future career. I feel inspired to keep the conversation going because my story does not end there. My friendly reminder to you all is that you are capable of virtually anything you put your mind to. You are so much stronger than you think, regardless of where you are with your mental health. Last but not least, always remember that it is okay to not be okay. Thank you bold for giving me the chance to share my story and aspiration. I hope that my testimony touches whoever is reading it behind the screen and helps you know your worth.

Hi, my name is Jordan. I am a first-generation college student. I currently stand as a junior at Stetson University and my major is Psychology. Before I begin, I want to say thank you Bold for allowing me to share my journey. I hope that my testimony touches those reading it from the screen and helps you to remember your worth. Let's get real now. In 5th grade, I suffered deep, almighty anxiety. My description of the anxiety was a ticking bomb counting down the number of seconds until it was time for darkness to fill me up from head to toe. It became a security blanket that I constantly wore and could not remove from my body. Nearly all the time, I went everywhere wearing a smile on my face as if it were makeup. On the outside, I was a cheerful, lively and happy-go-lucky girl. However, I was fighting an internal battle deep down inside. When I was alone and felt safe, I had meltdowns involving harsh words towards myself and hours of tears. As a result, I redeveloped social anxiety, became reserved, introverted and often felt like isolating myself from those around me. The anxiety eventually led to physical effects. It got to the point where I felt sick, lethargic, and hardly ever hungry. As a result, I lost a lot of weight and wasn't growing, which had my parents worried about me. It became abundantly clear to them that I was struggling. 7th grade came and I encountered a phase of possible depression, due to bullying. It caused me to have resentment and trust issues with others, even my loved ones. During those years, I had a bottle filled with anguish, apprehension, pessimism, and melancholy. After lots of time, I gathered the courage to share my feelings with my parents. They were empathetic, understanding, and supportive, and agreed to get me professional help. The bottle of negativity was being poured out, which gave me so much peace. Unequivocally, my relationship with myself at the time was very artificial, so I knew it was time to do something different. Meanwhile, I started attending monthly sessions with an amazingly kind, knowledgeable counselor with exceptional expertise. Going to therapy helped me acquire effective coping mechanisms for moments of anxiousness or gloom. Thus, it resulted in more confidence, independence, resilience, and stamina. I am proud to say that my mental health has improved tremendously. Going to therapy was one of the most worthwhile decisions I have ever made. Although I still fall, I always find a way to get back up and revert to positive, productive thinking. Saying that there is so much I have learned through what I faced is an understatement. One of the biggest things I have taken away is mental health is a subject that needs to be destigmatized. Sadly, it doesn't receive the respect and awareness that it deserves. Having a mental illness is equivalent to having a cold. The truth is, you can't help it. None of us are immune. Furthermore, another major lesson I have learned is that mental illness does not make you weak. One day, I came across this motivational quote, "One small crack does not mean you are broken. It means you were put to the test and you didn't fall apart." This is especially true for me because I have become a much stronger person in the end. My friendly reminder is no matter what you face, you are capable of conquering virtually anything you put your mind to, and it is okay to not be okay.

If I had to think of the person that has given me the most support throughout my education, it would be my mother. From beginning to end, she has always been my backbone, doing so much for me, and I can't thank her enough for it. I struggled in third grade and unfortunately ended up getting held back, especially after not passing the required standardized tests to move on to fourth grade right away. It was scary and hard for both of us to process. I couldn't immediately envision how my future was going to unfold, but I made sure to stay hopeful. During the second year, my mom dedicated so much of her time to sitting with me during homework assignments, reading, and major projects. Even though that meant becoming a stay-home mom, the sacrifice she made for me was well worth it, and will never be taken for granted. Unequivocally, it was an act of selflessness that was beneficial for my education. We have laughed together, cried together, and struggled together to get me to where I am today. However, all the little things, including the one-on-one time, made for a huge gift to my education. When things did get difficult, she always reminded me to do my best, never give up, keep a smile on my face, and have an optimistic attitude, especially during the time I had to repeat third grade. She sat down with me almost every single day to help me with the homework that was given. Let's face it. There were moments when things got hard and frustration overcame us. Nonetheless, we made sure to revert to positive and productive thinking and maintain perseverance. At the end of the school year, my teacher gave us the news that I passed the required tests and was promoted to fourth grade. Saying we were thrilled to learn that I was moving up is an understatement. We were overjoyed and over-the-moon excited, knowing that a tough year, tough decision, and tough time gave us light at the end of the tunnel. When my mom announced the news on her Facebook, she wrote at the end of her post, "Feeling like a proud, accomplished, "I must be doing something right", mommy." She was right and deserved to feel that pride. I too was also proud to have reached such a major goal, which taught me that sometimes things are bound to get worse before they get better. Yes, my father is in my life and has done an amazing job at raising me as well. However, this all goes to my mom. She has taught me so much about tenacity, positivity, strong-willingness, and the list goes on. I am molded into the individual I am because of her. Without her, I would not be who I am or where I am today. Therefore, I am thankful for everything she has done for me. I plan to give back to my community by becoming a Cognitive Behavioral Therapist for children and letting them know that they are never alone in whatever circumstances. There is a chance that I will encounter people who are held back in a grade level or have been held back, and possibly have lived in a single parent household like me. Providing support and sharing my story will hopefully help them feel included and be reminded that no matter what, you can conquer virtually anything you set your mind to. Thank you bold for giving me the chance to write about a major part of my life and share my story.

When I was in 5th grade, I suffered deep, almighty anxiety. My description of the anxiety was a ticking bomb counting down the number of seconds until it was time for darkness to fill me up from head to toe. It became a security blanket that I constantly wore and could not remove from my body. Nearly all the time, I went virtually everywhere wearing a smile on my face as if it were makeup. On the outside, I was a cheerful, lively and happy-go-lucky girl. However, I was fighting an internal battle deep down inside. When I was alone, I had meltdowns where all I could do was cry and end up in puddles of sadness. As a result, I redeveloped social anxiety, became shy, reserved, introverted, and often felt like isolating myself from those around me. The anxiety also led to physical effects. It eventually got to the point to where I felt sick, lethargic, and hardly ever hungry. As a result, I lost a lot of weight and wasn't growing, which had my parents worried about me. It became abundantly clear to them that I was struggling. 7th grade came and I encountered a phase of possible depression, due to bullying. It caused me to have resentment and trust issues with others, even those that I loved and are close to me. During those years, I had a bottle that filled with anguish, apprehension, pessimism, and melancholy. After lots of time, I gathered the courage to share my feelings with my parents. They were empathetic, understanding, supportive, and agreed to get me professional help. The bottle of negativity was being poured out, which gave me so much peace. Unequivocally, my relationship with myself at the time was very artificial, so I knew it was time to do something different. Meanwhile, I started attending monthly sessions with an amazingly kind, knowledgeable counselor with exceptional expertise. Going to therapy helped me acquire effective coping mechanisms for moments of anxiousness or gloom. Thus, it resulted in more confidence, independence, resilience, and stamina. Ever since then, my anxiety has improved tremendously. Although I still have moments of tears, anxiety, and getting hard on myself, I turn it around and revert to positive, productive thinking. During those times, I could not pinpoint the reasoning behind my feelings, considering what I'm thankful for. I have a roof over my head, wonderful parents, an awesome family, a great circle of friends, and so much more. I saw myself as someone who was weak, broken, and shattered. Nonetheless, there is so much I have learned through the obstacles. My perspectives on myself and life as a whole hugely changed. Because of it, I have became a stronger individual. One of the biggest things I've realized is that none of us are immune. Depression and anxiety do not care about how blissful life is. Life is not a picture-perfect fairytale. It's a yin-yang with light in darkness and darkness in light. There's the good in the bad and the bad in the good. Furthermore, another major takeaway I have received is that mental health is something that needs to be destigmatized. We must be more aware and respectful on this concept. My ultimate goal is to become a Cognitive Behavioral Therapist for children and have a turn to advocate for those in need. I hope that my story touches those who hear it and helps you to know that you are never alone. You are so much greater than your mental health struggles. Thank you bold for giving me the allowance to share my testimony.

If I had to think of the person that has given me the most support throughout my education, it would be my mother. From beginning to end, she has always been by my side, doing so much for me, and I can't thank her enough for it. I struggled in third grade and unfortunately ended up getting held back, especially after not passing the required standardized tests to move on to fourth grade right away. It was scary and hard for both of us to process. I couldn't immediately envision how my future was going to unfold, but I made sure to stay hopeful. During the second year, my mom dedicated so much of her time to sitting with me during homework assignments, reading, and major projects. Even though that meant becoming a stay-home mom, the sacrifice she made for me was well worth it, and will never be taken for granted. We have laughed together, cried together, and struggled together to get me to where I am today. However, all the little things, including the one-on-one time, made for a huge gift to my education. When things did get difficult, she always reminded me to do my best, never give up, keep a smile on my face, and have an optimistic attitude, especially during the time I had to repeat third grade. She sat down with me almost every single day to help me with the homework that was given. Let's face it. There were moments when things got hard and frustration overcame us. Nonetheless, we made sure to revert to positive and productive thinking and maintain perseverance. At the end of the school year, my teacher gave us the news that I passed the required tests and was promoted to fourth grade. Saying we were thrilled to learn that I was moving up is an understatement. We were overjoyed and over-the-moon excited, knowing that a tough year, tough decision, and tough time gave us light at the end of the tunnel. When my mom announced the news on her Facebook, she wrote at the end of her post, "Feeling like a proud, accomplished, "I must be doing something right", mommy." She was right and deserved to feel that pride. I too was also proud to have reached such a major goal, which taught me that sometimes things are bound to get worse before they get better. Yes, my father is in my life and has done an amazing job at raising me as well. However, this all goes to my mom. She has taught me so much about tenacity, positivity, strong-willingness, and the list goes on. I am molded into the individual I am because of her. Without her, I would not be who I am or where I am today. Therefore, I am thankful for everything she has done for me. Thank you bold for giving me the chance to rave about her and share my story. I hope that my testimony touches those reading from the screen. To anyone who has lost a parent in any way, my heart goes out to you. Keep in mind that regardless of the circumstances and obstacles you face, you are capable of conquering virtually anything you set your mind to.

If I had to think of the song that has the most important value, it would be Life of The Party by Shawn Mendes. I specifically chose this song, because it lifted my spirits during the COVID-19 pandemic, while also teaching me how to embrace my imperfections. During that time, I learned the song on the keyboard, which brought so much joy to me during the unprecedented period. There is so much I have taken away from the song. One of the major lessons I learned is that nobody's perfect. Therefore, we should never let our mistakes dictate who we are nor stop us from achieving our dreams. Another thing I was taught is that no matter what, there is always light at the end of the tunnel. The start of the pandemic is a prime example. In addition, my great-grandmother developed dementia and started declining. Although navigating those hardships caused worry, listening to that song turned the pessimism into optimism. Because of it, I've become a much more positive individual. At my last chorus concert, I made the decision to bare my soul to my peers and audience. I played the song on the piano and sang it at the same time. Saying I was nervous, knowing there were 200-300 eyes on me is an understatement. However, I started to breathe, become more confident, and conquered the performance. I'm so grateful that I got to know this song. My reminder to you all is that you can do anything you put your mind to. Through strength, optimism, effort, and perseverance, virtually anything is possible. I hope that my story touches those who are currently reading it and helps you all to know your worth. Thank you bold for giving me the chance to express this meaningfulness to my heart!

"One small crack does not mean you are broken, it means you were put to the test and you didn't fall apart." -Linda Poindexter First of all, great quote. It truly takes the words out of my mouth. There is pure evidence that I was indeed put to the test in my life. Nonetheless, that does not mean I am labeled as glass broken and shattered into itty-bitty pieces. Let's get real. I have faced obstacles with my mental health in the past. During 5th grade, I experienced heavy and intense waves of anxiety on an almost daily basis. Most of the time, it was difficult for me to demystify where the anxiousness was directly stemming from. On the outside, I was happy-go-lucky. However, I fought an internal battle deep down inside that I would describe as a ticking bomb counting down the number of seconds until it was time for apprehension and pessimism to sink underneath my skin, and eventually swallow me whole. My anxiety hurt me not only mentally and emotionally, but also physically. It got to the point where I always felt sick, tired, and hardly ever hungry. As a result, I lost a lot of weight and wasn't growing. My parents noticed and were worried because it became abundantly clear to them that I was struggling. Fast forward to 7th grade. Almost immediately after the school year started, I was a target for bullying, which made me feel vulnerable and inferior. Unfortunately, my mental health had taken a turn for the worst once again. This time, I was going through a possible case of depression. There were days I felt afraid to go to school, due to having trust issues and the fear that people would pick on me. I cried almost every day, felt excluded, and became envious. It felt equivalent to 5th grade but worse. During those times, I had resentment towards myself and other people, even those that I've always had true compassion for. It made me feel like a burden on my friends, teachers, and even my own family. I was at my lowest when virtually nobody knew. My anxiety and sadness were nearly getting the best of me. Therefore, I knew continuing to bottle up my feelings was easier said than done. After a lot of time, I gathered the courage to open up to my parents about how I was genuinely feeling. Although it may have been nerve-wracking, I could tell they were understanding and supportive, and agreed to get me help. I knew trying to handle it all on my own was easier said than done. Meanwhile, I started attending monthly counseling therapy sessions. Since then, I have been speaking with an amazing, knowledgeable, helpful therapist with great expertise, especially in times when I doubt myself and don't always have the right answers. I am proud to say that therapy has helped me tremendously, and was one of the best decisions. Despite having occasions of falling, I manage to get back up, turn the moments around, and revert to more positive, productive thinking. I am much happier and have gained so much independence. Through the hardships I endured, there is so much that I have learned and can apply to life. My experience has taught me that mental health is something that needs to be destigmatized. In other words, it deserves much more awareness and respect. Many people tend to sweep mental health problems under the rug and normalize them, or simply make insensitive jokes about serious matters. The truth is, having a mental health struggle can be equated to having a cold and you can't help it. Struggling mentally never puts you at fault. Another thing I learned is that you never know what someone you come across is going through. Life is not going to be the moon, stars, and rainbows. Just because you see someone smiling, laughing, and having the best time does not mean that their life is picture-perfect. There is no such thing as a picture-perfect life anyways. None of us are immune. My mental health hardships have molded me into the individual I am today. I have become more empathetic, understanding, and open-minded towards others, especially those that admit their struggles just like me. Anytime I learn about a tough time someone faces, I take a moment to put myself in their shoes and help them remember that they are not alone. My career aspiration is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I hope to make sense of what's going on in other people's worlds and set a reminder to never be ashamed. I firmly believe that absolutely everything in life happens for a reason. Unequivocally, there are reasons for what I faced. I am thankful for the tough moments because they made me stronger than ever before and helped me take away so much that I could teach people. So many of my perspectives have greatly changed. It is now my turn to advocate for those in need by listening, providing advice, and giving others a chance. Through the good, the bad, and the ugly, keep in mind that you are much stronger than you think. Day in and day out, your feelings matter, and you matter. Thank you bold for allowing me to share my story. I hope that my testimony touches those reading it behind the screen and helps you all to remember your worth. You are beautiful, you are talented, you are influential, and you are loved.

