“BUT DADDY STOPP!” - was what I yelled after pulling him off my brother. Not knowing that he was restraining him from doing something instead of actually fighting him. I was only eight, too young to understand bipolar depression or why these things called “episodes” kept occurring. As I grew older, I began to recognize the patterns in my brother’s behavior and became increasingly curious about what shaped his thoughts and actions. On my own time, I looked more into Bipolar Depression Disorder and would frighten myself when I saw life-threatening information in my searches. In my Caribbean household, mental health and psychological topics were always avoided because in Jamaica, there's no such thing as that. I was the closest thing to my brother at this age, and I wanted to do anything I could to help him. My curiosity led me to take an introductory psychology course at a local university during my senior year of high school. The course opened my eyes to mental health, human development, and health psychology. It not only helped me understand my brother’s condition, but also helped me better understand myself and connect with others. This experience solidified my desire to study how people interact with their natural, social, and built environments. Interning at a local Brooklyn pharmacy further confirmed my passion for medicine. Being surrounded by health professionals who took the time to teach me about prescriptions and patient care inspired me to support individuals facing struggles similar to my brother’s. Also, getting the experience to study abroad in Florence, Italy, expanded my perspective even further. Experiencing food, health, and wellness in a European context highlighted the importance of nutrition and preventive care. Observing the differences between Italian and American eating habits deepened my understanding of how lifestyle factors shape health outcomes. These experiences fueled my belief that “health is wealth” - physically, mentally, and socially. Serving as a Student Equity and Emotions Youth Leader - bringing underclassmen together and fostering a supportive school environment - showed me the impact of community-based emotional support. It also strengthened my commitment to advocate for people in underserved communities, particularly Black youth who disproportionately lack access to mental-health resources, as I aspire to do in my future career. Being a psychology major on the pre-med track, I will apply what I’ve learned about mental health, health behavior, and social environments to community settings. I am passionate about this work because I have experienced firsthand the effects of limited mental-health awareness and support. I’m dedicated to raising awareness about this sector of health because, in many cases, mental health isn’t acknowledged. This is especially a trend I recognized in Caribbean and African households. Contributing to health in today's and future society means helping families like mine; families who need understanding, resources, and culturally competent care.

Look around… do you hear that? How about now- BOOM! That was the sound I heard from downstairs. It was like a chair or table crashing to the floor. When I rushed down to the dining room, I found my dad holding my brother in a way that was both comforting and restraining. I was only eight, too young to understand bipolar depression or why these things called “episodes” kept happening. Next thing you know, red lights were flashing through my window, and sirens took over my block. As I grew older, I began to recognize the urgent patterns in my brother’s behavior and became increasingly curious about what shaped his thoughts and actions. On my own time, I looked more into Bipolar Disorder and would frighten myself when I saw the words ‘life-threatening' in my searches. In my Caribbean household, mental health and psychological topics were always avoided because back in Jamaica, there's no such thing as that. I was the closest thing to my brother at this age, and I wanted to do anything I could to help him. My curiosity led me to take an introductory psychology course at a local university during my senior year of high school. The course opened my eyes to mental health, human development, and health psychology. It not only helped me understand my brother’s condition, but also helped me better understand myself and connect with others. This experience solidified my desire to study how people interact with their natural, social, and built environments. Interning at a local Brooklyn pharmacy further confirmed my passion for medicine. Being surrounded by health professionals who took the time to teach me about prescriptions and patient care inspired me to support individuals facing struggles similar to my brother’s. Studying abroad in Florence, Italy, expanded my perspective even further. Experiencing food, health, and wellness in a European context highlighted the importance of nutrition and preventive care. Observing the differences between Italian and American eating habits deepened my understanding of how lifestyle factors shape health outcomes. These experiences fueled my belief that “health is wealth” - physically, mentally, and socially. Serving as a Student Equity and Emotions Youth Leader - bringing underclassmen together and fostering a supportive school environment - showed me the impact of community-based emotional support. It also strengthened my commitment to advocate for people in underserved communities, particularly Black youth who disproportionately lack access to mental-health resources. As a psychology major on the pre-med track, I want to apply what I’ve learned about mental health, health behavior, and social environments to community settings. I am passionate about this work because I have experienced firsthand the effects of limited mental-health awareness and support. I’m dedicated to raising awareness about this sector of health because, in many cases, mental health isn’t acknowledged. This is especially a trend I recognized in the Caribbean and African households. Contributing to health in today's and future society means helping families like mine; families who need understanding, resources, and culturally competent care. My personal experiences, academic background, and commitment to service have shaped my passion for improving mental health outcomes within the Black community. I am confident that my education will lead me to a place where I can serve others in the meaningful ways I have long envisioned. Giving back is a core value that guides my life, and through my pursuits, I aim to make a lasting impact on underserved communities. With the support of the Gregory A. DeCanio Memorial Scholarship, I will be able to alleviate the financial burdens I currently face and pursue a service-driven career with greater focus and peace of mind.

