Although I have not experienced a chronic health condition, I have struggled with mental health issues. The most traumatizing event of my life occurred during the fall semester of my senior year. I was physically assaulted, sustaining significant injuries. A severe concussion persisted with symptoms occurring for almost seven months. Emotional trauma and PTSD continue to be issues I am learning to overcome. Due to the extent of my recovery, I was homeschooled for several months and unable to attend school in person. My mother was required to take a leave of absence from her employment so that she could be home to support both my medical and educational needs. A disruption in my ability to participate in numerous clubs and extracurricular activities occurred. I missed assemblies and dance performances, senior events, and homecoming dances passed by. During these months, I endured physical and emotional hardship, isolation, vulnerability, and betrayal. Although this difficult time created unimaginable obstacles, it also revealed my capabilities. My perspective on life changed dramatically after this experience. Initially, I went silent, shutting myself off from the rest of the world. It became important for me to find happiness within myself, and not rely on others. This experience taught me that I am strong, resilient, and capable of whatever I put my mind to. Identifying what brings me joy has provided great healing power. For example, dance is my creative outlet allowing me to feel free. Recognizing the importance of creating boundaries with technology (social media) has reduced unnecessary anxiety. This has changed my mindset because I use this valuable time to support a healthy body and mind. Self-compassion and treating myself with respect have positively impacted my emotional health. I have so much support from family and friends. These are the relationships that I value most. It is a priority to maintain connections with people whom I trust. Continuing to do what makes me happy will ensure ongoing personal growth. Experiencing this dark time encouraged me to look for the positive. This could have easily changed the course of my path to success. Losing control of so many parts of my life made giving up seem like the easy option. Instead of dwelling on the negative, I chose to look forward, persevere, and learn from this experience. This event was life-changing, but an unfortunate event has become a life lesson. My journey has empowered me to seek a psychology degree at Gonzaga University. I am encouraged to learn more about mental health, as it is such an important and rising issue. I will utilize my education to make positive changes to this healthcare system while contributing to the emotional well-being of many. My outlook on life has certainly been affected by the challenges I’ve endured. I have become more confident and courageous, able to face my fears. Authenticity is important to me and I strive to be genuine and sincere in my actions and words. I approach life with optimism, persistence, and adaptability. Through all experiences, I have an insatiable desire to find the good in everything. Thank you for considering me for this scholarship to honor the memory of Jonathan Tang.

The most traumatizing event of my life occurred during the fall semester of my senior year.  I was physically assaulted by a classmate, sustaining significant injuries.  Many peers stood by, recording, laughing, and doing nothing to help me.  A severe concussion persisted with symptoms occurring for almost seven months.  Emotional trauma and PTSD continue to be issues I am learning to overcome.  My recovery included EMDR therapy (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing), cognitive and physical therapy, and treatment for depression and anxiety.  Due to the extent of my recovery, I was homeschooled for several months and unable to attend school in person.  Online learning was a great challenge for me.  My symptoms significantly limited my screen time ability, and I could only complete a limited number of assignments each day.  My mother was required to take a leave of absence from her employment so that she could be home to support both my medical and educational needs.  A disruption in my ability to participate in numerous clubs and extracurricular activities occurred.  I missed assemblies and dance performances, senior events, and homecoming dances passed by.        During these months, I endured physical and emotional hardship, isolation, vulnerability, and betrayal - all leading me toward a very dark path.  I began struggling immensely with mental health issues and self-worth.  Somehow, I believed that I possibly deserved what had happened to me.  It resulted in a complete shutdown. There was a constant battle in my mind, and I continuously questioned how and why something like this could happen.  There was confusion and fear of what the future held and uncertainty as to whether I would fully recover.   Initially, I allowed this extreme bullying and harassment to shut me out from the rest of the world.  As time passed, with a lot of hard work, I slowly began to find myself again.  I did not allow this experience to define who I was.  Through therapy and the support of my family, I learned that I was enough.  Most importantly, I realized I did not deserve what happened to me.  This life-altering event and losing control, made giving up seem like the easy option.  Although this difficult time created unimaginable obstacles, it also revealed my capabilities.   Instead of dwelling on the past, I chose to move forward and take what happened to me as a learning experience.  I gained the courage to return to school, facing those who hurt me, and finished my senior year off strong.  This was simply a small bump in the long road of success ahead of me.  I became so driven by the idea of becoming a better person.  What others thought or said about me was no longer a concern.  Spreading kindness to everyone became important, even to those I believed didn’t deserve it. Through a bright smile and a positive attitude, I showed them that they did not defeat me, but only made me stronger.   I began journaling every night about what I was grateful for.  My sister encouraged me to strengthen my relationship with God.  I gained a new faith and believe he will help lead the way. My empathy for others became stronger with a willingness to help those in need.   I have a good understanding and appreciation for others' feelings.  More importantly, I can forgive.  I am proud of this better version of myself.  Everything happens for a reason, and one of the many things I’m grateful for is having the opportunity to grow and recognize my strength.