"One small crack does not mean you are broken. It means that you were put to the test and you didn't fall apart." -Linda Poindexter Great quote. This is pure evidence that I was indeed put to the test by curveballs that came from so-called life. Let's face it. Life and the world has not always adjusted to my needs, goals, dreams, and desires. Nonetheless, that does not make me weak. Instead, I have become a much stronger and independent individual. Through the major lessons and learning experiences, I have gained new perspectives that enabled tremendous growth. Here is a small sequence of some hardships I encountered. One of the tough times I faced was getting held back in 3rd grade. At first, it was painful to process the fact that most of my peers at the time were moving up without me. I was sad learning it was really happening. However, I eventually realized it was a true gift to my education and success. It helped me thrive and accomplish so much. I made tons of new, amazing friends that never once looked down on me nor expressed judgment. Meanwhile, I started 5th grade and had strong waves of anxiety almost daily. Oftentimes, it was hard to demystify where the anxiousness was stemming from. It hit me not only mentally and emotionally, but also physically. It made me feel sick and tired on many days. Eventually, I lost a lot of weight and wasn't growing, which made it abundantly clear to my parents that I was struggling. Shortly after 7th grade started, I was being bullied. Even when I spoke up, the bullying never stopped. Without going into detail, I was put through a harsh situation at the end of the school year by two girls. It was bad enough that I almost got sick, and it resulted in the girls getting suspended. Needless to say, it was a traumatizing time for me. I cried almost each day and was hardly ever happy. I spent years trying to handle it on my own and quote unquote "fix myself." Although it may have taken time and courage, I finally expressed my feelings to my parents. My anxiety and sadness were nearly getting the best of me, so I knew it was time for me to say something. They already knew I was genuinely struggling, were empathetic, understanding, and agreed to get me some help. From there, I started attending monthly counseling sessions. Since then, I am pleased to say that my mental health has hugely improved, because of the advice, care, and expertise from my wonderful therapist. Through the obstacles, I have become more empathetic in my relationships with my family, friends, and other people around me. I find ways to relate, provide support, and put myself in other people's shoes, when they discuss difficult times they've encountered. Many have told me I'm open-minded, understanding, a great listener, and give awesome advice. Even if I disagree with someone, I do my best to see from different angles, stand in the shoes of both sides, and show respect, instead of stirring up a debate. My career goal is to become a Cognitive Behavioral Therapist and have a turn to advocate for those in need. I enjoy hearing out difficulties and providing tips on how to overcome them. If I were to win this scholarship, it will assist me so much throughout my journey in college. Thank you bold for giving me the opportunity to share what I've gone through. I hope my story touches those and helps you remember your worth!

Hi there, my name is Jordan Cruz. I am a first-generation college student majoring in psychology at Stetson University. I also come from a Hispanic family on my dad's side. My dad and most of my family were born and raised in Puerto Rico for some of their lives. They have always passed down stories and memories they made living in Puerto Rico, before moving to the United States. I, myself, have grown up around the Spanish language, traditions, food, and so much more. Speaking of food, one of my favorite Hispanic dishes is yellow rice and beans, that my dad and grandmother love to cook. I've always admired their cooking skills and decided to learn as well. The food is just one of the many things I will always appreciate with coming from a Hispanic family. On a worldly perspective, my Hispanic family background has encouraged me to always have open-mindedness and be kind to everyone I meet. Unfortunately, there is often racial prejudice among the Hispanic community. It's sad to think that those people are one of the groups most vulnerable and prone to discrimination. I have become more educated on racism and why people make negative connotations about someone they personally perceive as "different," rather than an understanding that everyone is different. In fact, I watched a video on the famous TV show What Would You Do, which involved a young, Hispanic girl and another woman. She was being criticized for speaking Spanish, which made many of the people in the restaurant feel infuriated. Needless to say, she was uncomfortable, as she was the victim. We live in a civilized society where we must look after one another, have mindfulness, and be careful of our words and actions. Nonetheless, I will continue to embrace myself and people around me. I have also been taught to never be ashamed and always be who I am. One of my family members on my moms side is very close-minded and racist, which is frustrating to witness. She has made fun of the fact that I come from a Hispanic family. However, that does not make me any less than an individual. Coming from a diverse family has enabled me to appreciate all the differences in the world. It has reminded me that we would live in such a boring world if everyone were the same. From this point forward, I will continue to thrive, maintain life-long happiness, and never let anyone drag me down. Thank you bold for giving me the chance to share about my background. I hope those reading from behind the screen are touched and remember your worth.

If I had to think of one of the things that has truly lead to personal growth for me over the past year, it would have to be the COVID-19 pandemic. That itself has taken a major toll on so much, which has made things excruciatingly difficult at times. However, it's important to stay keep our eyes on the bright side, despite the adversity. Saying that there is so much I've learned from the pandemic is an understatement. It has encouraged me to be more optimistic, motivated, courageous, and strong-willed. During the quarantine phase in 2020, I taught myself Life of The Party by Shawn Mendes on a keyboard my dad bought me for my 17th birthday. I chose that song because it helped lift up my spirits during the unprecedented time, while also teaching me how to embrace my imperfections. The moment I played the song without any mishaps, I saw a beam of light greeting me at the end of the tunnel. I had the dream of playing and singing the song as a soloist. I practiced constantly until I felt more confident and had no mishaps. I prepared myself for that dream to come true. Sure enough, it did. At my last chorus concert, I bared my soul for my peers and audience to see. Although I experienced a couple small mishaps and felt super nervous, I got through the performance and received endless praise. I was proud of myself for overcoming my fear. In the past, I was a shy girl that would hide behind their mom. I would also cover my ears and hide when it got too loud in a room. As you can see, I went from someone that would stand behind a crowd to someone courageous and strong-willed. This is a pure example of how the pandemic helped me to take steps out of my comfort zone and vanquish some fears I used to carry, one of which was stage fright. Having gratitude and thankfulness is something that has remained the same. The COVID-19 pandemic reminded me to never take anything in life for granted. The truth is, you never know what you have until it's gone. We must appreciate not only the big things, but also the small things. Even the simplest pleasures mean the most and should be embraced in our lives. If I had to point out the biggest takeaway I have learned throughout my journey of self-discovery, it would be that you can do virtually anything you put your mind to. Through God's strength, anything is possible. Doing my solo on stage and graduating high school with my associates degree are just a couple of many major goals that took strength and stamina. Unequivocally, I had to use all the effort to get me to where I currently am. Despite the hardships, I persevered and met my goals. Thank you bold for giving me the chance to share my testimony. I hope it touches those reading it from the screen. From now and forward, I will continue to work for my goals and watch my future unfold. I have learned to not fear.

First of all, thank you bold for giving me the opportunity to share my story, express my say, and educate others. For someone who has faced obstacles with their mental health, it is easy to give pure evidence that supports the importance. When I was in the 5th grade, I was facing immense anxiety that hit me like a ton of bricks on an almost daily basis. It affected me not only mentally and emotionally, but also physically. My anxiety eventually got to the point to where I was often feeling sick, tired, and hardly hungry. As a result, I lost a lot of weight and wasn't growing, which worried my parents and made it abundantly clear to them that I was struggling. At that time, I was wearing happiness like makeup. I wore my so-called personal happy face sticker to cover up the fact that my mind was constantly in the middle of a storm. In other words, I was happy-go-lucky on the outside. Deep down inside, I was fighting an internal battle virtually nobody knew of. This was something I hid from everyone around me. It made me feel like a burden on my friends, teachers, and even my own family. I realized that continuing to handle my anxiety on my own was easier said than done. Therefore, I finally gathered the courage to pour out my true feelings to my parents that I was bottling. Although it was nerve-wracking, I could sense that they were were sympathetic, understanding, and agreed to help me. In may have taken time, but I was able to start seeing a counselor in 7th grade. Since then, I have been attending monthly sessions with an amazing, knowledgeable, and open-minded therapist with effective coping tips and expertise. Yes, there are moments where I may fall, but in the end, I get right back up. I'm proud to say that my mental health has improved tremendously. However, that does not negate the fact that I should no longer focus on wellness. Mental health is vital, because it dictates your daily performance. It's a subject that needs to be destigmatized, because many people out there discriminate and undermine its importance. The truth is, a mental health issue is equivalent to catching a cold. Therefore, it's out of your control and you can't help it. Our brain is a fragile organ in the body that we must take care of every day of our lives to ensure wellness. Speaking of maintaining wellness, I practice self-care by attending my monthly counseling appointments. If there comes a point where I'm having a difficult time long before a session, I reach out to my therapist for advice. Aside from going to therapy, I pray, sing, meditate, listen to music, play the piano, go on the hammock, engage with friends, and more. I do absolutely anything that lifts up my spirits and brings joy to me. Regardless of your mental status, I find it hugely beneficial to take on those mechanisms. If it wasn't for the hardships I faced, I would not be as knowledgeable, nor have been able to write this essay. Saying that I have learned so much through what I encountered is an understatement. It is an honor to be given a turn to advocate to those that are struggling. We are strong people in the now we are currently living in. We are capable of conquering virtually anything we put our minds to. Nothing is impossible, as long as we remember our worth. The happier you are, the more you will thrive.

Hi there! My name is Jordan Cruz and I come from a Puerto-Rican family on my father's side. For the past several years, I have gained an interest in pursuing a major in psychology and becoming a Cognitive Behavioral Therapist. On a personal basis, I must admit that I have faced obstacles with my mental health in the past. When 5th grade came, I had experienced intense anxiety almost daily. On the outside, I was happy-go-lucky. On the inside, I was fighting an internal battle with myself. I often hid what I was feeling from my friends, teachers, and even my own family. It made me feel like a burden on everyone around me and because of it, I could not see myself as someone strong and independent. Instead, I saw myself being broken and shattered by the waves of fear. Fast forward to 7th grade. It was a repeat of 5th grade, but even worse. I was a target for bullying, and ended up encountering an unpleasant situation with two girls that nearly got me sick, which resulted in suspension for the rest of the school year. Although I was always prospering academically, that did not mean my life in and out of school was picture perfect. During that time, I had possible depression. I was crying more or less every day. My genuine happiness was stripped from me, and it was hard to find light at the end of the tunnel. It may have taken time, but I gathered the courage to express my thoughts and emotions to my parents. I was nervous at first, but knowing they understood and agreed that therapy was necessary gave me peace. Eventually, I started attending monthly sessions with my counseling therapist. Since then, I have been speaking with a wonderful, knowledgeable therapist with magnificent expertise. Therapy has enabled me to acquire more effective coping mechanisms for episodes of anxiety and sadness. While I do still struggle, I can proudly say that my mental health has tremendously improved, because of counseling. I may fall down, but in the end, I get right back up. In all seriousness, I have learned major lessons through my experience. I have developed vast strength, resilience, and independence as an individual. My hope is with my career, I can use my story to help people feel not alone. Many with mental health issues feel excluded and the only person struggling, which is disheartening. The truth is, just because someone you come across appears to have the "perfect" life doesn't mean that they're not having difficulties. Life is not all the moon, stars, and rainbows. For me, it did not matter how often I took in the simple pleasures, had great moments with my parents, spent time with family, hung out with friends, and accomplished amazing things. In addition, another thing I hope to help others understand is mental health is something that needs to be destigmatized. None of us are immune. The truth is, having mental health troubles are like catching a cold. Therefore, it is out of our control and something you can't help. It's never your fault. Your brain is a delicate organ that you must care for every day, alongside with the rest of your body. I long to guarantee that the next generations ahead can learn from their personal hardships and become more educated with the importance of mental health, just like me. I am proud to have gone through the tough times, because I have been molded into the person I am. Thank you bold for allowing me to share my story.

If I had to think of my best piece of back-to-school advice, it would be to stay ahead as long as you can. This is a useful tip, because it's important to remember that your attitude about the school year can dictate your performance all year long. You will have a much higher chance to earn an A if you work hard and stay motivated from the start of the semester, than you would slacking off the first few weeks and having to play catch up. Let's face it. Procrastination is something you cannot stress enough and is easier said than done. They key is to mentally prepare yourself to put your best food forward, not only for the entire semester, but beyond your current path. When you stay on top of your studies and priorities, you can ultimately meet your criteria. You may be surprised on how far you'll go with staying ahead. There are expectations you might surpass. Every goal that we set is not just handed to us. We must work for what we want, maintain a positive mindset, overcome any obstacles we may face, and last but not least, never give up. Instagram handle: itsjor_dan03

It's important to pick up healthy eating habits, because having a healthy regimen helps to ensure longevity. In other words, when we consume nutritious foods, it guarantees that we can live a long, fulfilling life. In fact, my great-grandmother is going to be 93 years old this year. Despite navigating dementia with her since the COVID-19 pandemic hit in 2020, she has done remarkably well with her physical health for all her life. That has inspired me to keep valuing healthy eating habits, because I want to manifest in the best life possible for myself. When I was a little girl, I was a picky eater. However, learning about healthy eating habits early on encouraged me to try new foods and acquire more essential habits. Eating healthy is not only vital for your physical health, but also for your mental health as well. It's easy to say that I have learned that from my own experience. When I practice healthy eating habits, I notice that I am more energetic, alert, and less tired. In regards to my mental health, I am more confident, not as nervous, less confused, and have a higher attention span. This is because I am getting the nutrients I need, in order for my body to function properly. Another thing I sense in myself is a higher level of motivation. That means I feel more driven, determined, productive, and accomplished. It gives me a want and an urge to get things done in my life. To sum it up, it encourages me to keep going, because I have more energy and stimulation. I have a family history of Type 2 Diabetes on my mother's side. Her and my great-grandma told me that my great-grandpa Edward delt with diabetes and heart attacks. Unfortunately, his health was deteriorating and he ended up passing away from a heart attack. That is another factor that has contributed to me wanting the best for my health. In addition, I am also very spiritual. That has me firmly believing that you should always nourish and take care of your body. I took Human Nutrition last spring as one of my dual-enrollment classes. It taught me the importance of how eating healthy can come a long way. I remember learning about Blue Zones, where it was about people in different regions of the world that live a completely different lifestyle than me. Even that, has reminded me to make some changes. The key is if you eat healthy, you may live forever.