Look around… do you hear that? How about now- BOOM! That was the sound I heard from downstairs. It was like a chair or table crashing to the floor. When I rushed down to the dining room, I found my dad holding my brother in a way that was both comforting and restraining. I was only eight, too young to understand bipolar depression or why these things called “episodes” kept happening. As I grew older, I began to recognize the patterns in my brother’s behavior and became increasingly curious about what shaped his thoughts and actions. On my own time, I looked more into Bipolar Disorder and would frighten myself when I saw the words ‘life-threatening' in my searches. In my Caribbean household, mental health and psychological topics were always avoided because back in Jamaica, there's no such thing as that. I was the closest thing to my brother at this age, and I wanted to do anything I could to help him. My curiosity led me to take an introductory psychology course at a local university during my senior year of high school. The course opened my eyes to mental health, human development, and health psychology. It not only helped me understand my brother’s condition, but also helped me better understand myself and connect with others. This experience solidified my desire to study how people interact with their natural, social, and built environments. Interning at a local Brooklyn pharmacy further confirmed my passion for medicine. Being surrounded by health professionals who took the time to teach me about prescriptions and patient care inspired me to support individuals facing struggles similar to my brother’s. Studying abroad in Florence, Italy, expanded my perspective even further. Experiencing food, health, and wellness in a European context highlighted the importance of nutrition and preventive care. Observing the differences between Italian and American eating habits deepened my understanding of how lifestyle factors shape health outcomes. These experiences fueled my belief that “health is wealth” - physically, mentally, and socially. Serving as a Student Equity and Emotions Youth Leader - bringing underclassmen together and fostering a supportive school environment - showed me the impact of community-based emotional support. It also strengthened my commitment to advocate for people in underserved communities, particularly Black youth who disproportionately lack access to mental-health resources. As a psychology major on the pre-med track, I'm taking action on to apply what I’ve learned about mental health, health behavior, and social environments to community settings. I am passionate about this work because I have experienced firsthand the effects of limited mental-health awareness and support. I’m dedicated to raising awareness about this sector of health because, in many cases, mental health isn’t acknowledged. This is especially a trend I recognized in Caribbean and African households. Contributing to health in today's and future society means helping families like mine; families who need understanding, resources, and culturally competent care. My personal experiences, academic background, and commitment to service all have shaped my passion for improving mental health outcomes in the Black community. Howard University’s strong foundation in the sciences thus far has provided the ideal environment to deepen this work.