Throughout school, science has always intrigued me. In high school, I had the opportunity to enroll in a college-level Bioscience Technology class, and an International Baccalaureate course for Environmental Systems and Societies. These classes inspired and engaged me in the areas of scientific inquiry and environmental systems. Little did I know that personal experiences during my senior year would guide my curiosity toward the science of human health. A critical issue in today’s society is overcoming the many challenges and obstacles of mental health. I quickly learned about the stigma associated with mental illness. When my mental health journey began, we sought assistance from a society with a very broken system. Although people are generally becoming more accepting, their perception is still viewed differently than that of other physical illnesses. Mental illness affects our brains. I believe that this is as much of an illness as a physical injury to the heart or kidney. The brain is complex, yet fascinating. As I began to search out college and career choices, my future aspirations became clear to me. In the fall, at Gonzaga University, I will major in psychology with a minor in dance. I will collaborate art and science through dance movement therapy. Integrating my passion for dance into science encompasses the ideal career to pursue my goals. Science and the performing arts are actually quite similar. They both allow creativity and imagination while providing a better understanding of the world around us. As a dance movement therapist, I will treat both physical and emotional health issues. This will create new opportunities for people to heal, improve communication, and therapeutically develop a better awareness of their bodies and minds through dance. I will utilize my education to make positive changes to this healthcare system while supporting the emotional well-being of many. I hope to contribute to advancements in technology and medicine in the field of mental health. There is a need for change. There cannot be a divide between the mind and the body. If there is a continued lack of education and awareness, there will always be misperceptions about mental health. Pursuing an education in science will provide me with these skills to help others. Scholarship funding will support me in contributing to important health science advancements. It will not solely assist me but will make it possible for me to provide attainable services and an improved quality of life for many people. I will further extend my knowledge within my community and promote this integration of science and movement. Your consideration and investment in my future will assist me in making a difference and continuing my personal journey to pursue my dreams in a STEM career.

Art and science have been intertwined in my life for as long as I can remember.  When I was young, I would spend my summer days creating volcano explosions, launching rockets, polishing rocks, and then endless hours of leaping and twirling in dance classes.  As I grew older, dance became my passion.  I was part of a competitive team and also participated as a member of my high school pomline.  Science continued to intrigue me.  I had the opportunity to enroll in a college-level Bioscience Technology class and an International Baccalaureate course for Environmental Systems and Societies.  These classes inspired and engaged me in the areas of scientific inquiry and environmental systems. After all these years, to my great surprise, these two worlds merged and guided my curiosity toward the science of human health and movement.  My personal experiences in the area of mental health have guided me toward my current college and career choices.  I will double major in psychology and dance at Gonzaga University in the fall. A critical issue in today’s society is overcoming the many challenges and obstacles of mental health. I will utilize my education to make positive changes to this healthcare system. My hope is to contribute to advancements in technology and medicine in the mental health field.   There should no longer be a divide between the mind and the body. My future aspirations are to collaborate art and science through dance movement therapy.  Integrating my passion for dance into science encompasses the ideal career to pursue my goals. Science and the performing arts are actually quite similar.  They both allow creativity and imagination while providing a better understanding of the world around us. As a dance movement therapist, I will treat both physical and emotional health issues. This will create new opportunities for people to heal, improve communication, and therapeutically develop a better awareness of their bodies and minds through dance.   Scholarship funding will support me in contributing to critical health science advancements.  It will not solely assist me but will make it possible for me to provide attainable services and an improved quality of life for many people.  I will further extend my knowledge within my community and promote the well-being of many.  Your consideration and investment in my future will assist me in making a difference. It will allow me to continue my personal journey to pursue my dreams in a STEM career while integrating my passion for the performing arts.

The most traumatizing event of my life occurred during the fall semester of my senior year. I was physically assaulted, sustaining significant injuries. A severe concussion persisted with symptoms occurring for almost seven months. Emotional trauma and PTSD continue to be issues I am learning to overcome. My recovery included EMDR therapy (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing), cognitive and physical therapy, and treatment for depression and anxiety. Due to the extent of my recovery, I was homeschooled for several months and unable to attend school in person. Online learning was a great challenge for me. My symptoms significantly limited my screen time ability, and I could complete only a limited number of assignments each day. My mother was required to take a leave of absence from her employment so that she could be home to support both my medical and educational needs. A disruption in my ability to participate in numerous clubs and extracurricular activities occurred. I missed assemblies and dance performances, senior events, and homecoming dances passed by. After this incident, I could not continue my vigorous AP and IB courses online. I needed to drop all my honors classes and enroll in on-level academic courses. In addition to these school barriers, there were numerous deadlines for college applications and essays. During these months, I endured physical and emotional hardship, isolation, vulnerability, and betrayal. Although this difficult time created unimaginable obstacles, it also revealed my capabilities. Education has always been an essential aspect of my life. My hard work and determination resulted in a strong GPA and the top 10% of my class entering my senior year of high school. These limitations for educational achievements could have easily changed the course of my path to success. Losing control of so many parts of my life made giving up seem like the easy option. Instead of dwelling on the negative, I chose to look forward, persevere, and learn from this experience. I remained focused on my future. My priorities towards academics and my commitment to my education continue to drive me to success. I now choose personal growth while navigating these circumstances. Unfortunate events have become my life lessons. This journey has empowered me to seek a psychology degree at Gonzaga University. I am encouraged to learn more about mental health, as it is such an important and rising issue. This past year, I was introduced to this very broken system. I will utilize my education to make positive changes to this healthcare system while contributing to the emotional well-being of many. I acquired the strength and courage to persist despite academic challenges. Rising above adversity was possible through the support of family, friends, teachers, and therapists. Although the “puzzle” pieces of my life felt like they were falling apart, they were actually coming together. This experience has created a foundation for me to learn the importance of overcoming misfortune to achieve emotional and educational success.