To me, continuous learning is important, because it can enable happiness and fulfillment for people in their lives and careers. The truth is, we cannot steer through life without the skill of learning. Let's face it and make this clear. Life and the world around us are not always going to adjust to our needs and specificities. Therefore, we must adapt to as much as possible, through what we experience and encounter. When we learn, we become much more knowledgeable, gain awareness, mindfulness, and acquisition. This will help us to overcome any challenges that we may face, because life is not always going to be a piece of cake. In addition, research has shown evidence that life-long learning helps main higher cognitive functioning. This means that it can lessen your chance of developing Alzheimer's Disease or other forms of Dementia. As a matter of fact, my family and I have been navigating Dementia with my great-grandmother, ever since the COVID-19 pandemic hit in 2020. Within the past couple years, she has been declining significantly, to the point to where she can no longer live on her own, nor take care of herself. We moved her into an assisted living facility over the summer. Saying that this has been a difficult thing to witness is an understatement. However, we know that she is in the right place equipped with the care she needs and deserves. Based on research and observations I conducted, there is so much that I have learned. Before my nana started deteriorating, I only knew very little about Dementia and what the brain does to itself. Now, I have gained a better understanding about what my nana is currently going through, which has helped me make sense on what is happening in her world so-to-speak. Nonetheless, I am still learning, not just about the concept of Dementia, but life as a whole. I graduated from high school with an Associate of Arts Degree from Daytona State College. However, that does not mean that my journey is going to end there. I am currently pursuing a major in Psychology at Stetson University. My ultimate goal is to become a Cognitive Behavioral Therapist for children. Needless to say, there is still going to be a lot of room for learning, even when I officially reach my peak with the career. That means I will continue learning by studying hard and soaking in as much as I can. This will help me better understand mental health, people around me, and the list goes on. If you think about it, our brain is like a sponge, trying to absorb and retain all the information. I am in constant learning mode and have a huge passion for it. I will make sure to convey my skills for the rest of my life.

My dream goal for my life is to become a Cognitive Behavioral Therapist. My heart has been set on psychology for several years now, and I hugely value advocating for people, to help them feel not alone, especially being an individual that has faced obstacles with their mental health, which lead to going to therapy. Me having a turn in that type of role in the future will be an honor, because I want to guarantee as much hope as possible for whomever I encounter.

If I had to think of the person that has given me the most support over the course of my education, it would be my mother. From beginning to end, she has always been by my side, done so much for me, and I can't thank her enough for it. I struggled in third grade and unfortunately ended up getting held back. It was scary and hard for both of us to process. I couldn't immediately envision how my future was going to look, but I made sure to stay hopeful. During the second year, my mom dedicated so much of her time to sit with me during homework assignments, reading, and major projects. Even though that meant becoming a stay-home mom, the sacrifice she made for me was well worth it, and will never be taken for granted. We have laughed together, cried together, and struggled together to get me to where I am today. However, all the little things, including the one-on-one time, made for a huge gift to my education. When things did get difficult, she always taught me to do my best, never give up, keep a smile on my face, and always have an optimistic attitude, especially during the time I had to repeat third grade. This has helped me to become a more motivated person and work hard for what I want in my future and overall life. In fact, I not only graduated high school this year, but also earned my Associate of Arts degree from Daytona State College. This was a goal that I set for myself in the beginning of my high school career. She was there with me to sign papers, get me registered for classes, and so on. My mom actually earned her associate's degree during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, and I could not be more proud of her. She gave me insightful advice on what classes are like at Daytona State and how college is as a whole, so I knew what to expect. If I had a question or needed clarification on an assignment, research paper, or project, I was never afraid to reach out to her, especially if I could not get in touch with my professor. She would give me feedback with great expertise, even if what I learned was something new to her. I see my mom as more than just my mom. From the past and now, she has always been a teacher and tutor to me, whenever I needed help. Yes, my father is also in my life, and I thank him for always reminding me to do my best and stay true to myself. I have been blessed to have such amazing parents. However, this all goes to my mom. I'm so grateful to have been given the chance to rave about her. She has molded me into the individual I am today through all the lessons I've been taught. To my mom, thank you for always being my backbone. It is such an honor to be your daughter.

Hi there! My name is Jordan. I graduated high school this year with an Associate of Arts degree from Daytona State College. I'm a first-generation college student and will be pursuing a Bachelor of Science degree in psychology at Stetson University. Eventually, I want to go for my master's and become a Cognitive Behavioral Therapist. My heart has been set on psychology for several years now. While higher education is a no brainer, it will be a surefire way to help me meet my goal. From this point forward, I still have a long way to go. However, reaching my peak will not be impossible. Saying that higher education is important sounds like an understatement, but it's true. In many people's cases, including mine, having an advanced degree opens numerous doors for career opportunities. Thus, it can guarantee higher pay, and a life with more options and possibilities. Having financial stability is an important tool for having a life of prosperity, success, and overall fulfillment. Higher education can play a major societal role. In other words, it can help manifest in improvements with current situations that our society is facing. Lower levels of unemployment and poverty is just one of the many solutions. Unfortunately, unemployment and poverty are still common, which shows that something different needs to get done. It's sad to witness the gap between lower-class and middle/upper-class communities because of this problem. It is true that our economy has room for improvement. Another remarkable result that could come from higher education is lower crime. If you think about it, one of the reasons for certain crimes being committed is for money. That's one of the biggest things that someone will crave and go far out of their way to try to get what they want. When such things like this happen, it's game over. With education comes increased patience, which decreases the discount rate of future earnings and ultimately reduces the propensity to commit crimes. Higher education encourages us to take life far more seriously for the future opportunities that await our reach. Finally, when we get to our dream-come-true career and have a decent pay, we realize that there are much better things out there for us. It is hugely important to look at the bigger picture when it comes to going to college and pursuing your profession. It is the very first step to building the future that we dream and watching it unfold through our eyes.

Hi, my name is Jordan, a first-generation college student attending Stetson University and pursuing a major in psychology. I graduated from Pine Ridge High School and earned an Associate of Arts degree from Daytona State College with high honors this year. Let's make this clear. For someone who had to repeat third grade, it was not always easy for me to get to where I am today. On a more personal basis, I was diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder at the age of three. I was in Exceptional Student Education (ESE) part-time for the majority of elementary school. Eventually, I began to sense a difference in myself. I was becoming increasingly conscious of my oversensitivity, and need for extra help in areas where most children required very little. It gave me the feeling that I was somehow "not normal" or "different" from the rest of society. However, I made sure not to let the fact that I have autism overshadow me or curse my life. The same thing goes for having to repeat third grade. In all honesty, it was genuinely a gift for my education. Just because I was "held back" in third grade does not mean I was "held back" from the opportunities in and out of school. I have been told numerous times that everything happens for a reason. This is a statement I firmly believe in and find the truth. When you put it into context, we can see that there was indeed a reason behind my needing to repeat third grade. Although it was hard to process and see why I accepted the fact that it happened. I reminded myself that it may be sad and hard to fathom, but one day, I will understand. Sure enough, I was right. As I advanced through my education, I made sure to maintain a positive attitude and stay as motivated as possible. It was about envisioning the future I want and making manifestations. When it came to middle school, I started with beginner-level classes. Meanwhile, I started making noticeable academic progress, and my parents, teachers, and advisors decided to move me up to higher-level classes in 8th grade. I even got into an honors course that same year, which was Algebra 1 which counted as my math credit for high school. Besides electives and several AP courses, virtually all my high school core classes were honors. When I approached sophomore year, I decided to take on dual enrollment with Daytona State, a local community college in my county. I scored high enough on all the Post Secondary Readiness Tests to take courses. I'm an ambitious, go-getter type of person. When I set a goal for myself, I do absolutely everything in my power to work for it. I am not afraid to fight for what I want. That goal was to graduate high school with an Associate of Arts degree. Although I knew it would not just be handed to me, nothing would stop me from making that accomplishment. Just like that, I did it. I graduated from Daytona State College with high honors. The moment I walked across the stage at both ceremonies, I experienced a mix of bittersweet emotions. I was a little sad witnessing an end to a fun chapter, but at the same time, proud of myself and excited to start a new chapter. Now, my current goal is to get my Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology in the next couple of years. Ultimately, I hope to get my master's degree and become a Cognitive Behavioral Therapist, specifically for children. One of the biggest changes I hope to see is mental health being destigmatized. Sadly, there is a major gap between mental and physical health that our society has created. In other words, there is a stigma that needs to get broken. Being that I have faced obstacles with my mental health in the past, it's easy to say that I have learned and observed so much from my own experience. I had horrible anxiety in 5th grade where I felt physically sick all the time. When it came to 7th grade, I was a target for bullying, which took a toll on my self-esteem and emotions. After I spoke to my parents about what I was going through and got therapy, things changed for the better. I am so much happier and stronger than ever before. During those times, I felt ashamed and could not find reasons for my feelings. I convinced myself that I was "being a baby" for what I felt. Nonetheless, I realized that it was all out of my control and nothing to feel at fault for. That's when I learned that no matter how "good" someone's life seems, you never know how someone is genuinely feeling. This is a true statement I can easily equate to what I encountered. I have wonderful parents, an awesome family, a great circle of friends, high academics, and so much more to be thankful for, that the list could go on. What people didn't know was the internal battle I fought on the inside until I started going to counseling. My biggest hope is to have a turn in advocating. What I also want to see is more people feeling less alone. Sharing my experience, expressing empathy, and giving affirmations could guarantee mental health getting the attention and respect that it deserves. Mental health has so much importance that we need our society to see. It's sad to see selfishness and people discriminating against their peers all because of a mental health issue. This is why I find it important to speak for those who can't and find overall closure within the current gap. The truth is it's okay to not be okay. Having rough patches mentally is just like catching a cold, which you can't help. Those are friendly reminders I long to convey in and out of my future career. From this point forward, I hope that my testimony touches anyone that reads or hears it, especially those at their lowest point. The hardships I endured have not made me weak. They have encouraged me to stay strong and molded me into the individual I am today. Through the good, the bad, and the ugly, I am proud of what I have faced because it gives me the chance to potentially make an impact on other people. Throughout my journey, there are so many new perspectives I gained. My friendly reminder is that you are strong, worthy, and can do anything that you put your mind to. Through strength, fervency, tenacity, and tranquility, anything in the world is possible. Every change, every step, and every accomplishment starts with you.

In my community, the country, and the world as a whole, the change I want to see is mental health becoming more destigmatized. For someone that has faced obstacles with their mental health, it's easy to say that I have observed enough to discover this stigma that needs to get erased. From suffering anxiety nearly 24/7, to possibly having depression in 7th grade from being bullied, attending therapy sessions once or twice a month, and finally feeling happy again, this is pure evidence that mental health must be treated the same way as our physical health. If you think about it, our brain is one of the most delicate and important organs. We need to provide great care for it, to foster a healthy and fulfilling life. Having such intense anxiety in 5th grade did eventually affect me physically. I often felt sick, tired, and hardly ever hungry. That resulted in me losing a lot of weight, which made it abundantly clear to my family that I was struggling. Although it may have taken time and courage for me, I opened up to my parents about my true feelings. They were empathetic, understanding, and got me the help I needed. Saying that going to counseling therapy has helped me tremendously is an understatement. Not only is my mental health in a much better place, but I have gained much more independence and confidence. Treatment can go such a long way for mental health, even if it means going to occasional therapy sessions. One of the things I do to act locally is reach out to my loved ones and ask how they are doing. If I learn that they're having trouble mentally, I give advice, but also empathize with them by sharing my own personal experience. Many people out there feel ashamed and alone. Therefore, talking about what I went through will hopefully help people to feel included and remind them that they are not alone under any circumstances whatsoever. I, myself have always made sure to remember that there are people in the same boat as me and everything in life is temporary. In addition, my mom and I have referred some people we know to the place I go to for counseling. Without specification, I have a friend who's currently facing troubles with their mental health and seeking help. I made sure to keep my friend informed of the potential opportunities the office may serve. We gave them cards from the office with contact information. Now, several of them actually started attending therapy sessions at the same office as me, and also noticed improvement with their mental health. Just simple tasks like this can truly make a difference. It's about spreading the word and encouraging our peers to never feel afraid to ask for help. My goal is to become a Cognitive Behavioral Therapist. Having a turn to advocate for people around me will be an honor, knowing that I can guarantee better lives in the world. I feel that my experience was a major learning curve that molded me into the person I am today. If it wasn't for the hardships, I probably will not have acquired the knowledge that I have. It's sad to witness the fact that people tend to discriminate with the concept of mental health. Some feel the need to bring others down because of their struggles, which makes them feel less than who they are. Because of it, our society has created a gap. However, taking action with deeds like this can help fill the gap between physical and mental health. Thus, we can ultimately break the stigma.