Can you imagine coming to the United States 30-40 years ago from a third-world country you call home and having to work instead of attending school at ages 8 or 13? At these ages, I was told to enjoy it while it lasts or don't grow up. Sadly, my parents had to grow up young and didn't experience a childhood. “Out of Many, One People” is the national motto of my home country. Being a first-generation American born into a Jamaican family has influenced me in many ways, including my sense of self and how I encounter challenges. Through my cultural heritage, I’ve been able to understand the importance of resilience, the power of connections, and the essence of communities. The cultural practices and stories my family shares have been passed down, shaping my identity. Through my elders' struggles and accomplishments in overcoming adversity, I developed a sense of gratitude. My parents coming here with nothing, just to offer me everything, always motivates me to excel and take advantage of the things they couldn’t. Turning down my dad’s speaker blasting reggae as I got older transformed into “Play the chune deh”. Maturing helped me understand how much these songs reflect not only their struggles but the greater things in life. My local Jamaican community hasn’t been shaped just by proximity but also through the lingo, beliefs, and traditions we share. Whether walking together with other Jamaicans at the Caribbean Day Parade, my uncle roasting his famous jerk pork and my aunt cooking her signature pepper shrimp to place on the Thanksgiving table; I was always influenced by the warmth of welcoming spirits. No matter what we are celebrating, it's always gratifying to bring a friend to a family reunion because we are all family. These activities reinforced a sense of interconnectedness bringing forms of love through talent, food, and celebration. It all comes back to the phrase we say at home: “One love”. Being raised in a Jamaican household has shaped the person I am today, influencing the decisions I make, the relationships I build, and the way I connect with others. The bigger picture extends beyond the traditions I grew up with. It is the understanding that, out of many people, we are one. As I take the next step in my educational journey, I aspire to become an adolescent psychiatrist. Although I was raised in a household with many positive influences, there were also challenges related to mental well-being. Within my family and culture, mental health was often overlooked or misunderstood, and seeking help was not always encouraged. This reality has motivated me to become part of the change; to help normalize conversations around mental health and provide support to those who may feel unheard. This scholarship would support my efforts to bring greater recognition to my heritage while honoring the background that continues to guide and inspire me. In the end, health is wealth and we all need someone to speak to.

Privileged, but also a curse. This is how I would describe my journey through the NYC public school system. I am forever grateful for the opportunity to receive a quality education at a low cost. NYC public schools instilled traits that continue to guide me today: humility and gratitude. Attending a private institution for my undergraduate education later, made me even more intentional about taking full advantage of the opportunities I am paying for. My experiences within the public school system taught me resilience, adaptability, and, most importantly, advocating for myself. I attended the High School of Fashion Industries, located in the heart of Chelsea, Manhattan. During this coming-of-age period, I was a shy student who struggled with public speaking and standing up for myself. Many people did not recognize this side of me, but my involvement with the United Federation of Teachers (UFT) gave me a platform to share my story. Through an interview about my YouTube channel, I was featured in the Students of NYC article. Once my story was published, I was recognized not only within my own school but also by students across other NYC public schools. Being part of the first generation featured in this article filled me with gratitude and gave me a sense of validation and confidence that encouraged me to continue using my voice. https://www.studentsofnyc.com/kirsten . I deeply admire the sense of family and unity shared among students from different public schools. Despite limited resources, there is a strong sense of community that pushes students to support one another. The contrast between NYC public and private schools often reflects social class differences. For example, during field trips, my classmates and I relied on public transportation, while friends attending private schools like Xaverian or Christ the King traveled on coach buses. At times, this disparity made me feel discouraged. I recall a trip where a friend became sick and had nowhere to sit due to an overcrowded train. Public transportation can also pose safety concerns, especially for younger students. These experiences highlighted the reality that city funding is not always sufficient to support students in the ways they deserve. As a student-athlete, I also witnessed the lack of investment in public school sports programs. Many schools struggled with limited equipment, facilities, and training opportunities. Despite this, the Public School Athletic League (PSAL) consistently produced some of the most talented athletes in New York City. I believe many students with extraordinary potential went unrecognized due to limited resources. While this revealed how the system failed many students, it also taught us the ability to succeed despite obstacles. As I move forward in my education, this scholarship would help fund my upcoming academic and professional experiences. At Howard University, I aim to give back to my community, and with the support of this scholarship, I would be better equipped to pursue initiatives that allow me to mentor and support students transitioning from public schools to private institutions, just as I did.