As a student, I have struggled immensely with mental health. Before high school, I had no personal experiences with mental health issues. During the COVID-19 pandemic, I began to feel isolated and became withdrawn. I was always an outgoing and very social person. Suddenly, school became a challenge for me and lack of motivation became an issue. My focus was nearly impossible for academics, when previously I had been a strong student with all A’s. My mental health journey began here, when we sought assistance from a society with a very broken system. Things progressed, as we waited to be seen by medical professionals. I began to feel like I had no purpose and as if life wasn’t worth living anymore. Later, I was evaluated by a neuropsychologist and given the diagnosis of Major Depressive Disorder and Anxiety. Through all of this, even though people are generally becoming more accepting of mental health problems, I’ve learned that their perception is still viewed differently than that of other physical illnesses. Mental illness affects our brain. I believe that this is as much of an illness as a physical injury to the heart or kidney. When the brain has physical changes, it affects every other part of the human body. Not only is mood affected, but the ability to think clearly, sleep well, and participate fully in normal activities of daily living is also impacted. As a dedicated student, this became a significant hindrance. Teachers and parents need to be aware of the severity and we need to make changes to help those who are affected by mental illness. This issue is so important to me because I don’t want anyone to feel the type of pain, fear and hopelessness that I did. In high school I reached out to a counselor and we started a mental health club at our school to help spread awareness. This club made students feel safe and less alone. In my personal life, I continuously advocate for self care. Identifying what brings me joy has provided great healing power. In addition, recognizing the importance of creating boundaries with technology (social media) has also greatly reduced unnecessary anxiety. This has changed my entire mindset because I now utilize this valuable time to support a healthy body and mind. I have also used social media to engage with my peers and bring attention to mental health issues. This journey, although challenging, has empowered me to seek out a degree in psychology at Gonzaga University. I am encouraged to learn more about mental health, as it is such a serious and rising issue. In the future, I hope to make positive changes to this healthcare system, as well as be someone who people can trust, while helping them to find hope in their journey. There is a need for change. There cannot be a divide between the mind and body. If there is a lack of education and awareness, there will always be misperceptions about mental health. I’ll support programs and policies that will place mental health as a priority in all communities. Care could be available in schools at a young age, not just in doctors’ offices. Pathways need to be easily identified and accessible to all. I want to build better connections so that people know how and where to obtain appropriate resources. My goals are to eliminate stigmas and myths about mental health. By expanding my knowledge and skills in psychology, it will enable me to advocate for mental health, raise awareness and create positive change.

Success is defined as “the accomplishment of an aim or purpose”. However, I believe true success is the process of exploring happiness. The act of success can last just a simple moment or even a lifetime. It is whatever you choose to make of this process.  Learning, reflecting, and growing through the challenges presented brings us fulfillment. Success is a journey and it doesn’t just come easily. Finding success requires persistence and dedication, but if you aren’t happy with the outcome, what is the true purpose? To me, finding joy at the end of the exploration is the greatest form of success.      Setting goals and ultimately reaching them provides a sense of satisfaction, but that satisfaction may not last forever or sustain itself.  Our goals change and we explore new purposes throughout our lives. When we feel fulfilled with the ways we are living our lives, that is the definition of success. Recognizing our mistakes and facing our fears along the way will bring us one step closer to accomplishing joy. Successes can be big or they may be small. For some people, just getting out of bed in the morning is their version of success. Its definition is different for all of us. Nobody should define what it looks like for someone else. When we determine our own meaning of success it allows us to better align our values and passions with our lives. The process and act of working towards happiness and satisfaction is what I define as success.        In the fall of 2024, I plan to complete a double major in both dance and psychology. Scholarships will greatly impact my career as a student because they ensure a quality education at Gonzaga University. This strong education will provide me with the opportunity to grow intellectually, professionally, and personally. Circumstances and challenges that I've encountered have taught me perseverance and resilience. My experiences in the area of mental health have guided me toward my current college and career choices. With scholarships that I hope to receive, I can complete my education and training to become a clinical psychologist.        I plan to become successful in my career, but I also want to love what I choose to do with my life. If I’m not happy, I wouldn’t consider that a successful life. As a psychology major, I am choosing to help others. Ensuring the happiness of others and guiding them towards their success is important to me. My education will enable me to contribute positive changes to the healthcare system, as well as help others receive necessary treatment and care. I will further extend this knowledge within my community. Scholarship funding will support me while pursuing this path. It will not solely assist me, but it will make it possible for me to provide attainable services and an improved quality of life for many people. Your consideration and investment in my future will assist me in making a difference and continuing my personal journey of success. If I am content with who I am and with the contributions that I can make to society, I will truly feel successful!

Before high school, I had no personal experiences with mental health issues. During the COVID-19 pandemic, I began to feel isolated and became withdrawn. This was not a feeling that I had been accustomed to. I was always an outgoing and very social person. It was clear to me that something was very different, but I was still unsure of the severity. Suddenly, school became a challenge for me, and lack of motivation became an issue. My focus was nearly impossible for academics, when previously I had been a strong student with all A’s. My mental health journey began here, when we sought assistance from a society with a very broken system. Finally, I was evaluated by a neuropsychologist and given the diagnosis of Major Depressive Disorder and Anxiety. I began therapy sessions and eventually met with a psychiatrist so that I could begin taking medication. Learning to protect my mental health has become a priority in my life. One of the most helpful practices has been daily journaling. I have found it beneficial to acknowledge five things that I’m grateful for every day. Identifying what brings me joy has provided great healing power. For example, dance is my creative outlet and allows me to feel free. Exercise and a healthy diet have maximized my well-being. Good sleep habits improve my concentration and mood. It is important to recognize when I need mental breaks and to practice activities of mindfulness. Self-compassion and treating myself with respect has positively impacted my body and soul. I’ve learned that being in nature and dedicating time to the environment enhances positivity. In the pressures of today’s society, it is critical to recognize the stressors in your life and implement routines and strategies to support a healthy body and mind. We all need to create an effective balance in our lives by taking care of ourselves. Building these healthy habits is a continuous process in my mental health journey. In the future I hope to make positive changes to this healthcare system, as well as be someone who people can trust, while helping them to find hope in their journey. As I began to search out college and career choices, it became clear to me that this experience actually helped me to determine my future aspirations. I now know that I would like to major in psychology. There is a need for change. There cannot be a divide between the mind and the body. If there is a lack of education and awareness, there will always be misperceptions about mental health. Programs and policies need to place mental health as a priority in all communities. Care could be available in schools at a young age, not just in doctors’ offices. Personally, when my family and I began this journey, there was a critical moment when I needed immediate attention and support. Pathways need to be easily identified and accessible to all. My goal is to offer them a safe place to open up about their problems and to assist them to overcome these battles in life. I truly believe that helping people is what I am meant to do. My role will be to teach them how to navigate through the turmoil and to find the light that shines within themselves.