First of all, I could not imagine my life without having pets, simply because I have grown up with cats throughout all the 19 years that I have lived. All three cats that I've had were named after The Beatle's band. Ringo was my first cat, who we got from my grandmother. She had gorgeous, fire-like red fur and the most beautiful eyes that emitted a beam of light. Lennon joined us when I was just a toddler at the time when my mom worked at a bank and found him as a little kitty. Finally, Georgie, who's named after George Harrison was an abandoned little kitty found and rescued from the Kohl's parking lot. She was emaciated, starving, and had tons of worms in her body, which resulted in severe anemia. Thankfully, we were able to nurse her back to health with a steady diet and effective medication. As you can see, I have quite a history with my pets. Unfortunately, my first and eldest cat Ringo got diagnosed with diabetes in early 2020, which was just before the Covid-19 pandemic hit. Nonetheless, she did not let it stop her one bit. Meanwhile, we noticed she was suddenly declining in late 2021 and had to get put down. Saying that it was an incredibly hard decision to make is an understatement. Although we endured some sadness and heartache with having to let her go, we knew that it was God telling us that she needed to reach an end to her pain. Having pets has changed my life by encouraging me to always stay strong despite the tribulations we may face, especially after having to put Ringo down. Therefore, strength is something I have gained because of my pets. Being in the lockdown phase during the start of the pandemic had me bonding with my pets so much more, because we were forced to stay home. As a result, another thing I was taught is to always appreciate everything in life, both the big and the small stuff. The truth is, you never know what you've got until it's gone. Hearing that phrase hit me so much during the pandemic, before putting Ringo down, and even now. That is why it is so important to never take life for granted. As said in the song, Like I'm Gonna Lose You by John Legend and Meghan Trainor, "In the blink of an eye, just a whisper of smoke, you could lose everything. The truth is you never know." That is pure evidence that the utmost important things can get wholly stripped from you without expectation whatsoever. My reason for loving pets is because they make me happy and automatically love me back. To me, pets are special companions that can express a great form of love. They accept you for who you are and will always love you unconditionally. Despite Ringo being out of the circle, I know she will always have a place in our hearts. My cats are rays of sunshine that remind me to smile, even on the toughest days. Without them, I probably would not be who I am or where I am today. I will always thank God for bringing them into my life.

One hobby I became passionate about in the past couple of years is piano. For my 17th birthday, my dad got me my very own keyboard. I had expressed an interest in learning the song Life of the Party by Shawn Mendes on the piano. When the pandemic hit in 2020, there were so many unanswered questions. Schools were shut down, my mental health was struck, people became increasingly scared, and life overall no longer felt "normal." I decided to make a bet with myself to learn the whole song from beginning to end. The moment I played the song without any mishaps, I felt a beam of light coming from the end of the tunnel. Being that I am self-taught and not musically inclined, it took so much effort for me to reach that goal. I specifically chose Life of the Party by Shawn Mendes, because it lifted my spirits during that unprecedented time, while also teaching me how to embrace my imperfections. Another lesson I learned is not to be afraid to take a step out of your comfort zone and try something new. I used to be a timid, reserved, and introverted little girl. I am talking about the type to hide behind their parents to avoid all social interaction whatsoever. I would also cover my ears and hide when it got too loud in a room. However, I have overcome so much in my life, including stage fright. At my last choir concert, I decided to bare my soul and perform Life of the Party as a soloist. Although I knew it would be nerve-wracking, I wanted to savor that opportunity, considering I was a senior. Saying that I was nervous on stage is an understatement, knowing there were about 200-300 people with their eyes on me, piano keys I had to memorize, and notes I had to vocalize. However, my confidence kicked in. I started to breathe, become more relaxed, and increase my volume. Despite the nerves and some imperfections, I am so thankful to have been given the chance to pour my heart out and share a deeply meaningful message with my audience. If I could relive the moment a million times, I would. I'm sure my younger self would tell me, "Wow. You have come a long way." How I am versus how I was is easily comparable. I went from the shy girl that would stand behind a crowd to someone courageous and strong-willed. This was a dream I had for two years. Having it come true felt so surreal. It was a real-life fairytale. Ever since that night, I have become more comfortable in my skin, regardless of what my peers may think of me. My hobby and song have enabled me to grow as an individual. It gave me new perspectives and encouraged me to be more optimistic in life. The biggest takeaway that I've been reminded is to always be my own person. The only person you can truly be is yourself. I am me. I do not want to be anyone else but me. I am unashamed and not afraid. Thank you bold for giving me the chance to share my impact and story to the world. I hope my testimony touches anyone who reads it from the screen and helps you to remember your worth.

My favorite scientific discovery is the cell theory because I've always been interested in how humans and virtually all organisms in the world are made. At a young age, I wondered how babies and humans in general are made. I remember asking my parents and learning about how it works, which had me intrigued. 6th grade came and I learned about cells in my science class. I asked myself, what is a cell and what is its purpose? That's when I learned that the cells are the basic structural and functional units of all the living things. Then I knew if it wasn't for cells, we would not be alive, nor plants and animals. Those three parties have no way of thriving without cells. Although cells are incredibly small and invisible to the naked eye, they make a tremendous, universal step for molding the organisms that exist in the world. Eventually, I learned about the types of cell divisions, which are meiosis and mitosis. I was given the answer to my previous question. Although this discovery is theoretical, it has made a huge impact on scientific studies. I'm sure many people have seen products labeled as Genetically Modified Organisms or GMOs. What do you think is one of the things that vastly helps with this process? You guessed it, cells. Those special products have had changes introduced into their DNA using the methods of genetic engineering. If you think about it, DNA is highly involved in cells. Therefore, if it weren't for cells, we would have no DNA, nor genetics in general. Without realization, this is something many of us take for granted. We should thank Theodor Schwann for proposing this remarkable discovery, as it gives great evidence and answers for questions, just like it did for me.

Let's get real. I must admit that I have faced obstacles with my mental health. When I entered the 5th grade, I started getting anxiety that would occur on an almost daily basis. Looking back, I would personally describe it as a ticking bomb counting down the number of seconds, until it was time for apprehension, pessimism, and overall darkness to sink underneath my skin and eventually swallow me whole. On the outside, I was a happy-go-lucky girl, acting cheerful, jolly, lively, smiley, and laughing. However, I was fighting an internal battle with myself deep down inside. There were many instances when people thought that I was sad or depressed, no matter how hard I tried to conceal my true feelings. The anxiety hurt me not only mentally and emotionally, but physically. I often felt sick, tired, low on energy, and hardly ever hungry. As a result, I lost a lot of weight and wasn't growing. My parents noticed and were worried because it became abundantly clear to them that I was struggling. About halfway through my first year of middle school, I started to feel happier. I had hope that my mental health was going to be in a great place again. But when I hit 7th grade, things went downhill and took a turn for the worst. I became a target for bullying and felt vulnerable, which majorly took a toll on my self-esteem and emotions. This time, I had possible depression. I was crying nearly every day and became angry more frequently. When those emotions got the best of me, I had thoughts of wanting to hurt myself, but I never made that commitment, as I knew it wouldn't be beneficial for me. It may have taken a while, but I finally gathered the courage I needed to share my true feelings with my parents and explain I was seeking therapy. Although I was nervous, I could tell they were empathetic, and understanding, and agreed to help me. It was a relief to confess my true feelings after bottling them up for so long. Meanwhile, I started going to counseling sessions. I have been speaking with an amazing, knowledgeable counselor with wonderful tips and expertise. Going to therapy has enabled me to acquire effective coping mechanisms for episodes of anxiety and sadness. Another positive outcome I've received is more independence. Because of therapy, I am incredibly proud to say that my mental health has improved tremendously. Although I may still have moments of crying, feeling anxious, and not knowing what to do, the next moments show me getting back up. I smile, laugh, and have felt the genuine happiness that was once stripped from me, fill me up from head to toe. There is so much I have overcome. My experience is not seen as something that has cursed my life. I have been given the allowance to become a stronger person and learn a multitude of huge lessons from what I went through. One major takeaway I've received is that you should never assume someone's life. The truth is, that you never know what an individual may be going through. I've always had an amazing family, awesome parents, wonderful teachers, great friends, high academics and so much more. It's a beautiful life in the making right? Although I could make a long list of things I am thankful for and savor in life, it was clear that I was at my lowest when virtually nobody knew. I have been taught that life is not perfect. It doesn't always consist of the moon, stars, and rainbows. Life can be complicated with the curveballs that may get thrown at us. But that's okay. Through the good, the bad, and the ugly, there is so much we can prosper from. In addition, my experience helped me discover that mental health is something that needs to be destigmatized. In other words, there is a gap that our society has created between mental and physical health. To fill the gap, we must educate ourselves and others on the importance that mental health serves. My goal is to become a Cognitive Behavioral Therapist. I hope to break the current stigma by helping people better understand the correlation. If we want to have an adequate function in our lives, that means taking care of our physical and mental health. Another thing I want to do is use my experience to help people feel not alone. Sadly, many out there feel as if they belong to a different world because of their struggles. Numerous feel ashamed of what they deal with. Nonetheless, it is okay to not be okay. Having a mental health problem is not your fault, simply because it is out of your control. It's just like catching a cold, which you can't help. I hope my testimony touches those that read it and helps you know your worth. My friendly reminder is that you are strong, you are capable, you are special, you are beautiful, you are loved, and last but certainly not least, you are never alone. You matter so much to this world and anything is possible.

To me, being brave is having the courage to do anything that pushes you out of your personal comfort zone. For most people, bravery can look like going on a scary ride at an amusement park or public speaking. For other people, with the inclusion of myself, even tasks that you would think would be the simplest can take a great amount of courage. Voicing a dissenting opinion, asking for help, and standing alone in front of my peers are just several examples of tasks that require me to put on personal armor. That means taking time to rehearse and gathering all the confidence I need. As a little girl, I was the type to cover my ears, hide, and cry when it got too loud in a room. It was easy for me to get overstimulated. Nonetheless, I can say that I have vanquished some fears I carried, one of which would be stage fright. In fact, I made the decision to bare my soul to my audience and perform a solo at my last choir concert. I played Life of The Party by Shawn Mendes on the piano, while singing the song. Although I knew it would be nerve-wracking, I wanted to give myself a chance, considering that I was a senior. Saying I was nervous being on stage, in the spotlight, with hundreds of people having their eyes on me is an understatement. However, I eventually started to breathe, relax, and become more confident. I was incredibly proud that I overcame my fear, especially after hearing kind feedback and getting hugs. Since then, I have become somewhat more bold and willing to take big steps, regardless of what people may think of me. I'd rather be disliked for who I am than loved for who I'm not.

As an individual who has faced obstacles with their mental health, and has been set on psychology for nearly three years, I can see an impact being made through my eyes. Ultimately, my career goal is to become a Cognitive Behavioral Therapist. On a personal basis, I had anxiety in 5th grade that occured nearly every day of my life. Most of the time, I couldn't pinpoint why I was often so anxious. It became increasingly difficult for me to control my thoughts. 7th grade came and I was a target for bullying in my dance class, which resulted in possible depression. I have so much to be thankful for, which includes great parents, wonderful friends, and the list goes on. Although I've always had an awesome life to appreciate, the sadness, apprehension, and pessimism I struggled with eventually got underneath my skin. But thanks to an amazing counselor that I've been seeing since 7th grade, I can say that my mental health has improved tremendously. I'm much happier and have aquire effective coping skills for episodes of stress and sadness. I have felt inspired to become a therapist and have an eventual turn in advocating for others. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy focuses on encouraging people to change the way they think to help them in life, which is my primary goal. Additionally, having empathy is another thing that I want to accomplish as a Cognitive Behavioral Therapist. It will give me the chance to put myself in someone else's shoes and express my personal experiences. Many people out there that are struggling often feel alone. They are self-convinced that they are the only ones going through the circumstances and having those feelings. The real truth is that they are never alone. Whatever hardships they might be encountering are no bigger than how they are as a person. That is a huge reminder for virtually anyone to convey. I have learned to not let the rough patches I had with my mental health curse my life. The biggest takeaway for me is that it does not matter my past nor my now. The only thing that matters is how I continue to live as an individual and unfold my future. Instead, I want to strive to bare my soul, and pass on my message to as many people as possible. It's about encouraging others to live their lives full of optimism, joy, and overall fulfillment.

I serve as a mentor to my church in the summers when Vacation Bible School happens. Ever since 2018, I have been volunteering and acting as a teacher for kids. My job there is to spread the gospel and teach kids about God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit. I am a Non-Denominational Christian and have quite the testimony. Unequivocally, God has changed my life in tremendous ways and I want to see the same movement in my peers, especially kids. I've taught kids about Christ through small group discussions, games, and other team-oriented activities. I find it utterly important to talk about Christ and his power, because I know that I'm making a difference. The truth is you never know what someone needs to hear. So many people out there do not know who Jesus is and need that reach. Therefore, giving kids that chance will enable them to live a fruitful, healthy, spiritual life. Just a message can be hugely impactful and life-changing. It's a matter of keeping the conversation going. The bottom line is Jesus is the way and the truth. He is the one that can save you, which shows that your job is to put your belief and trust in him. I want to continue volunteerism in religious activities like this, because just words can bring such fulfillment.

Hi there! I'm Jordan Cruz, I graduated high school with an Associate of Arts degree from Daytona State College this year, and will be attending Stetson University in the fall. I will be pursuing a major in psychology. On a more personal basis, I was diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder at the age of three. Although I have no remembrance of my diagnosis and did not learn that autism is a part of me until I was 12, it did in a way change some things in my life. At the same time, I've made sure to not see autism as something that has cursed my life. Being an individual with high-functioning autism, I've observed that "neurotypical" and "disabled" are two terms that need to be destigmatized. In other words, such disabilities including autism should be normalized in our society. It's sad that people choose to make others feel less of a person, all because they seem "different," rather than an understanding that everyone is different. When people in 7th grade somehow found out I have autism, I was a major target for bullying, which damaged my mental health and led to a hole of depression. Nonetheless, I have a long list of ways to prove them wrong. One of the biggest struggles of mine was overstimulation. As a little girl, I would cover my ears, hide, and cry when stimuli around me got too loud. There was so much I was afraid of and because of it, I was labeled as a "scaredy cat" several times. However, I have overcame so many of my fears I once carried in the past. Autism is not something I suffer with. It's simply a trait part of my identity that makes me unique alongside everyone else. I think reminding people that there's no such thing as normality in the state of humanity will help decrease the current stigma so much. It's another way of saying that nobody's perfect. We all have our things. We all have our quirks. We all have our flaws. But we can fill in the gap by embracing ourselves, our peers, as well as enabling mutual growth, and inclusion. We are all human. We have special capabilities. If I were to win this scholarship, it will be an assistant that will help me achieve my biggest ambition. My career goal is to become a Cognitive Behavioral Therapist. I want to teach others how to overcome any fear, accept themselves, and know their worth. The biggest thing I want to remind those with Autism or other disabilities is that they are so much more than what they struggle with. This message will give people a visualization of the big picture.