I watched my brother get into many fights with my dad growing up. But as I stand here as a psychology major, I’m able to process that they weren’t fights, but my dad holding onto him during his episodes. Analyzing my brother’s bipolar disorder growing up has motivated me to become a psychiatrist, but for adolescents. I believe that during the “coming of age” part of our lives, this is when we need the most help and guidance in navigating our decisions, health, and even relationships. My first job/internship at a pharmacy has driven my long-term passions for medicine, as also incorporated in this career. In short terms, I chose my Historically Black University - specifically Howard University - because white isn’t ALWAYS right. In my college application season, I had been told to go to the PWI that gives more money, and that HBCUs are “party schools,” and don’t provide job offers in the future because of their representation on your resume. This is false, by the way. Little do they know, all universities and colleges are party schools. It's a part of the culture. The environment that a lot of HBCUs had to “crack through” is one riddled with oppression, adversity, and challenges. Despite those challenges, the beautiful pride of HBCUs grew to defy the odds, preserve their legacy, and continue the fight for progress. As a student attending an HBCU, I’m excited to live by this and look to continue proving society wrong.

BOOM. That was the sound I heard from downstairs. It was like a chair or table crashing to the floor. When I rushed down to the dining room, I found my dad holding my brother in a way that was both comforting and restraining. I was only eight, too young to understand bipolar depression. As I grew older, I began to recognize the patterns in my brother’s behavior and became increasingly curious about what shaped his thoughts and actions. That curiosity led me to take an introductory psychology course at a local university during my senior year of high school. The course opened my eyes to mental health, human development, and health psychology. It also helped me better understand myself and connect with others. This experience solidified my desire to study how people interact with their natural, social, and built environments. Interning at a local Brooklyn pharmacy further confirmed my passion for medicine. Being surrounded by health professionals who took the time to teach me about prescriptions and patient care inspired me to support individuals facing struggles similar to my brother’s. Studying abroad in Florence, Italy, expanded my perspective even further. Experiencing food, health, and wellness in a European context highlighted the importance of nutrition and preventive care. Observing the differences between Italian and American eating habits deepened my understanding of how lifestyle factors shape health outcomes. These experiences fueled my belief that “health is wealth” - physically, mentally, and socially. Serving as a Student Equity and Emotions Youth Leader showed me the impact of community-based emotional support. It also strengthened my commitment to advocate for people in underserved communities, particularly Black youth who disproportionately lack access to mental-health resources. A significant change to the modern mental healthcare system would be expanding access to community-rooted care as a standard rather than a “privilege.” Many underserved and minority communities do not seek treatment because their providers do not understand their cultural background or lived experiences. I believe mental-healthcare settings should invest in stronger cultural-competency training, diversify the mental-health workforce, and integrate behavioral health services into schools, churches, and community centers. This shift would help break the stigma surrounding treatment and ensure that people see mental healthcare as a safe, familiar, and affirming resource. Teletherapy is becoming a major part of the future of mental health. One of its greatest benefits is accessibility: it eliminates transportation barriers, increases scheduling flexibility, and allows individuals to connect with providers outside their immediate area. For communities like mine, where local mental-health resources may be limited, teletherapy can bridge critical gaps. I admire how you can choose a therapist based on your preferences. In my city, there aren’t many women of color with this career, which is why I'm grateful to have one through the app: Talkspace. However, challenges remain, including technology inequities, privacy concerns for people living in crowded homes, and the difficulty some clients face building trust through a screen. To better serve diverse communities, we must continue expanding low-cost internet programs, designing culturally sensitive virtual platforms, and offering hybrid care options. My personal experiences, academic background, and commitment to service have shaped my passion for improving mental-health outcomes in the Black community. Growing up in a Caribbean household where mental health isn’t acknowledged as much pushes me even more to pursue a career in psychiatry. Howard University's strong foundation in the sciences thus far has provided the ideal environment to deepen this work. With this support, I can continue developing the knowledge and skills needed to make a meaningful and culturally informed impact in the field of psychology.