Before high school, I had no personal experiences with mental health issues. During the COVID-19 pandemic, I felt isolated and became withdrawn. This was not a feeling that I was accustomed to. I had always been an outgoing and very social person. It was clear to me that something was very different. I was diagnosed with Depressive Disorder and anxiety. My mental health journey began here. School became a challenge for me, and lack of motivation was an issue. My focus was nearly impossible for academics, when previously I was a strong student with all A’s. Quickly I realized that communication was critical and should be prioritized for mental wellness. I was grateful for many teachers that I could confide in and trust. They were compassionate, they listened, and they didn’t judge me. My parents were also understanding and supportive. Finding people that will listen to your struggles will allow healing and growth. Students need to recognize how important professional counseling is to successfully navigate emotional health. Not only was my mental health affecting my academics, but it also impacted my social relationships. I was judged frequently and told I was “overreacting”. I began to realize who my true friends were. It became a priority for me to maintain connections with people whom I trusted and those with positive energy that recharged me. When I eliminated the stressors or potential negativity around me, it quickly improved my mood and energy. Identifying boundaries with people and technology (social media) has helped reduce unnecessary anxiety. Learning to protect my mental health has become a priority in my life. One of the most helpful practices has been daily journaling. I have found it beneficial to acknowledge five things that I’m grateful for every day. Identifying what brings me joy has provided great healing power. For example, dance is my creative outlet and allows me to feel free. Exercise and a healthy diet have maximized my well-being. Good sleep habits improve my concentration and mood. It is important to recognize when I need mental breaks and to practice activities of mindfulness. Self-compassion and treating myself with respect has positively impacted my body and soul. I’ve learned that being in nature and dedicating time to the environment enhances positivity. In the pressures of today’s society, it is critical to recognize the stressors in your life and implement routines and strategies to support a healthy body and mind. We all need to create an effective balance in our lives by taking care of ourselves. Building these healthy habits is a continuous process in my mental health journey.

My name is Kasey Robertson and I was born and raised in Tucson, Arizona. I am currently a senior in high school and I enjoy my job at a preschool. Working with children brings me great joy and satisfaction. It allows me to be creative and provides opportunities to make a difference in childrens’ lives. In addition to this, I spend most of my free time dancing. Dance is my passion, and it has been an important part of my life since I was three years old. Throughout high school I was an active member of the Varsity Pomline, as well as the Performance Dance team. I currently serve as the president for the Dance Club. As a member of the Link Crew leadership program, I provided mentoring experiences for students. I am also an active member of the Interact Rotary Club and the National Honor Society, enabling me to participate in numerous community and school volunteer activities. I am passionate about being a good person in my community and strive to be the best "me" that I can be. I would describe myself as loyal, compassionate, determined and responsible. I value a strong sense of family and relationships. What I have learned is that no matter how difficult life can be, it is always possible to find happiness and success with supportive people, as well as with hard work! From a very young age, I knew I wanted to help people. As I began to search out college and career choices, it became clear to me that my personal experiences guided me toward my future aspirations. I know what it’s like to feel lost and without a purpose. I choose to be someone who people can trust, while guiding them to find hope on their journey. My future plan is to become a clinical psychologist. When my personal mental health journey began, my family and I began to seek assistance from a society with a very broken system. I quickly learned about the stigma associated with mental illness. I realized that communication and awareness were critical with issues regarding mental health and my well being. Even though people are generally becoming more accepting of mental health problems, I’ve learned that their perception is still viewed differently than that of other physical illnesses. Mental illness affects our brain. I believe that this is as much of an illness as a physical injury to the heart or kidney. When the brain has physical changes, it affects every other part of the human body. Not only is mood affected, but the ability to think clearly, sleep well, and participate fully in normal activities of daily living is also impacted. There cannot be a divide between the mind and the body. These critical changes in awareness are the reasons why I choose to pursue a career in the mental health field. Scholarships will greatly impact my career as a student because they ensure a quality education. A strong education will provide me with the opportunity to grow intellectually, professionally, and personally. With scholarships that I hope to receive, I can complete my education and training to become a clinical psychologist. My education will enable me to contribute positive changes to the healthcare system, as well as help others receive necessary treatment and care. Scholarship funding will support me while pursuing this path. It will not solely assist me, but it will make it possible for me to provide attainable services and an improved quality of life for many people. Your consideration and investment in my future will assist me in making a difference.