"One small crack does not mean you are broken. It means that you were put to the test and you didn't fall apart." -Linda Poindexter Great quote. This is pure evidence of what I faced. Who I was. Who I am. How I live. Although I have a wonderful family, devoted friends, a roof over my head, and so much more to be thankful for, I admit that I have encountered obstacles with my mental health. Saying it was not easy is an understatement. In 5th grade, I had immense high anxiety that occurred on an almost daily basis. Most of the time, I could not form a reason for my anxiousness. About 99.9% of the time, I wore what I would call, "My personal smiley face sticker." In other words, I was happy-go-lucky on the outside, but fought an internal battle deep down inside. Virtually nobody knew my true feelings. I often went to bed with pain and woke up with pain. It not only hit me mentally and emotionally, but also physically. I often felt tired, low on energy, hardly ever hungry, and sick. It got to the point to where I lost a lot of weight and wasn't growing. That made it abundantly clear to my family that I was struggling. I was shocked and mad at myself, thinking why am I having those feelings with all the good in my life? Fast forward to 7th grade. I became a major target for bullying, mainly in my dance class. As a result, I cried nearly everyday. Once again, I pretended to be the most jolly girl you know, even though my happiness was completely stripped from me. This felt like a repeat of 5th grade, but worse. This time, I experienced possible depression and had thoughts of self harm. However, I knew hurting myself was not the trick, and that I needed to keep taking care of my health. Darkness at that time truly got underneath my skin and got ready to swallow me whole. Meanwhile, I finally gathered the confidence to speak to my parents about what I was going through. They were empathetic, understanding, and agreed to get me the help I needed. It may have taken a while, but I was able to get into counseling therapy. Since then, I have been speaking with an amazing, knowledgeable therapist with great expertise. Therapy has helped me acquire more effective coping mechanisms for episodes of anxiety and sadness. Another outcome is more independence. As of right now, I am proud to say that I am much happier, and stronger than I've ever been. I have never once had a thought of self harm. I still occasionally have moments of falling down, stressing out, crying, and not knowing what to do. In the end, I get back up. My career aspiration is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I feel inspired to have a turn in advocating for those at their lowest mental level. I want to remind people to never be ashamed. My mental health hardships have molded me into the person I am today. This experience has taught me that mental health is something that needs to be destigmatized. It's a concept that deserves more awareness and respect. Having a mental illness is just like catching a cold. Therefore, it is something far out of our control. Every feeling you have in life day in and day out matters. The biggest takeaway to carry on is that you are beautiful, you are worthy, you are strong, you are capable, and you are loved!

"Everything happens for a reason." This is a statement that I firmly believe in and has helped me stay optimistic. It has reminded me that even though we may not always understand the obstacles we face, there is an eventual explanation. Therefore, as we navigate through life, we will gain an understanding at some point. A good example would be the time I had to repeat third grade. I remember feeling upset, overwhelmed, concerned, and somewhat puzzled about the future, learning that I was not going to be moving on alongside most of my friends. But over time, I realized how beneficial that decision was for my education. I eventually grew to accept that it was needed for me, despite how hard it was. Looking back, I can see how much I struggled that year. Getting held back was not a "curse" to my education. It was only to provide more training to push me forward. This is a perfect example of evidence to support the fact that there is reasoning behind every circumstance, whether if we see it or not. Another thing that has encouraged optimism is remembering that absolutely everything in life is temporary. It is about knowing that there will always be light at the end of the tunnel. In September of last year, my cat suddenly declined and had to get put down. It was hard to witness her pass away. It may have taken time, but I reached the last part of the grieving stage, which was acceptance. The pain and sorrow I felt melted away, and I started a new beginning for myself. Curveballs happen in life when we least expect it. But when we stay optimistic, we are filling the gap between the bad and the good.

Benjamin Franklin coined this famous phrase, "A Penny saved is a Penny earned." In other words, it is advisable to save money that you already have as it is to earn more. On an economic basis, the six main functions of money are durability, portability, divisibility, uniformity, acceptability, and limited supply. The bottom line is to save money. It may sound basic, but there is so much reasoning. When we save money, we are inching ourselves away from debt, which can be anxiety-inducing, especially in college. At the same time, it allows us to enjoy greater security in our lives. But why exactly should we save money? Because saving money helps navigate tricky situations, meet financial obligations, and ultimately build wealth. Emergency funds are the most crucial with budgeting, especially if you have no health insurance. Something unexpected is bound to happen and we never know. Therefore, setting money aside for those scenarios gives us the chance to be more readily prepared, and receive adequate intervention fast. We must give money the utmost trust. Even more so in emergencies that occur to ourselves or our loved ones. We live in a society where we have to be ready for anything. There is a very distinctive difference between having a need and a want. Needs in life are things that are necessary for our health and safety. We "need" them to live and function. Wants in are simply desired items unnecessary for our quality of life. They make little to no difference whatsoever. Sometimes, they are easier said than done. Focusing on what we need more so than what we want is vital. We must fulfill our basic biological needs, such as food, water, and shelter. Once again, "A Penny Saved is a Penny Earned."

When I was about eight or nine years old, I came up with an imaginary Rockstar. The name of the Rockstar was Mandy. I saw her as a rock singer that played the electric guitar and sang her heart out. Anytime a family gathering involved my Aunt Karleen and Uncle Josh, I would chant, "Hi! It's Rockstar Mandy here!" Josh would be quick to jokingly ask something along the lines of, "Oh is it Rockstar Landry? Sandy? Mantry? Ba-bandy?" That is when I'd loudly reply, "It's Mandy!" The conversation would continue until one of us decided to change the subject. My 13th birthday came and I had a party with my family at my aunts house, before she moved. My aunt Karleen told me we were on the hunt for a secret message. At first I had absolutely no idea what she was talking about, but it made sense in the end. First, we went to her neighbors house that had a little pasture with horses, and found a couple items. The objects were a beautiful, decorative rock that said, "Dream," and a picture of a star my cousin Lucas drew on a piece of paper. However, it doesn't end there. Once we got back to her house, I discovered a picture of a random man in her front yard. I immediately wondered who that guy was and chuckled a little, but nobody knew. We went inside for the very last portion, which was a letter "D" traced and cut out. I was somewhat puzzled. However, I made sure to lay out the items. I said to myself, "We have a Rock, a Star, a Man and a letter D." After several thinking seconds, I powerfully announced, "It's Rockstar Mandy!" That is when the whole family and I were cracking up with tears of laughter. I thought it was incredibly clever how my aunt and uncle mapped out the secret message. I still to this day reminisce those moments, even more so with the secret message. In fact, I have been trying to go through and get rid of a lot of things I no longer need nor want. There were several times I came across the items from that day, while I did organizing and cleaning in my bedroom. Objects like those have so much meaning, and are a major exception in my life that I will never let go. More importantly, I will carry the inside joke in my heart forevermore!

If I had to think of the one attribute that I find the most valuable in myself, it would be tenacity. My family, especially my mom, have always described me as a tenacious person. Tenacity is admirable to me, because I am hugely passionate about these three words; Don't Give Up. I always push myself towards my limits, ambitions and boundaries. When I feel a strong urge to meet a goal, I work for it. I make sure to gather the fervency, courage, strength, and stamina I need. It is personal armor that I wear and never remove from my body. Even if life's curveballs are making attempts to get underneath my skin and wear me out, I make sure to maintain a positive and productive attitude. I started dual-enrollment my sophomore year and graduated high school with an Associate of Arts degree from Daytona State College. In fact, I received my associates degree even before my high school graduation. Despite the countless hours of homework, restless nights of studying, occasional stress and tears, I am proud to have made that decision. I am proud to have sacrificed the time and effort into this ambition. I am proud to have had that experience. Last but not least, I am proud to have achieved the goal. Because I will go to college full-time, I firmly believe that having this trait will help me acquire more independence and take bigger steps in life. My ultimate goal is to become a Cognitive Behavioral Therapist. I know this goal is not just handed to me. It will take a lot of time, effort, and dedication. However, having a support system, staying confident, and persevering will help me reach my peak. I make sure to wholeheartedly stay true to myself in my oaths and vows. It is about staying focused, even if you are genuinely tired of it, and fighting for what you want.

First of all, the American Dream has a subjective connotation. In other words, it gives us entitlement to have our own opinion, perspective, thought, idea, or definition. When I was a dual-enrollment student taking ENC 1102, I did a project that involved this topic. Even now, my vision of the American Dream has not changed whatsoever. To me, the American Dream means painting your ultimate, personal portrait called life. It is morally about achieving the highest aspirations, ambitions, boundaries and goals any American can ever imagine. A door that opens to virtually endless opportunities bound to unfold. Someone informed me that the meaning of life is how you make it out to be as an individual. The same can be applied to the American Dream. It reminds me that regardless of what your surroundings look like, you can accomplish anything you put your mind to. Therefore, anything is possible with strength and stamina. In addition, I also see the American Dream as overcoming any obstacles you may encounter. Life gives us curveballs. It is not all butterflies and flowers. We go through hardships that we may never expect. However, we are superheroes with such resilience and special capabilities we may not easily see in ourselves. What we need is the strength to put on our personal cape, and to allow our power to override the face of adversity. For nearly several years now, I have had my heart set on a major in Psychology. I want to be a Cognitive Behavioral Therapist. I just graduated high school with an Associate of Arts degree from Daytona State. That does not mean I am done yet. This goal is not just going to be handed to me. I still have a ways to go on my journey. Nonetheless, I know that maintaining tenacity, effort, and courage will help me get to the finish line. I hope to use my degree to achieve my view by reminding people to believe in themselves. Although meeting a goal is hard, it is important to remember that it is not impossible. The key is to stay focused, even if you are genuinely tired of it, and keep fighting for what you want. More importantly, never give up. My hope is that my story will touch others and be an eye-opener to their lives. Advocate for yourselves and others, give advice, and know your worth.

At the age of three, I was diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Although I do not have remembrance of the diagnosis, I learned and understand that it was a very hard pill for my parents to swallow. My family noticed social regression in me prior to my diagnosis, which made it abundantly clear that autism was the case. Upon being diagnosed, I went through over 8 years of Occupational Therapy (OT) and about a decade of Speech Therapy. Both of those therapies were designed to help me manage social situations and circumstances that may lead to sensory overload or overstimulation. I was afraid of loud noises such as thunder, fireworks and balloons popping. I would even cover my ears and hide when it got too loud in a room for my comfort. I was also an incredibly shy, reserved, and nervous child. In a way, I could say that getting diagnosed did change some aspects of life from how they would've been. I was in an Exceptional Student Education (ESE) program part-time for most of elementary school, because I needed extra help in certain subjects. Eventually, I started to sense a difference in myself. I was becoming increasingly self-conscious about my oversensitivity and the fact that I needed more help in areas where most children require very little. When I reached 7th grade, I was a target for bullying, mainly in my dance class, because I had trouble keeping up with my peers. Being that my coordination is not my strength and kids somehow finding out I have autism, it made them see me less than a person. Needless to say, it was hard being victimized, as the bullying took a toll on my mental health. Despite all of what I have been through, I know in my heart that there is a lot I have accomplished and deserve to be proud of. I have overcame so much in my life and surpassed many expectations my teachers and parents had for me. In addition, I not only graduated high school this year, but I also got my Associate of Arts degree from Daytona State College after two years of dual-enrollment. I will be attending Stetson University starting this fall and pursuing a major in psychology. My goal is to get a masters degree and become a Cognitive Behavioral Therapist. I want to encourage people to change the way they think to help them overcome any obstacles they encounter in their lives. I long to have a turn to advocate for others in need, whether if they are like me or not. I have grown to accept the fact that autism is a part of me and remind myself that I have come a long way. This shows that it is so easy to prove those that seek to bring you down wrong. Autism has not cursed my life. Instead, it has only molded me into the individual I am today and will become. I know that life and the world are not always going to adjust to my daily needs. Therefore, I must continue to adapt to as much as possible. I want to use this message as evidence to let those with autism know that you are not alone. You are so much more than your diagnosis and can conquer anything you put your mind to. The truth is, anything is possible with effort, hope, faith, strength, stamina, endurance, and willingness. The biggest key takeaway to remember is that nobody is perfect. I hope to speak for those who cannot and see more societal acceptance that we deserve.

Educating myself and having open-mindedness is what helps me stay committed to speaking my mind. I'm a non-confrontational person. In other words, I'm not about debating or impulsively speaking about an issue. Instead, I try to stand in the shoes of both sides, understand different perspectives, and do my research first. Living in a county with such democracy has me thankful for having a say. It's great to know my voice can be heard. However, I want to ensure I have evidence to support my opinion, so my peers don't think I'm spreading false material. Being knowledgeable about something allows me to have a solidified opinion that makes sense to myself and my audience. On a personal basis, analyzing my present life and my eventual future also helps me maintain commission. I have major goals that can easily be broken down. Therefore, I have both short-term and long-term goals. I must make what I want to achieve as attainable and doable as possible. Also, when I get a gut feeling that something doesn't seem right, I voice it out. The first step to taking action and finding a solution is using your words. It's a matter of listening to yourself and doing what's best. With that being said, I could not be more thankful of the fact that we have the freedom of speech unlike other countries. It's something that we as American's take for granted without realizing. Once again, I will make sure to continue living my life in a groove of my own.