BOOM. That was the sound I heard from downstairs. It was like a chair or table crashing to the floor. When I rushed down to the dining room, I found my dad holding my brother in a way that was both comforting and restraining. I was only eight, too young to understand bipolar depression. As I grew older, I began to recognize the patterns in my brother’s behavior and became increasingly curious about what shaped his thoughts and actions. That curiosity led me to take an introductory psychology course at a local university during my senior year of high school. The course opened my eyes to mental health, human development, and health psychology. It also helped me better understand myself and connect with others. This experience solidified my desire to study how people interact with their natural, social, and built environments. Interning at a local Brooklyn pharmacy further confirmed my passion for medicine. Being surrounded by health professionals who took the time to teach me about prescriptions and patient care inspired me to support individuals facing struggles similar to my brother’s. Serving as a Student Equity and Emotions Youth Leader showed me the impact of community-based emotional support. It also strengthened my commitment to advocate for people in underserved communities, particularly Black youth who disproportionately lack access to mental-health resources. A significant change to the modern mental healthcare system would be expanding access to community-rooted care as a standard rather than a “privilege.” Many underserved and minority communities do not seek treatment because their providers do not understand their cultural background or lived experiences. I believe mental-healthcare settings should invest in stronger cultural-competency training, diversify the mental-health workforce, and integrate behavioral health services into schools, churches, and community centers. This shift would help break the stigma surrounding treatment and ensure that people see mental healthcare as a safe, familiar, and affirming resource. Teletherapy is becoming a major part of the future of mental health. One of its greatest benefits is accessibility: it eliminates transportation barriers, increases scheduling flexibility, and allows individuals to connect with providers outside their immediate area. For communities like mine, where local mental-health resources may be limited, teletherapy can bridge critical gaps. I admire how you can choose a therapist based on your preferences. In my city, there aren’t many women of color with this career, which is why I'm grateful to have one through the app: Talkspace. However, challenges remain, including technology inequities, privacy concerns for people living in crowded homes, and the difficulty some clients face building trust through a screen. To better serve diverse communities, we must continue expanding low-cost internet programs, designing culturally sensitive virtual platforms, and offering hybrid care options. My personal experiences, academic background, and commitment to service have shaped my passion for improving mental-health outcomes in the Black community. Howard’s strong foundation in the sciences thus far has provided the ideal environment to deepen this work. Receiving the NextGen Scholarship would directly support my journey toward earning a psychology degree, providing me with the stability and resources to fully invest in my academic evolution. It would allow me to engage more deeply in research, hands-on learning, and volunteer opportunities that strengthen my understanding of human behavior. Most importantly, this scholarship would validate the work I’ve consistently put into my studies, empowering me to continue pushing toward my long-term goal as a mental-health professional. With this support, I can continue developing the knowledge and skills needed to make a meaningful and culturally informed impact in the field of psychology.