Before high school, I had no personal experiences with mental health issues. During the COVID-19 pandemic, I felt isolated and became withdrawn. This was not a feeling that I was accustomed to. I had always been an outgoing and very social person. It was clear to me that something was very different. I was diagnosed with Depressive Disorder and anxiety. My mental health journey began here. During this dark time in my life, I didn’t believe that I could ever find happiness again. It was through this experience that I realized I could not rely on others for my personal happiness. It became important to me to find happiness within myself. Overcoming this difficult time in my life taught me that I am strong, resilient and capable of whatever I put my mind to. Even when it felt like nothing mattered, I learned to find light in the darkness. Identifying what brings me joy has provided great healing power. For example, dance is my creative outlet which allows me to feel free. Recognizing the importance of creating boundaries with technology (social media) has reduced unnecessary anxiety. This has changed my entire mindset because I use this valuable time to support a healthy body and mind. Self-compassion and treating myself with respect has positively impacted my emotional health. Continuing to do the things that make me happy will ensure continuous personal growth. Not only did my mental health affect my academics, but it also impacted my social relationships. My emotions were judged frequently and I was often told I was “overreacting”. I quickly recognized who my true friends were. There were very few people that actually supported me and continuously encouraged me. I’m thankful for my family and my true friends, as they never gave up on me. These are the relationships that I value most. It has become a priority to maintain connections with people whom I trust and those with positive energy that recharge me. When I eliminate the stressors or potential negativity around me, it quickly improves my mood, energy and overall well-being. As I began to search out college and career choices, it became clear to me that these personal experiences guided me toward my future aspirations. I now know that I would like to major in psychology. From a very young age, I knew I wanted to help others. I choose to be someone who people can trust, while guiding them to find hope on their journey. Making a difference is important to me and there needs to be change. I hope to contribute to positive changes in this area of the healthcare system. There can no longer be a divide between the mind and the body. If so, there will always be misperceptions about mental health. Programs and policies need to place mental health as a priority in all communities. Care should be available in schools at a young age, not just in doctors’ offices. Pathways need to be easily identified and accessible to all. Mental health is a battle that no one should face alone. I want people to know that the pain and the darkness does not last forever. Offering a safe place to open up about problems and assisting them to overcome these challenges is what I am meant to do. Our time here on Earth is so valuable and everyone deserves to find happiness. My role will be to teach others how to navigate through the turmoil and find the light that shines within themselves.

Before high school, I had no personal experiences with mental health issues. During the COVID-19 pandemic, I felt isolated and became withdrawn. This was not a feeling that I was accustomed to. I had always been an outgoing and very social person. It was clear to me that something was very different. I was diagnosed with Depressive Disorder and anxiety. My mental health journey began here. School became a challenge for me, and lack of motivation was an issue. My focus was nearly impossible for academics, when previously I was a strong student with all A’s. Quickly I realized that communication was critical and should be prioritized for mental wellness. I was grateful for the many teachers that I could confide in and trust. They were compassionate, they listened, and they didn’t judge me. My parents were also understanding and supportive. Finding people that will listen to your struggles will allow healing and growth. Students need to recognize how important professional counseling is to successfully navigate emotional health. Not only was my mental health affecting my academics, but it also impacted my social relationships. I was judged frequently and told I was “overreacting”. I began to realize who my true friends were. It became a priority for me to maintain connections with people whom I trusted and those with positive energy that recharged me. When I eliminated the stressors or potential negativity around me, it quickly improved my mood and energy. Identifying boundaries with people and technology (social media) has helped reduce unnecessary anxiety. Learning to protect my mental health has become a priority in my life. One of the most helpful practices has been daily journaling. I have found it beneficial to acknowledge five things that I’m grateful for every day. Identifying what brings me joy has provided great healing power. For example, dance is my creative outlet and allows me to feel free. Exercise and a healthy diet have maximized my well-being. Good sleep habits improve my concentration and mood. It is important to recognize when I need mental breaks and to practice activities of mindfulness. Self-compassion and treating myself with respect has positively impacted my body and soul. I’ve learned that being in nature and dedicating time to the environment enhances positivity. In the pressures of today’s society, it is critical to recognize the stressors in your life and implement routines and strategies to support a healthy body and mind. We all need to create an effective balance in our lives by taking care of ourselves. Building these healthy habits is a continuous process in my mental health journey.

Most might define education as the process by which accumulated knowledge and skills are gained. However, to me, education is so much more than that. Education is an art that has a lasting effect on one's mind, values, and overall character. A positive education not only benefits an individual, but an entire society. Education is knowledge. Knowledge is powerful because it allows us to prepare for a successful life. We all may need to learn basic math, writing, and reading skills, but education will provide us with essential tools such as communication, critical thinking, problem solving, and creativity. Through my education, I have learned the importance of responsibility and how to navigate life. Throughout high school I have had to overcome many personal challenges. Inspirational teachers have provided me with opportunities to see the world from a different perspective. I’ve gained a new sense of self awareness during times of uncertainty. Education has helped me learn to adapt to an ever changing world. It has given me a better understanding of the importance of trust and compassion for others. One teacher in particular has continuously supported me and taught me the value of the relationships we can have with our educators. My education provides me with experiences that make me the individual that I am. Education is a privilege. Formal knowledge creates an important awareness of our history, our society and of human values. Knowledge is not just about textbooks or sitting in a classroom. It empowers us to broaden our horizons and explore our potential. Education shapes our minds, but also strengthens our lives. It allows us to make meaningful decisions and contributions to society. My education has guided me and prepared me for my future. Education is never ending. It is an ongoing journey that will keep me informed and engaged. It has created a lasting impact on my career aspirations. As I continue my educational path in college, I hope to obtain a degree in clinical psychology. If possible, I would like to combine my passion for dance and movement with mental health issues. Ultimately, I strive to make positive changes in peoples' lives. With my education, I hope to transform the world and excel as a good citizen. It is my responsibility to utilize and share the education that I have been given. Marian Wright Edelman stated, “Education is for improving the lives of others and for leaving your community and world better than you found it.”