First of all, I want to admit that I have faced obstacles with my mental health in the past. I had horrible anxiety in 5th grade that occurred almost every day. I was happy-go-lucky on the outside, but fighting an internal battle deep down inside. It was like a ticking bomb was counting down the seconds, until it was time for an explosion of darkness to fill me up from head to toe, and then eventually swallow me whole. I was hurt not only mentally and emotionally, but also physically. I often felt tired, sick, and hardly ever hungry. As a result, I lost tons of weight and wasn't growing, which had my family, especially my parents, worried about my wellbeing. It became abundantly clear to them that I genuinely was at my lowest. At that point, I knew speaking up was the first step to get help. I couldn't continue to handle it all on my own. Despite feeling afraid, I gathered the confidence I needed to speak with my parents about what I was going through. I could tell that they were incredibly understanding and knew what to do for me. In fact, they were relieved hearing I was honest with my feelings. Fast forward to 7th grade, I was being bullied in school, which took a toll on my mental health. It caused depression, as I was crying nearly every day. It was as if I was being broken and shattered by negative influences. I felt like an outcast, like I belonged to an entirely different world. It made me feel like a burden on my friends, teachers, and even my own family. Although it may have taken time, I was finally able to get myself into counseling therapy. Since then, I have been speaking with an amazing, knowledgeable, and patient therapist. Counseling has helped me to acquire coping skills for episodes of anxiety and sadness. Another positive result is more independence. Because of it, I am so much happier. I still have my "moments" where I fall, get anxious, and cry, but in the end, I get right back up. For almost three years, I've had my heart set on psychology. With that major, I want to be a counseling therapist for children. My experience has inspired me to pursue that goal of advocating for others in need. Mental health is an aspect that deserves more destigmatization, as it hugely correlates with your physical health. It's sad that people in our society blame people for their mental illnesses. Instead, we need to see people taking a moment to put themselves in their shoes and have empathy. In addition, I want to teach those that are struggling to never feel ashamed. Why? Because it's far out of our control. It's never your fault. It's just like having a cold. Therefore, the truth is, you can't help it. It's okay to not be okay. I hope my message and career will help everyone to know that you are never alone, especially with my experience that I discussed. I also hope to lift others up and help them to remember that everything in the world is temporary. Whatever obstacles you may face will only get better as time passes. Just words can truly affect someone from how they think, feel, and see life and the world around them. That's why we should always take what we say into consideration and think about our words. Finally, my friendly reminder is that you are worthy, you are capable, you are strong, you are blessed, you are beautiful, and you are loved!

If I had to think of one sentence to share to the world, it would be to never feel ashamed of where you come from. Diversity is such a beautiful tapestry. However, others may not see eye-to-eye on that. People often think that everyone should be raised a certain way, instead of putting themselves in their shoes and realizing that even though what they observe is not what they're used to, that doesn't mean that they deserve hate. What's also sad is that people make bad connotations out of someone else they perceive as different, rather than an understanding that everyone is different. As a result, they become victimized and feel ashamed of themselves after being excluded. It delegitimizes them and causes higher vulnerability. This is something that I, myself can relate to. I was diagnosed with autism when I was 3. In 7th grade, I was a major target for bullying in my dance class, because I had trouble keeping up with my peers. Almost everyone somehow found out I had autism and treated me poorly. It made me feel I was not as capable and didn't belong. In their eyes, I was seen as a bad stain that would never come out. However, I learned that just because I'm autistic doesn't mean I'm not as capable. From religion, ethnicity, culture sexuality, and disabilities, everyone is unique in their own special ways. Everyone deserves to feel included, knowing that we're all different. Therefore, as much as you should embrace other people, don't forget to also embrace yourselves. You are so much more than what people may say about you. No matter what, never try to be anyone besides yourself. The biggest key is that you are loved and appreciated!

Spring break rolls around. Then you find out from the school that students get an extra week off only to find out that COVID-19 spreaded to our state. The first thought that comes is, "Oh nice! I can sleep in, watch movies, hang out with friends, and have all the fun I want!" Wouldn't you know that one extra week off turned into resorting to remote learning for the rest of the school year. Then goes so many unanswered questions at that time. When will I go back to school? When will this end? When will I see my friends again? Will the pandemic last forever? It was an unthinkable that caused a great deal of turmoil for students, parents and teachers. I remember learning a famous saying that said, "You never know what you have until it's gone." That phrase hit me hard during that time, because I did not know the last day of school for spring break would potentially be the last day of seeing my friends, the last day of seeing my teachers, the last day of being in a classroom, let alone the last day of being on campus. With that, I'm sure teachers did not know it would be their last day of waking up early in the morning, their last day of being the king or queen of the classroom so-to-speak, which meant overall their last day of having a job. March of 2020 had us blind of what was bound to happen in the next school years. We simply could not envision the scholastic dynamics. That left students with a tough decision, which was whether to continue public school or work online. That left teachers with a tough decision to stay teaching on campus, teach virtually, or worst comes to worst, lose their job. Although normalcy has been somewhat reintroduced in our education system, there is still so much to consider. However, I firmly believe that with the normalcy that we currently have, we will eventually revert back to our old education life. That would mean not having to wear masks, having dances, special events, and field trips. It will help us to fill the gap between our current status and our pre-COVID status. It's just like the book 'Inside Out and Back Again.' This was a story about a Vietnamese family who had to flee during the war, which was a tough circumstance. Despite what they went through, they found closure, thus helping them to start a new beginning. We as human beings are just as capable as that family, whether if we see it or not. This pandemic will pass, just like diseases of the past, such as the Spanish Flu, Polio, and many others. We are so much stronger people now because of advances in medicine, technology, and more. This has taught me to stay optimistic and take my education more seriously. Having school off is all fun and games until you realize the seriousness of the reason. This tough time should give us hope that we are still ensured a superior education. I am a senior and will be graduating this year. Afterwards, I will be going off to college. I hope my story helps people to know that there is always light at the end of a tunnel. Even though it might be hard, always look on the brightside. Keep your head up, work hard, give advice, surround yourself by good people, and know your worth.

First of all, I have to say that I have faced some obstacles with my mental health in the past. When I was in 5th grade, I possibly had an anxiety disorder. Nearly every day, I would have anxiety, even if it was for no reason whatsoever. About 99.9% of the time, I went to school and every single place I could possibly list faking a smile. On the outside, I was happy-go-lucky, but on the inside, I was fighting an internal battle. I lost interest in activities I previously enjoyed. It hurt me not only mentally and emotionally, but also physically. I often felt sick, low on energy and hardly ever hungry. As a result, I lost a lot of weight and was not growing, which made my parents worried. It became abundantly clear to them that I was genuinely struggling. I knew I could not continue to handle it on my own, so I opened up to my parents. Although I was afraid at first, I could tell they understood and agreed to help me, which gave me peace and relief. Fast forward to 7th grade. I was bullied and ridiculed, which made me feel broken and shattered. This time, I had possible depression, because I was feeling incredibly defeated. That also caused me to often cry and almost never feel happy. I felt like a burden on my friends, my teachers, and even my own family. It may have taken a while, but I was finally able to get myself into counseling therapy. I have been speaking with an amazing, knowledgeable, and patient therapist since, and I am so thankful for it. Therapy has enabled me to acquire more effective coping mechanisms whenever I feel anxious or down. I have also gained a lot of independence from it. As of right now, I am much happier. If it was not for therapy, I probably would not be where I am today. Of course I still have my moments where I fall, get anxious, cry, and not know what to do. In the end, I get back up, and cherish a new day after all. I ensure that I get back to more positive, productive thinking. I used to think to myself that I was quote unquote, "being a baby." Now, looking back and think I realized that I should not let my past dictate who I am. The biggest takeaway I received is that having mental health problems is just like catching a cold. Therefore, you can't help it, because it is something far out of our control. It has taught me that mental health is something that deserves more attention and to be destigmatized, as it has a high correlation with our physical health. It is very sad that some people do not bother to take mental health into account when they should. If we want to maintain good physical health, we must do the same for our mental health. How our physical health is can influence how our mental health will be and vice versa. When it comes to relationships, my experience enables me to be empathetic, when I hear that someone is going through a tough time. It encourages me to put myself in someone else's shoes, imagine the heartache they faced, and show that I can relate to them. That is what helps people to feel not alone in the world. I am also incredibly careful with that I say, because you never know how someone may perceive something, especially if they are at their lowest. Just words can make a huge impact on someone's feelings. Having patience, thinking before you speak, and being a good listener are the main tools to building strong, healthy ties. My goal is to pursue a major in psychology. I have felt encouraged to advocate for others in need. Despite the hardships that I endured, I can tell that I have learned big lessons. It has been an honor to grow intellectually and gain new perspectives on life and the world. Life gives you curveballs and there is so much to learn through what you encounter. You should never ever feel ashamed of your struggles, simply because nobody's perfect. All our flaws are what make us stronger than we will ever imagine. You are so much more than what you might be currently facing. Just a friendly reminder that you are worthy, you are capable, you are strong, you are included, you are beautiful and you are loved!

I have stayed optimistic through hardships I have faced by keeping in mind that everything is temporary. That is the one thing to remember, because it reminds you that it can only get better. A good example would be when I had to repeat third grade. The moment I found out that I needed to get held back, I was upset and felt bad about myself. I knew things were not going to be the same, simply because most of my friends were moving up without me. However, I quickly came to the realization that I am not alone and that everything happens for a reason. Since I was truly struggling, it was right for me to face 3rd grade again, rather than move on before I was genuinely ready, feel inadequate, and have an even harder time. It enabled me more efficient progress, confidence and readiness for the upcoming years. Although times like this can be unequivocally difficult, I value having a healthy mindset and attitude. With me realizing that I am never alone, it gives me a sense of peace, knowing that I am never the only one going through what I am going through. That is a definite key to remember. Another thing that helps me with optimism is patience. It gives me the chance to analyze the problems and solutions. It is morally about giving everything time. Therefore, I cannot just expect something to improve overnight. It may be a gradual process, but it is a great learning experience. Life gives you curveballs at times. It is not all butterflies and flowers. It is imperfect. That means you are going to fall, but the only thing you can ever do is get back up. Just a friendly reminder that you are strong, worthy and loved!

To me, friendship means having a strong tie with someone. It is essentially having an individual a part of your life that you can truly count on. My own visualization of a genuine friendship is almost like having a sibling. From having sleepovers, going places, ranting to each other, giving advice, and just simple conversations via text or phone call. It is a type of relationship that you can hugely value in your life. The most important thing is to ensure that your friendship is healthy. True friends are the ones that love you, support you, respect your boundaries, stay by your side, and never give up on you. I remember in 3rd grade, I had after school tutoring sessions on Tuesday's and Thursday's for about an hour. Before each class, all the students would meet in the cafeteria for a snack. One day, a bright girl named Katie sat next to me. We introduced ourselves and very quickly got to know each other. We ended up having a class together the next school year. From there, our friendship blossomed tremendously. We talked a lot more, hung out a few times, and went to each others birthday parties. As of right now, I'm 18, Katie is 17, and we are still the best of friends we could be. I am super thankful to have her as a friend. She is such an amazing person and I do not know what I would do without her. My short story shows that a friendship is such a beautiful aspect. It is like being a part of the family. The little things that come about are what mean the most, just like in my case. Meeting Katie via tutoring was a small, yet a meaningful start to our friendship. Make yours matter too!

One of my favorite hobbies would be playing the piano. For my 17th birthday, my dad got me my very own keyboard. Ever since then, it has had my heart. Although music is not something I would consider majoring in, I deeply value it as an everyday necessity. I find piano enjoyable, especially while I sing at the same time, because it gives me the chance to express myself. In addition, it allows me to have fun with the spare time I have, even after a long, busy day. My all-time favorite song to play on the piano is Life of The Party by Shawn Mendes. Months before I got my keyboard, I once had a dream that I played the entire song and sang along. Besides a few lullabies, Life of The Party was the very first song I learned. After giving it a few listens, I decided to spend my time practicing. Fast forward to March of 2020. The pandemic hit and schools closed down as a result. I remember all the unanswered questions that exploded in my mind. I had trouble envisioning what the future was going to look like. During the quarantine period, I spent even more time learning the song from beginning to end. Being that I am self-taught and have not take lessons in the past, it took months for me to learn the whole song. I watched extremely helpful videos that enabled me to pick up skill and ultimately play it all. The moment I played the song for the first time without any mishaps, I got the feeling that my dream came true. It was almost as if the world stopped and I was being lifted up by a cloud. I am very thankful that it got me through quarantine and gave me a new perspective. Once summer came, I finally gathered the confidence I needed to video myself playing and singing the song, and posting it on my snapchat story. Minutes later, I got so many amazing messages from friends. My friend Gabriella said, "Oh my gosh you did so good!" A girl named Amy said, "This is so good! Keep doing what you're doing!" Finally, my guy friend Austin said, "Heck yeah Jordan! That's awesome!" Seeing those responses were truly uplifting and made my day. Remembering those encourages me to keep doing what I love and never give up on my dreams. Picking up that hobby and trying something new was an awesome opportunity for me. I hope one day I gain the courage to play on stage in front of many people. This shows that you can do anything you put your mind to. If I can do it, so can you!

Being patient is important to me, especially with my peers. It is a form of kindness, compassion and care for others around you. It enables you to be display more generosity, empathy, and forgiveness. A good example would be my mom recently having a major surgery. As a result, I did not get to do a whole lot during winter break. However, I knew that my moms health must come first. I did chores, picked up groceries, cooked dinner, and drove her to her follow-up appointment, without a complaint. I made sure to keep in mind to take it one day at a time until she fully recovers. Patience in that situation is a huge attribute. Another reason why I value patience is because it helps me achieve my goals. Of course I must push myself towards my limits, boundaries and ambitions, simply because goals are not going to be handed to me. Therefore, it is about staying committed and fighting for what you want. At the same time, being too hard on yourself is not healthy. Things will get overwhelming and difficult, because life and the world will not always adjust to your needs. You have to adapt to as much as possible with the obstacles you face. When something gets hard for me, I try not to tell myself, "I can't do this," or, "I'm not good enough." Instead, I replace those phrases with something along the lines of, "I'm not there yet, but I will get there in my own time." I remember being told the idioms, "Hold your horses," and, "Keep your shirt on." Even as a child, I knew early on that those both mean to be patient. Taking aspects easy on yourself and others helps you learn big lessons. Patience is the key!