Historically Black Colleges and Universities are the epitome of roses that grew from concrete. The environments that many HBCUs had to “crack through” were riddled with oppression, adversity, and systemic barriers. Yet despite those challenges, the pride and resilience of these institutions continue to bloom. HBCUs have not only defied the odds but also preserved a legacy rooted in community, empowerment, and progress. Since the founding of the first HBCU - Cheyney University of Pennsylvania in 1837, these institutions have stood as pillars of Black excellence, offering opportunity where none previously existed. To me, HBCUs are more than schools; they are homes built on sacrifice, culture, and unwavering hope. If given the opportunity, I would dedicate myself to repairing and improving the aspects of these institutions that struggle the most. One major issue affecting HBCUs is financial support. Many students come from working-class families, and the lack of adequate funding makes it difficult for them to remain enrolled. Because HBCUs typically have smaller endowments than larger universities, they often cannot offer the same level of scholarships or institutional aid. Even higher-profile schools like Howard or Spelman still face systemic funding challenges. As a current student, I’ve watched classmates take on overwhelming loans or fight for competitive scholarships that don’t always consider the complexities of middle-class families who still cannot afford tuition. This is why, when I become a psychiatrist and reach the level of financial stability I’m working toward, I plan to give back consistently through alumni associations and scholarships. It is important to me that future HBCU students have fewer financial burdens than the generations before them. Another area I would work to improve is administration and communication. Many students encounter delays with paperwork, unclear information about housing or registration, and slow responses from school offices… Not because the staff doesn’t care, but because these departments are often understaffed and underfunded. This becomes a source of frustration and can negatively impact a student’s academic journey. I hate that HBCUs are sometimes ranked poorly or judged harshly because of these structural challenges, as if the system expects us to fail simply because of the “B” in our acronym. Improving administrative systems, increasing staffing, and modernizing processes would allow students to feel heard and supported. If given the opportunity, I would advocate for these changes and work with alumni, donors, and organizations to create funding and programs that strengthen the infrastructure of HBCU campuses. Finally, many HBCUs are located in underdeveloped or low-income communities, which brings challenges related to safety, resources, and overall student experience. This is where community service becomes essential. We have a responsibility to pour back into the neighborhoods that raised us and the communities that house our institutions. Many HBCUs, especially those in the South or in rural areas, also face the lingering effects of systemic racism, making it harder to recruit students or create a safe, thriving environment. Recent threats sent to HBCU campuses across the nation only highlight how vulnerable these sacred spaces can be. If I had the opportunity, I would collaborate with local organizations to improve community resources, strengthen campus–community relationships, and help create safer, more vibrant environments for students and residents. Improving specifically my HBCU community is important to me because these institutions represent our past, our present, and our collective future. They shaped who I am becoming, and I believe it is my responsibility to pour back into the places that poured into me. My goal is not only to succeed but to ensure that the generations after me have even more opportunities, support, and security than those who came before.

When I was in 4th grade, I was diagnosed with walking pneumonia. At the time, I didn’t understand what it was, but it sounded long and intimidating. I was sent home from school to rest, which felt like a relief - until I realized how serious it was. For the first time, I could barely walk, breathe, or talk. My body was telling me something was wrong, but I didn’t know how to ask for help. I was always a shy child and rarely went to the nurse’s office unless I had to. But this time was different. That Monday morning, I was coughing up phlegm, and when I saw blood in my tissue, I gained the courage to tell my teacher. Soon after, I was taken to the nurse’s office, where I found myself terrified. The nurse whom I had always been afraid of due to her impatience, quickly took my temperature. It was 103°F - a fever that called for immediate attention. My father was called, and as I struggled to speak, he hurried to pick me up for an early dismissal. We went straight to the emergency room, where I took blood draws, a CT scan, and an MRI. Following the diagnosis, I didn’t fully grasp the severity. I soon learned how serious it could be. With two weeks off school, antibiotics, and a nebulizer, I began to heal. The phlegm cleared, I could breathe easier, and my strength returned. But the experience stayed with me. My journey toward healthcare didn’t begin due to that illness but by my desire to help others who, like me, are hesitant to seek medical attention out of fear. Growing up, I often avoided doctors because I was afraid of the worst. I know this fear is shared by many in underrepresented communities who may not have access to the same quality of care and often feel dismissed by medical professionals. From this, I learned that prevention is always better than a cure. A traumatic example that reinforced this occurred during the COVID-19 pandemic, when my uncle experienced serious health complications. Despite his symptoms, he avoided going to the doctor, believing his issues weren’t serious because he had been told “there’s nothing wrong” during past visits. Shortly after, he passed away suddenly, and the cause of his death was linked to his untreated complications. This experience, along with my internship at ABO Pharmacy, confirmed my desire to pursue medicine. While my tasks primarily involved restocking and checking expiration dates, my curiosity led me to inquire about the purpose of each medication and how they improve patient health. I continued to understand the powerful impact healthcare professionals have on improving lives. In addition to my medical aspirations, I’m actively engaged in a variety of extracurricular activities that contribute to my personal growth and leadership skills. As a varsity track and field athlete, I’ve learned perseverance, discipline, and teamwork. Being the Head of my high school’s Health Professions Club, I lead initiatives to educate my peers about health and wellness. I also create content as a YouTube creator, which allows me to engage with a wider audience and share ideas about health and lifestyle. Lastly, I’ve been able to explore my creativity and patience as a self-taught hair stylist, constantly learning new skills. With my passion for healthcare and my dedication to community service, I am confident that I can make a meaningful difference in the world. I will continue to learn, grow, and advocate for those who need it most, ensuring that healthcare is a source of support and empowerment for all.