My life is calling. Even with the pain endured, I continue to move forward. I have learned to love the good in life, to laugh, and to find freedom in the light. A critical issue in today’s society is overcoming the many challenges and obstacles of mental health. I quickly learned about the stigma associated with mental illness. When my mental health journey began, we sought assistance from a society with a very broken system. Although people are generally becoming more accepting, their perception is still viewed differently than that of other physical illnesses. Mental illness affects our brains. I believe that this is as much of an illness as a physical injury to the heart or kidney. When the brain has physical changes, it affects every other part of the human body. Why is mental health so misunderstood? Communication, education, and awareness are critical in the need to advocate for support and expand mental health legislation. Through counseling with my therapist, along with hard work, I’ve learned that I can be strong enough to push through dark, challenging times. No one deserves to feel that kind of pain. I believe that everyone has a purpose and we are all here for a reason. I don’t want anyone to ever feel as if they aren’t enough or that there isn't a reason to fight and push forward. My goal is to teach people that they are not defined solely by the darkness in their lives. We are so much more! As I began to search out college and career choices, it became clear to me that my personal experience guided me toward my future aspirations. I now know that I would like to major in psychology. I hope to contribute to positive changes in this healthcare system. I need to be someone who people can trust while helping them to find hope in their journey. Making a difference is important to me and there needs to be change. There can no longer be a divide between the mind and the body. If so, there will always be misperceptions about mental health. Programs and policies need to place mental health as a priority in all communities. Care should be available in schools at a young age, not just in doctors’ offices. Personally, when my family and I began this journey, there was a critical moment when I needed immediate attention and support. My well-educated parents were challenged in knowing where to turn, who to call, and how to find help. How is it possible that resources continue to be so limited? Pathways need to be easily identified and accessible to all. Recently, I initiated a conversation with our school counselor regarding the lack of direct support for students with mental health challenges. We have since implemented a mental health awareness club at my high school. I am eager to engage and advocate for my peers. I hope that as I continue to educate myself in the field of psychology, I will also expand wellness activities in my community. Mental health is a battle that no one should have to face alone. I want people to know that the pain and the darkness do not last forever. Offering a safe place to open up about their problems and assisting them to overcome these battles in life is what I am meant to do. Our time here on Earth is so valuable and everyone deserves to find happiness. My role will be to teach them how to navigate through the turmoil and find the light that shines within themselves.

My life is calling. Even with the pain endured, I continue to move forward. I have learned to love the good in life, to laugh, and to find freedom in the light. A critical issue in today’s society is overcoming the many challenges and obstacles of mental health. I quickly learned about the stigma associated with mental illness. When my mental health journey began, we sought assistance from a society with a very broken system. Although people are generally becoming more accepting, their perception is still viewed differently than that of other physical illnesses. Mental illness affects our brains. I believe that this is as much of an illness as a physical injury to the heart or kidney. When the brain has physical changes, it affects every other part of the human body. Why is mental health so misunderstood? Communication, education, and awareness are critical in the need to advocate for support and expand mental health legislation. Through counseling with my therapist, along with hard work, I’ve learned that I can be strong enough to push through dark, challenging times. No one deserves to feel that kind of pain. I believe that everyone has a purpose and we are all here for a reason. I don’t want anyone to ever feel as if they aren’t enough or that there isn't a reason to fight and push forward. My goal is to teach people that they are not defined solely by the darkness in their lives. We are so much more! As I began to search out college and career choices, it became clear to me that my personal experience guided me toward my future aspirations. I now know that I would like to major in psychology. I hope to contribute to positive changes in this healthcare system. I need to be someone who people can trust while helping them to find hope in their journey. Making a difference is important to me and there needs to be change. There can no longer be a divide between the mind and the body. If so, there will always be misperceptions about mental health. Programs and policies need to place mental health as a priority in all communities. Care should be available in schools at a young age, not just in doctors’ offices. Personally, when my family and I began this journey, there was a critical moment when I needed immediate attention and support. My well-educated parents were challenged in knowing where to turn, who to call, and how to find help. How is it possible that resources continue to be so limited? Pathways need to be easily identified and accessible to all. Recently, I initiated a conversation with our school counselor regarding the lack of direct support for students with mental health challenges. We have since implemented a mental health awareness club at my high school. I am eager to engage and advocate for my peers. I hope that as I continue to educate myself in the field of psychology, I will also expand wellness activities in my community. Mental health is a battle that no one should have to face alone. I want people to know that the pain and the darkness do not last forever. Offering a safe place to open up about their problems and assisting them to overcome these battles in life is what I am meant to do. Our time here on Earth is so valuable and everyone deserves to find happiness. My role will be to teach them how to navigate through the turmoil and find the light that shines within themselves.

My life is calling. Even with the pain endured, I continue to move forward. I have learned to love the good in life, to laugh, and to find freedom in the light. A critical issue in today’s society is overcoming the many challenges and obstacles of mental health. I quickly learned about the stigma associated with mental illness. When my mental health journey began, we sought assistance from a society with a very broken system. Although people are generally becoming more accepting, their perception is still viewed differently than that of other physical illnesses. Mental illness affects our brains. I believe that this is as much of an illness as a physical injury to the heart or kidney. When the brain has physical changes, it affects every other part of the human body. Why is mental health so misunderstood? Communication, education, and awareness are critical in the need to advocate for support and expand mental health legislation. Through counseling with my therapist, along with hard work, I’ve learned that I can be strong enough to push through dark, challenging times. No one deserves to feel that kind of pain. I believe that everyone has a purpose and we are all here for a reason. I don’t want anyone to ever feel as if they aren’t enough or that there isn't a reason to fight and push forward. My goal is to teach people that they are not defined solely by the darkness in their lives. We are so much more! As I began to search out college and career choices, it became clear to me that my personal experience guided me toward my future aspirations. I now know that I would like to major in psychology. I hope to contribute to positive changes in this healthcare system. I need to be someone who people can trust while helping them to find hope in their journey. Making a difference is important to me and there needs to be change. There can no longer be a divide between the mind and the body. If so, there will always be misperceptions about mental health. Programs and policies need to place mental health as a priority in all communities. Care should be available in schools at a young age, not just in doctors’ offices. Personally, when my family and I began this journey, there was a critical moment when I needed immediate attention and support. My well-educated parents were challenged in knowing where to turn, who to call, and how to find help. How is it possible that resources continue to be so limited? Pathways need to be easily identified and accessible to all. Recently, I initiated a conversation with our school counselor regarding the lack of direct support for students with mental health challenges. We have since implemented a mental health awareness club at my high school. I am eager to engage and advocate for my peers. I hope that as I continue to educate myself in the field of psychology, I will also expand wellness activities in my community. Mental health is a battle that no one should have to face alone. I want people to know that the pain and the darkness do not last forever. Offering a safe place to open up about their problems and assisting them to overcome these battles in life is what I am meant to do. Our time here on Earth is so valuable and everyone deserves to find happiness. My role will be to teach them how to navigate through the turmoil and find the light that shines within themselves.