I support equality and diversity by building strong ties with people around me. It is morally about accepting others for who they are and bonding with them. Unfortunately, there are people in the world we live in that are narrow-minded and choose exclusion, when they get in contact with someone they perceive as different, rather than an understanding that everyone's different. Those types of people think that everyone should look or be raised the same way, instead of putting themselves in others shoes and understanding that even though what they observe is unlike the aspects in their own lives, that does not mean that they do not deserve belongingness. A major benefit with diversity is that it enables mutual growth and embrace. It can also help us to feel included, knowing that we are all unique in our own special ways. I am super passionate about acceptance, inclusion, and equality. In addition, I make sure to always be mindful and careful with my words. I remember a long time ago that before you speak, you need to T.H.I.N.K. This means asking yourself if what you're about to say is true, helpful, inspiring, necessary and kind. When getting impulsive and not thinking twice, we are then quick to say, "That's not what I meant." I learned to see the big picture of that phrase when taking Diversity, Culture and Communication last year in the spring. The last thing I want to do is inadvertently say something out of place to someone and witnessing their feelings getting hurt. Therefore, I ensure that I am being serious, modest, cordial and mannerly with what I want to announce. Just words can truly impact someone and how they feel about themselves. Diversity is such a beautiful tapestry that deserves all the love and value!

Hi, my name is Jordan. At the age of three, I was officially diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder. The diagnosis was scary for my parents to witness. At first, they could not envision what my future would look like. I went through speech therapy to help with my social skills. I also did occupational therapy, which helped me gain a lot more independence. When it came to school, I was in exceptional student education or ESE part-time to help me pick up better learning strategies. That hugely helped me to advance in my education. Even before I was told I had autism, I sensed a difference in myself. I was becoming increasingly conscious of my oversensitivity and need for "extra help" in areas where most students require very little. Then when I was first told, it was a little hard for me to hear. However, I knew that autism is not something that will curse my life. We all have our own differences and things. The key to remember is that nobody's perfect. Therefore, I felt encouraged to accept myself for who I am and to never be ashamed. Inclusion is what fills the gap. At 12 years old, I graduated from occupational therapy and then speech therapy a year later. As of right now, I am a senior in high school and have been dual-enrolled with Daytona State College since sophomore year. I am 18, driving on my own, taking classes on campus, and will most likely graduate high school with my associates degree. I am incredibly thankful for the help, support, guidance and patience from wonderful teachers, my awesome parents, and my great family. I am also grateful for tender-hearted friends who are always been by my side, understand me, and will never judge me. I would not be who I am or where I am today without these people as my support network. I am fortunate to be a high-functioning individual, living the life like any other person. My main life goal is to pursue a major in psychology and a minor in biblical studies. Post-secondary education will help me achieve my goal by encouraging me to always keep my best foot forward. That means pushing myself towards my limits, goals and boundaries. I know that a goal like this is not going to be handed to me. I must stay committed and work for it. I have been taught to always stay focused, even when you know you're tired of it, and just keep fighting for what you want. With the major and minor, I want to hopefully counsel people on the obstacles they're facing and share God's word. Taking classes related to counseling and religious studies will help me become more knowledgeable about those aspects for when I advocate. It will give me the right things to say, in hopes that others are influenced, especially for those that are lost and unfortunately have no idea who God is. I hope my story and my dream will be an eye-opener and a reminder to stay strong, know that you are capable and can conquer anything you put your mind to regardless of what the world sees in you!

When I was in the 5th grade, I had very intense anxiety that occurred on an almost daily basis. On some days, I did not know why I was feeling that way. The best way of describing it is as a ticking bomb counting down the seconds, until it is time for it to explode, and have darkness fill you up from head to toe. At that time, I was at my lowest when very few people knew. I hit it from my friends, teachers and even my own family. On the outside, I was happy-go-lucky. However, I was fighting an internal battle deep down inside. I would cry almost every day. My anxiety made my self-esteem drop and caused me to lose interest in activities I previously enjoyed. It affected me not just mentally and emotionally, but also physically. Most of the time, I would go to bed with pain and wake up with pain. I often felt sick and hardly ever hungry, which got to the point to where I lost a lot of weight and was not growing. My family got worried after observing that, so I knew I could not continue to handle it on my own. Although it was hard for me to open up to my parents about what I was going through, they were patient, empathetic, understanding and knew that I clearly needed help. Fast forward to my 7th grade year. I was being bullied, which caused me to have possible depression. Even though I was never bullied in 5th grade, nor at any point in the past, my mental health went downhill once again. To me, it was almost like 5th grade, but worse. I felt like my genuine happiness was completely stripped from me again, because I often felt insecure and cried much more. It made me feel like a burden on my friends, my teachers, and even my own family. It took a while, but my mom was able to get me into counseling therapy. Her and I agreed that counseling was right for me. It enabled me to acquire effective coping mechanisms, when it comes to episodes of stress, anger, anxiety, and sadness. I was also taught how to gain more independence in my life. As of right now, I am so much happier. Of course, I still have occasional moments where I fall and feel bad, but in the end, I get back up. When I have tough moments that hurt me mentally, I cope with those feelings, by watching funny videos, watching travel videos since I'd like to travel, taking a hot bubble bath, and talking with my friends or family. One of my biggest aspirations is to major in psychology. That is a field that I am incredibly passionate about and have had my heart set on for over two years. To me, it is an interesting profession to pursue. It will give me a turn to advocate and help others with what they are going through, in hopes that they can fulfill as much of their lives as possible. Just a friendly reminder that you are worthy, you are strong, you are beautiful, you are loved, and you are NEVER alone! Everyone matters!

Recently, I have become increasingly interested in Japan. To break things down further, I have been intrigued by its culture, cuisine, language, attractions, and the country as a whole. Japan is one of my dream vacations, and I would love to travel there in the future. Therefore, I watch a lot of videos about the country and guide to travelling there. In relation, I have been watching videos from a traveler whose name is Mark Wiens. His videos hugely involve travelling to different places in the world and eating unique foods that they offer. Videos like those are so relaxing and insightful, especially after a long, overwhelming day. Sometimes while watching, I get the feeling that I am actually outside of the United States. It gives me amazing vibes. Another thing I do to practice self-care is aromatherapy. In fact, I got stress relief lotion, spray and body wash for Christmas from Bath and Body Works. Each of those products consist of natural, essential oils to help you relax. Just inhaling that special scent is a surefire way to take away feelings of stress and anxiety. I also enjoy taking hot, bubble baths. It gives me time to breathe, wind down and regroup. It is as if bubble baths have a magical touch. Taking care of your mental health is incredibly vital. It is utterly important to ensure that you are happy, have peace and are in an overall healthy state of mind. Everyone has different ways of coping with stressful events. My ways that I have listed distract me from the tough moments that I may face. I will continue following those habits, especially after a bad day.

One time at my youth group, a friend had told me that for the past few years, she has been dealing with anorexia nervosa, which is a type of eating disorder. Although I may not be able to fully understand what it is like, I could easily imagine how difficult it is. After some research, I have become more knowledgeable about eating disorders. To me, she looked like a normal-sized individual. However, I had to remember that just because someone does not appear to be dangerously thin, does not mean that they do not have an eating disorder. Some people can be overweight and have one, because anorexia is a mental thing. That is something that should be destigmatized. I empathize with others by first listening very intently to what someone is talking about. Then, I take a minute to put myself in their shoes and think about the heartache their circumstance has brought to them. Even if what I hear is not necessarily something that has happened to me before, I still make sure to take what they are saying seriously. When I can easily relate to someone, that is when I will explain that I know how it feels to be caught up in that particular situation. Either way, me staying empathetic is what reminds people that regardless of the obstacles you encounter, you are never alone. I also help others, especially my friend, to keep in mind that you should never be ashamed of your weaknesses and hardships you face. The truth is, it is not your fault, simply because you cannot always control it. I remember explicitly stating to my friend that what she has is just like having a cold. Whether if I understand a situation or not, I will always be empathetic.

We have the freedom of speech. We are entitled to have our own viewpoints. That means that we have been given the allowance to speak our minds. Self-advocacy is something that encourages me to stay committed to speaking my mind. Let's face it. Life and the world around me are not always going to adjust to my needs and circumstances. Therefore, I need to learn to adapt to as much as possible and speak up. I must be my own advocate, allow my heart to be my compass, and say what someone may need to hear. Just words themselves are enough to help you get out of a situation. Communication can truly go a long way. For example, if someone's acting manipulative and making me uncomfortable, I must announce my feelings. Even if who I am with does not see anything quote unquote, "wrong" with their actions whatsoever, I know I must not continue to allow them to treat me poorly. Your feelings matter so much, especially in weird situations. A personal experience of mine would be when I was responding to a discussion related to voting in my dual-enrollment sociology class. We had to write about our thoughts on voting. One person said that people should be forced to vote. I replied saying that I respectfully disagreed with them, and explained my reasons. In other words, I said that voting shouldn't be mandatory. I do my best to stand in see from each angle, understand where people are coming from, be open-minded, and educate myself first. Of course, I am incredibly careful with what I say. At the same time, I'm very thankful that in our country, we are given the right to have our own say. Therefore, I will not be afraid to speak for those who can't.

Confidence means having courage, stamina, and faith in yourself. It is your personal armor and superhero cape that we must wear to take bold risks. Essentially, confidence is morally about having a high self-esteem and feeling good about yourself. I am working on gaining more self-confidence by changing my mindset. If there is a difficult task I need to accomplish, I make sure to still have a good attitude. Instead of saying, "I cannot do this," I replace it with a phrase along the lines of, "I am not there yet, but I will get there in my own time. I just need to keep trying." Giving up and degrading yourself are not the answers. That only worsens situations, so positivity is key. Another thing I do is slowly inching myself out of my comfort zone. As said, we need to take some risks in our lives, to get a real taste of the world around us, and what is beyond our front door so-to-speak. For example, at two of my high school homecoming dances, there was a karaoke room. What you did was pick a song and basically sing it in front of everyone. Although I was extremely nervous both times, I made sure to stay calm, wear a smile, and overall have a good time. The moment the crowd clapped and cheered for me, I felt so uplifted. Tons of people told me how awesome I did singing. It gave me the feeling I was doing something right. In the end, I was utterly proud of myself and realized it was so worth it. I have my fair share of moments where I lack confidence and feel insecure. However, it encourages me to get back up and remember that we are capable of anything!

I recently started coming up with my very own Spanish dialect. From my understanding, a dialect is a form of speaking a language. For example, there's Mandarin and Cantonese. Those are the two main dialects of Chinese. My dad was born in Puerto Rico and lived there for some of his life. He's fluent in both Spanish and English. Although I'm not bilingual, I know a decent amount of Spanish, especially after taking it as an elective freshman and sophomore year. This year, I've started to come up with different ways to say certain Spanish words. The name for my dialect is, "The Jordanic Dialect." I told my dad, and he said I should write what I come up with in a journal. I agreed and started jotting stuff down. First, I start by writing my made-up translation and highlighting it blue. Next, I write down the English translation or a short definition, but I don't highlight that part. Then, I write down the original Spanish translation and highlight it pink. If I don't immediately know the original translation, I'll go on Google translate or ask my dad or someone fluent. Keeping it organized this way ensures I don't inadvertently confuse myself or others. An example of a Spanish word I made up is inglejente. It's pronounced ING-GLUH-HEN-TAY. The real Spanish word is Inglés, which most people know means English. I told my friends and family and they all found it funny and creative. That brings back memories to sophomore year. If during office hours I needed to go to my English class, I would say to my friends, "I'm going to inglejente. See you later!" Having your own language or dialect is an awesome thing. It may be out of the ordinary, but it's a creative way of communicating.

One of the most helpful study strategies for me would be the use of flash cards. How this works is I write the word on one side, and on the other side, I write the definition, meaning or explanation. From there, I think about the word based on the definition or vice versa. To me, it's a creative way to help you memorize important tools, especially for a quiz, test or exam. While in my lectures, I make sure to take neat, legible, and elaborate notes. That way, I can have something to refer to outside of class when a test is coming up. Anything that seems important for me to know I highlight, especially if it's something confusing. That tells me, "This is the part that's very important. Study it and make sure you know it." In addition, playing study games like kahoot is another insightful way to help me remember what I learned. It makes class so much more fun and entertaining, when it comes to review time. It encourages me to have a good time, but also take what I'm learning seriously. A study group is also something that helps me achieve academically. Being around people that are like-minded and genuinely care about their education just as much as I do helps me to stay successful. People that want to do well and meet their goals are the kind that I should stick with. I don't think I knew that there were multiple ways to study until I entered high school. Now that I do know, it's helped me to keep conveying essential habits like those. Studying can truly go a long way in your education.

The meaning of life has a very subjective connotation. In other words, everyone is entitled to have their own definition. To me, life means getting a chance on this planet and becoming the most of who you want to become. Even at a young age, I realized that life is too short and you only live once. Therefore, I always make sure to enjoy all the bits and pieces of what life has to offer. The little things can cost so much, which is why it's important to make every second embraceable. I'm a Christian, so every day, I thank God for making me up in the morning, giving me food to eat, serving others, and overall keeping my loved ones and I in the best place possible. You only get one chance. It's about slowing down, soaking in every moment, analyzing the aspects and never taking anything for granted. In addition to that, life is also about living your dream and having goals. My biggest ambition is pursuing a major in psychology as well as a minor in biblical studies. I know it's going to take a lot of hard work and dedication to achieve that goal. That's why I must stay focused, even when I'm genuinely tired of it, and just keep fighting for what I want. I am currently a senior and dual-enrolled with Daytona State College. After the spring semester, I will hopefully be graduating high school with an associates degree. That will be my first step to reaching my ambition, yet one of the biggest steps. From that point forward, I will continue to try hard, keep my head up, and reach out for support when I need to. A long road means so much learning and many opportunities that are awaiting my reach!