My life is calling. Even with the pain endured, I continue to move forward. I have learned to love the good in life, to laugh, and to find freedom in the light. A critical issue in today’s society is overcoming the many challenges and obstacles of mental health. I quickly learned about the stigma associated with mental illness. When my mental health journey began, we sought assistance from a society with a very broken system. Although people are generally becoming more accepting, their perception is still viewed differently than that of other physical illnesses. Mental illness affects our brains. I believe that this is as much of an illness as a physical injury to the heart or kidney. When the brain has physical changes, it affects every other part of the human body. Why is mental health so misunderstood? Communication, education, and awareness are critical in the need to advocate for support and expand mental health legislation. Through counseling with my therapist, along with hard work, I’ve learned that I can be strong enough to push through dark, challenging times. No one deserves to feel that kind of pain. I believe that everyone has a purpose and we are all here for a reason. I don’t want anyone to ever feel as if they aren’t enough or that there isn't a reason to fight and push forward. My goal is to teach people that they are not defined solely by the darkness in their lives. We are so much more! As I began to search out college and career choices, it became clear to me that my personal experience guided me toward my future aspirations. I now know that I would like to major in psychology. I hope to contribute to positive changes in this healthcare system. I need to be someone who people can trust while helping them to find hope in their journey. Making a difference is important to me and there needs to be change. There can no longer be a divide between the mind and the body. If so, there will always be misperceptions about mental health. Programs and policies need to place mental health as a priority in all communities. Care should be available in schools at a young age, not just in doctors’ offices. Personally, when my family and I began this journey, there was a critical moment when I needed immediate attention and support. My well-educated parents were challenged in knowing where to turn, who to call, and how to find help. How is it possible that resources continue to be so limited? Pathways need to be easily identified and accessible to all. Recently, I initiated a conversation with our school counselor regarding the lack of direct support for students with mental health challenges. We have since implemented a mental health awareness club at my high school. I am eager to engage and advocate for my peers. I hope that as I continue to educate myself in the field of psychology, I will also expand wellness activities in my community. Mental health is a battle that no one should have to face alone. I want people to know that the pain and the darkness do not last forever. Offering a safe place to open up about their problems and assisting them to overcome these battles in life is what I am meant to do. Our time here on Earth is so valuable and everyone deserves to find happiness. My role will be to teach them how to navigate through the turmoil and find the light that shines within themselves.

My life is calling. Even with the pain endured, I continue to move forward. I have learned to love the good in life, to laugh and to find freedom in the light. Before high school, I had no personal experiences with mental health issues. During the COVID-19 pandemic, I began to feel isolated and became withdrawn. This was not a feeling that I had been accustomed to. I was always an outgoing and very social person. It was clear to me that something was very different but I was still unsure of the severity. Suddenly, school became a challenge for me and lack of motivation became an issue. My focus was nearly impossible for academics when previously I had been a strong student with all A’s. I am fortunate to have involved parents and they quickly realized that something was wrong. My mental health journey began here, when we sought assistance from a society with a very broken system. Things progressed, as we waited months to be seen by medical professionals. Finally, I was evaluated by a neuropsychologist and given the diagnosis of Major Depressive Disorder and Anxiety. I began therapy sessions and eventually met with a psychiatrist so that I could begin taking medication. There were times when I felt like nothing mattered and I thought those who loved me would be better off without me. Through counseling with my therapist, along with hard work, I’ve learned that I can be strong enough to push through these dark, challenging times. No one deserves to feel that kind of pain. I believe that everyone has a purpose on this Earth and we are here for a reason. I don’t want anyone to ever feel as if they aren’t enough or that there is no reason to fight and push forward. My goal for the future is to teach people that they are not defined solely by the darkness in their lives. We are so much more! In the future, I hope to contribute to positive changes in this healthcare system, as well as be someone who people can trust, while helping them to find hope in their journey. As I began to search out college and career choices, it became clear to me that this experience guided me to determine my future aspirations. I now know that I would like to major in psychology. There is a need for change. There cannot be a divide between the mind and the body. If there is a lack of education and awareness, there will always be misperceptions about mental health. Programs and policies need to place mental health as a priority in all communities. Care could be available in schools at a young age, not just in doctors’ offices. Pathways to help need to be easily identified and accessible to all. Mental health is a battle that no one should have to face alone. I want the opportunity to guide people to see the beauty in life again. I want them to know that the pain and the darkness don’t last forever. My goal is to offer them a safe place to open up about their problems and to assist them to overcome these battles in life. I truly believe that helping people is what I am meant to do. Our time here on Earth is so valuable and everyone deserves to find happiness. My role will be to teach them how to navigate through the turmoil and to find the light that shines within themselves.