I am committed to loving selflessly, because there are people that are not as fortunate in life as me. Being greedy is an action I avoid. Instead, I put others before myself and care for those that are genuinely in need. For example, my friend Sophia and I made plans to go to the football game. She mentioned that since she was a part of the cross country team, she could get in for free. However, when I was about to purchase my ticket, we were informed that from that point on, she had to pay, even though she technically played a sport. She didn't have money, which would've hindered her from being let in. I on the other hand had plenty of cash, so I decided to graciously pay for a ticket just for her. I wanted her to enjoy the game alongside me, so I was thankful that I was able to get her in. That right there is what a selfless act looks like. Another thing I did was provide food for a poor man. My mom and I were about to enter the Taco Bell drive thru, and we could immediately tell that the guy on the side of the street was poor. He looked frail, gloomy and depressed. We decided to give half of our meal to the guy. I saw his eyes light up and his frown turn into an enormous smile. Knowing he was uplifted had me feeling uplifted. This reminded me that we rise by lifting others. If I were given the choice between wealth or giving for others, I would choose their wealth and safety over my own wealth and safety. Everyone deserves to live the best, fulfilling life possible. Being selfless has taught me to never take anything for granted.

When I was in 5th grade, I was suffering from incredibly intense anxiety. It was on an almost daily basis that I experienced anxiety. My definition of anxiety is a ticking bomb counting down the minutes, until it's time for darkness to get underneath my skin and fill me up from head to toe. It made me lose interest in things I previously enjoyed. I would not want to go out to eat, attend a party, have a sleepover, nor do things that involved getting out of the house, unless if there was a day I was genuinely happy, which was very rare. On the outside, I was happy-go-lucky, but deep down inside, I was fighting an internal battle. It not only affected me emotionally and mentally, but also physically. I often went to bed with pain and woke up with pain. With that being said, I often felt sick, hardly ever hungry, low on energy, which resulted in me losing a lot of weight. It eventually became noticeable to my family, which had them worried. I came to the realization that I could not continue to try to handle it all on my own, because it became abundantly clear to them that I was struggling. Therefore, I explained what I was going through to my parents. Although it was difficult at first, knowing my parents understood my circumstances gave me peace. Almost immediately when I entered 7th grade, I was being bullied. That unfortunately also took a toll on my mental health. This time, I was going through a possible case of depression. There were times I was afraid to go to school, because I had trust issues. It made me feel like a burden on my friends, teachers and even my own family. I cried nearly every day, became envious, and felt as if I belonged to a different world. It felt equivalent to 5th grade, but worse. After a lot of research and time, I was able to get myself into counseling therapy. It enabled me to acquire more effective coping mechanisms for episodes of sadness and anxiety. I also gained a lot of independence and confidence in myself. I still have my moments and fall down here and there, but then next thing you know I get right back up. For over two years, I have had my heart set on psychology. I want to be able to advocate for others, especially those going through hard times. Mental health is vital, so it's super important to be educated, especially in the world we currently live in. I value mental health so much and want the best for others. My experience has helped me to easily put myself in someone else's shoes and be empathetic. Unequivocally, there are so many takeaways I received from this experience. One of the biggest things I've learned is that you are so much more than your mental health difficulties and what people may say about you. It is okay to not be okay. Never feel ashamed of what you're going through. Life gives you curveballs, but there's so much to learn from them. Mental health problems are not always in our control. It's just like having a cold, so the truth is you can't help it. Another major key is that you are never alone. No matter what obstacles you face, you will never be the only one. You are included, you are worthy, you are loved, you are strong, and you are beautiful!

First of all, I always try to keep in touch with my family, friends and loved ones as much as possible. That would mean communication via social media, text, phone call or video call. Anytime I can't see them face-to-face, I know that doesn't mean that I can't ever talk to them. Therefore, I value maintaining a good connection by checking in every day, even if it's just a "Hi how are you?" Another thing I do is give advice. Anytime someone I know is having a tough time or simply just wants my opinion and feedback on something, I'm always there with open ears and with the words I need to say. Even if I'm having a hard time myself, I still do my best to be uplifting, empathetic, and understanding. Taking a second to put myself in someone else's shoes and empathize with them I know is a surefire way to remind them that they're not alone. When it comes to birthdays and holidays, I enjoy giving gifts. To me, presents can easily give people feelings that they're loved and deserving of what they get. Being the life of the party and having fun with others can surely create happiness and feelings of inclusion.

As a Christian, I've always been taught to love selflessly and never take anything for granted. One time, my mom and I were getting Taco Bell for lunch, and just before we approached the drive thru, I saw at the corner of my eye a homeless man on the side of the street. He was holding a sign that said something along the lines of, "I am homeless. Anything helps." He looked frail, starved, and scared, as if darkness was about to swallow him whole. The moment we noticed it, our hearts were broken. Both of us felt a strong urge to help him. When we were in line, I told my mom that we should add a couple tacos to our order for the man. She agreed and we did so. Before we drove out of the plaza, we stopped and handed the man his food. He immediately smiled at us and said thank you. In an example like this, giving is so important, especially to others in need. I value selflessness so much, because just a random act of kindness can greatly influence someone's life. Therefore, I give back by donating items I no longer need or want, donating money to services that are struggling, and overall putting people before myself. If I were given the choice between wealth or protecting and providing for friends, family, the poor and people around me, I would choose their wealth and safety over my own wealth and safety. Of course I know I must do what's best for myself. At the same time, it's vital to look out for others and help them when they need it. With that being said, I will continue to always stay thankful for what I have in my life, even the little things!

When I was in the 5th grade, I had very bad anxiety. It came nearly everyday and it often was an interference on my life. I cried almost every day and lost interest in activities I previously enjoyed. I would not want to go out to eat, go to parties, go to a sleepover, or do anything fun. When I did go out, I was often faking a smile, simply because I was afraid of people worrying about me, which would make things even more anxiety-inducing. On the outside, I was a happy-go-lucky girl, but on the inside, I was fighting an internal battle. My anxiety hurt me not just mentally and emotionally, but also physically. It made me often feel sick, tired, low on energy and hardly ever hungry. As a result, I lost a lot of weight and wasn't growing. My parents were worried, because it became abundantly clear to them that I was struggling. That's when I realized that I needed to speak up and tell them what was wrong. I could not continue to handle it on my own. Although I was afraid at first, I felt relieved knowing my parents understood and were willing to help. Fast forward to 7th grade. I was being bullied. That also caused me to cry nearly every day and feel bad about myself. I felt like a burden on my friends, teachers and even my own family. This time, I was going through possible depression. I was at my lowest when very few people knew. It took a while, but I got myself into counseling therapy. It helped me acquire more effective coping mechanisms for episodes of anxiety and sadness. Seeking therapy was one of the best decisions I've ever made, because it also helped me gain more independence. As of right now, I'm much happier. I still have my moments and fall down here and there, but I get right back up. My experiences have helped me to learn that life gives you curveballs for a reason. There's so much to learn through the hardships you face. In addition, I've been taught to never feel ashamed of your struggles. I am never afraid to wear my heart on my sleeve. Mental health problems are not always in our control. It's just like having a cold. Therefore, the truth is you can't help it. I have been inspired to easily relate to others who are struggling. It enables me to put myself in someone else's shoes, be empathetic, educated and remind them that they're not alone in their circumstances. For over 2 years, I've had my heart set on psychology. I want to use my experience to help others in their lives. Psychology is such an interesting field and something to consider. It is now my turn to be an advocate and spread the word! My friendly reminder is you are not alone, you are determined, you are beautiful, and you are loved!

One of the things I do to keep a growth mindset is by setting S.M.A.R.T goals. This means I ask myself if my goal is specific, measurable, attainable, realistic and time-bound. Setting goals for yourself is great, but I've learned that you should analyze your goal to ensure that it's reachable and right for you. Of course goals are not always super easy to reach, so you must be prepared for obstacles you may face along the way. With that being said, another thing I've realized is that it's only up to YOU if YOU want to reach a certain goal. It's about being truly committed and believing in yourself. All it takes is to stay focused, even if you're genuinely tired of it, and just keep fighting for what you want. Another thing I find that helps me to keep a growth mindset is having a good attitude. Instead of getting hard on myself and saying, "I can't do it," I tell myself, "I am not there yet, but I will get there when I get there." Trying something new is going to be hard at first, but as you go, it'll slowly get easier. I remind myself to keep trying and to not give up. Bottom line is, giving up is not the answer. It's better to stay optimistic, even if you're struggling than to let the negativity get the best of you. I also make sure to remind myself that I am strong, I am capable, and that I can do anything in life, as long as I put my mind and potential to it. Self-love and positivity is so important for your mental well-being. I may fall at times and have moments, but in the end, I get right back up, and I work even harder.

Being independent means taking care of yourself, navigating your life, and working through daily aspects on your own. Independence is something I value, strive for everyday, and find to be very important. Life and the world around me are not always going to adjust to my needs. I need to learn to adapt to as much as possible. This year, a lot of great changes have been made for me, and in my opinion, they've resulted in increased independence. I turned 18 in February, got my license in May, and started taking my dual-enrollment college classes on campus. Those three major steps that I have taken have been contributing factors to my independence. The impact it's had on me is that it's enabled me to rely on myself more. Educating myself on life has helped me to become more knowledgeable and dependable. At the same time, I'm never afraid to ask for help. The key to remember is nobody's perfect. Therefore, I'm not going to understand everything that happens. The only way for me to learn that way is to get the help I may need. Everyday I do what I can to become more and more independent. I'm about to graduate high school and go to college. That requires a lot of independence, so I will continue to prepare for my upcoming chapters!

If I had to think of one thing that I find to be loveable about myself, it would be my modesty, especially since I'm a Christian. Now, I will explain what I mean by that, because modesty can have several meanings. I'm a very classy person when it comes to dressing up. I'm the kind that covers up, dresses casual, and ensures that what I'm wearing is appropriate. It's not just because I'm a self-conscious individual. It's because I hugely value privacy, modesty, and appropriateness. Occasionally, I like to go somewhat out of my comfort zone, but at the same time, I don't just show off. With that being said, I'd say that I'm also modest in the way that I speak. I never say curse words and I do my best not to be mean. I make sure to think before I speak or do anything. Back in elementary school, we used T.H.I.N.K as a nuemonic device. I ask myself: Is it True? Is it Helpful? Is it Inspring? Is it Necessary? Is it Kind? It's better to analyze your words and actions than to be impulsive and let someone get hurt. Another thing is when I'm talking to an adult, and am asked a yes or no question, I reply with yes ma'am/no ma'am, or yes sir/no sir. Being formal is hugely involved with being modest. To sum it up, I value my modesty so much, and will continue it throughout my life. I will make sure to treat people with respect.

I value patience so much in life. One reason why is because it enables me to analyze situations and have stable mentality through them. I find that patience keeps you from being impulsive. It's better to reach deep inside and analyze the aspects in life, than to act too quick and inadvertently say/do something out of place without thinking. Losing your patience is only going to make a situation worse. You must try to maintain self control as much as possible. Even if my blood is boiling in a situation, I do my best to control that feeling. I learned that if you let your feelings get the best of you, chances are your feelings could get inflicted on someone else. Even when having a quote unquote "moment," calmly waiting for what's yet to come is the right demeanor. To me, people that lose their patience end up treating others poorly. Therefore, my overall reasoning for patience being important is because you can't expect things to happen at the exact times, and it can greatly influence your actions.

I stay true to myself in my daily life by never feel ashamed of spreading the gospel. It's very sad nowadays that Christian's face persecution and discrimination. People think that they should be raised a certain way, instead of putting themselves in their shoes and realizing that even though they may have a different lifestyle, they need to think about how they would feel if they were to be treated poorly. God is so much greater than everything, including the selfishness in our society. Therefore, I know that living my passion for God, spreading his word, and continuing to pray and enable a closer relationship with him does show that I'm doing what I can to stay true to myself. It's simply because I cannot let what people may think or say hold me back from doing what I love. I am never ashamed of being God's child and never will be.

If I had to think of one experience that has shaped a part of who I am today, as weird as it may sound, it would have to be getting bullied in dance. It was 7th grade when people were belitting, teasing, and ridiculing me. I came across what I would call, two-faced people. When I'd speak to someone face-to-face, they'd act like an angel and say super kind things to me. However, when I'd walk past them, I'd overhear them saying nasty things about me. People would say something along the lines of, "Jordan can't dance," or, "Nobody wants to work with her." It made me very infuriated, angry, and upset that I cried nearly everyday. It was almost if darkness was swallowing me whole, thus causing my happiness to be completely stripped from me. Thankfully the bullying has stopped since then. Although it was a very tough time for me, it taught me what a true friend is versus what an untrue friend is. True friends are apologetic if they hurt your feelings by accident. If they continue to talk behind your back, be mean and feel a little proud of it, that's not a good sign. In other words, that is someone who truly doesn't care about their intentions. You do not want to surround yourself by people like that. In the end, the hardship I went through has made me a stronger person. I often wanted to try to fit in, because of it, but now I've learned to just be myself. I know that I am already included, so I should not make an attempt to be anyone else. Never be ashamed of yourself and do not let people walk over you. You are so much more than the bullies out in the world.

If I could think of someone from history that I admire, it would be Mahatma Ghandi. That is because one of my favorite quotes comes from him, and unequivocally, it has taught me so much about life. It says, "Be the change you want to see in the world." This has reminded me that if we want to see a change, especially in an unprecedented time that we're currently living in, it starts with us. We as human beings are so much more capable than we think in that matter. We can influence so much from the bottom of our hearts. Another thing I learned from that quote is that aside from thinking big, we should never forget to also think small. That is because just the smallest deeds in life can truly continue to a strong foundation. When it comes to being the change, we must first think small. Taking simple steps is what will help us to get to the change we want/need to see. To sum it up, the change we make starts with us!

As obvious as it is, the biggest problem that the world is currently facing would be the covid-19 pandemic. It's scary and devastating to know that people are dying everyday from complications. Even those that are young and healthy are still having their lives taken, which makes matters worse. However, one thing we can do to solve this problem would be to make masks a requirement for people everywhere they go. Masks truly do make a difference in slowing the spread. They protect ourselves and other people. Just something small like that can truly go a long way. When people are not wearing their masks, the spread of the virus is ten times more guaranteed. On top of that, there is a variant of the virus, plus some more to come if masks aren't being cared for. Masks really do save lives. A mask worn equals a life saved.