Kasey Robertson Before high school, I had no personal experience with mental health issues. During the COVID-19 pandemic, I felt isolated and became withdrawn. This was not a feeling that I was accustomed to. I had always been an outgoing and very social person. It was clear to me that something was very different but I was still unsure of the severity. Suddenly, school became a challenge for me and lack of motivation became an issue. My focus was nearly impossible for academics when previously I was a strong student with all A’s. I am fortunate to have involved parents and they quickly realized that something was wrong. Initially, we were not sure if the issue was depression, anxiety, or possibly ADHD. My mental health journey began here when we began to seek assistance from a society with a very broken system. Things progressed, as we waited months to be seen by medical professionals. I began to feel like I had no purpose and life wasn’t worth living anymore. Finally, I was evaluated by a neuropsychologist towards the end of my junior year in high school. The diagnosis of Depressive Disorder and Anxiety was determined. I began therapy sessions and eventually met with a psychiatrist so that I could begin taking medication. Both my parents and I were fearful of the drugs and the potential effects that they could have, however, the darkness and the desperation that I felt, made the medication feel like “hope”. If there was even a slight chance that I could begin to feel like my “old self” again, we knew that this would be the right decision. This journey involved many people. My support system included my parents, my sister, some friends and a few teachers. I quickly learned about the stigma associated with mental illness. At first, we were hesitant and fearful to share my struggles with my teachers and school administration. I didn’t want them to look at me differently or treat me differently. I realized that communication and awareness were critical with issues regarding mental health and my well-being. My family and I met with the counselor and the school psychologist to discuss my academic challenges and medical diagnoses. At the time, I was enrolled in Advanced IB and AP classes. My doctor believed that these classes added additional stress and anxiety. Although I was finally permitted to alter my schedule mid-year, there was initially some resistance. My parents and I felt as if we had to fight and advocate for something that was clearly serious and significant. Through all of this, even though people are generally becoming more accepting of mental health problems, I’ve learned that their perception is still viewed differently than that of other physical illnesses. Mental illness affects our brains. I believe that this is as much of an illness as a physical injury to the heart or kidney. When the brain has physical changes, it affects every other part of the human body. Not only is mood affected, but the ability to think clearly, sleep well, and participate fully in normal activities of daily living is also impacted. This experience has made me more aware of the types of relationships that I choose to be a part of. Some people in my life observed my depression as a sign of weakness or something that wasn’t real. They didn’t fully understand the seriousness of my condition. Nobody saw how disconnected I felt from the world around me. I grew accustomed to the darkness, the fears, and the hopelessness. However, there have been some positive aspects in regard to my relationships. I learned who my true friends were. Some continued to support me even when I would pull away. I’m grateful for some of the teachers that I was able to confide in and trust. They were compassionate, they listened, and they didn’t judge me. There continue to be ups and downs during this difficult time in my life, altering medications, and seeking new therapists. As I began to search out college and career choices, it became clear to me that this experience actually helped me to determine my future aspirations. I now know that I would like to major in psychology and have the opportunity to assist others with similar issues. I strongly believe there is a need for change in the mental health system. There cannot be a divide between the mind and the body. If there is a lack of education, there will always be misperceptions about mental health. Programs and policies need to place mental health as a priority in all communities. Care should be available in schools at a young age, not just in doctors’ offices. Personally, when my family and I began this journey, there was a critical moment where I needed immediate attention and support. My very educated parents were challenged in knowing where to turn, who to call, and how to find help. This should not be the case! Change needs to happen. Pathways to help need to be easily identified and accessible to all. For now, I am feeling hopeful for a positive future. My life is calling. Even with the pain endured, I will continue to move forward. I have learned to love the good in life, to laugh, and to find freedom in the light.

Joey Anderson Scholarship Why I am Passionate About Dance Kasey Robertson I dance because it is powerful, creative, and artistic. Dance allows expression of emotion and tells stories through movement of the body. Dance has the power to heal, communicate, entertain and reflect cultural diversity. My passion for dance began fourteen years ago. This meaningful journey has provided me with self-confidence, freedom, hope, artistic expression, and collaboration. From a very young age, dance has taught me to have confidence and believe in myself. There were times when I failed and made mistakes and became discouraged, but I learned to persevere and work harder to find success. Competing and performing on a stage has helped me overcome fears and develop courage. When I was younger, I was self-conscious and critical of myself. Through the passion I found in dance, I was able to grow stronger as a person. Dance is freedom. It is an escape from the realities and pressures of life. It gives me purpose. When I’m dancing I find a connection with the music and I’m able to remove any outside stress. Movement and improvisation provide me with the freedom to express my ideas and emotions. This ability to explore and interpret my personal experiences through movement is why I am passionate about dance. More recently, dance has provided hope during a very challenging time in my life. In the past few years, I began to struggle with mental health issues. Life was especially difficult during the COVID-19 pandemic. When I dance, all negative energy disappears. My problems become manageable and I feel more at ease. Dance empowers me to acknowledge positivity and connect with my innermost thoughts. I become more focused on my goals. When I dance I have the opportunity to experience complete joy. Not only does dance provide me with a healthy form of movement and exercise, but it allows for artistic expression. Dance has spiritual powers and enables me to connect with my thoughts and convey emotions. When I’m dancing I am able to find my true self and really understand what I’m feeling. Dance tells stories. It is a form of communication. Choreography creates awareness and can serve as a life lesson. When I choreograph a piece, I share my own experiences. Dance can also reflect views of varying cultures and societies. Through dance, I tell my own story and show people who I really am. It allows me to be vulnerable, while at the same time, feel safe and capable. Through competitive studio dance, as well as performing with my high school dance team, I have learned strong leadership and teamwork skills. I enjoy the collaboration among teammates and the meaningful connections created through many lifelong friendships. Both my peer dancers and several teachers, throughout the years, have inspired me to grow as both a person and a dancer. It is for all these life lessons that I am passionate about dance. I am forever grateful to have had this connection to dance. I am the person I am today because of it. Dance is a reflection of my soul. It’s been said that “dance is a way to find yourself and lose yourself, all at the same time.” I have already begun to visit colleges that will allow me to continue this path and pursue my passion for dance. My hope is to attend Gonzaga University with a dance major.