BOOM. That was the sound I heard from downstairs, like a chair or a table falling. As I rushed down to the dining room, I found my dad hugging my brother on the ground in a way that appeared comforting but also restraining. I was only eight and too young to understand what bipolar depression disorder was. It was another one of my brother’s many manic and terrifying episodes. As I got older, I was able to notice and process the difference in my brother’s behaviors. To this day, I remain curious about his motive for certain actions, or specifically, the way he thinks. My curiosity and concern led me to take a psychology course at John Jay College during my first semester of senior year in high school. This course allowed me to understand my brother's depression disorder, health psychology, and the development of humans. Not only was I able to connect with others from this course, but I was able to better understand myself as well. This experience shaped my decision to continue studying how we as humans interact with our natural, social, and built environments. Interning at a local Brooklyn pharmacy confirmed my passion for wanting to go into the field of medicine. Being surrounded by health professionals willing to mentor and teach me about modern prescriptions inspired me to dive into health studies, and further learn how to support those with a diagnosis similar to my brother’s. Studying abroad in Florence, Italy, one summer also motivated me to expand my knowledge in the health studies field. Experiencing Food, Health, and Wellness in a European country taught me the importance of the Mediterranean diet. It was intriguing to notice the differences between the Italian food I ate compared to what I regularly consume in the United States. I want to continue building on this knowledge and apply it in other areas of my daily life. My intended major in psychology will continue building my understanding of the idea that “health is wealth”- both physical and mental. With the intent of studying psychology on a pre-medical track, I plan to be involved in applicable student organizations. I am intrigued by the various translational research opportunities and resources offered to students by Howard’s Pre-medical program. Serving as a Student Equity and Emotions Youth Leader- bringing lower-class men together in my school community- has shaped my desire to be a voice not only for future patients but also for people from underserved communities. Growing up in a Caribbean household, mental health usually goes unnoticed. If one seeks professional help for their mental health, they are referred to as "cowardly or weak-minded". However, there are still some people who struggle to control their emotions and are vulnerable. I want to push towards a future where mental health matters and suicide prevention is taken into greater consideration. As humans, we all have emotions and not everyone can handle them efficiently without the help of others. All in all, receiving an education will allow me to step towards achieving a future where mental health is more acknowledged. Receiving the HigherLearningPreps scholarship will ease my finances, leaving me to focus solely on my studies with less money burdens. My personal and familial experiences, combined with my work and academics, have driven my passion for understanding the complexity of human health in modern society. I am confident that I will make a change and promote a future where mental health in society is recognized and put into perspective.

BOOM. That was the sound I heard from downstairs, like a chair or a table falling. As I rushed down to the dining room, I found my dad hugging my brother on the ground in a way that appeared comforting but also restraining. I was only eight and too young to understand what bipolar depression disorder was. It was another one of my brother’s many manic and terrifying episodes. As I got older, I was able to notice and process the difference in my brother’s behaviors. To this day, I remain curious about his motive for certain actions, or specifically, the way he thinks. My curiosity and concern led me to take a psychology course at John Jay College during my first semester of senior year in high school. This course allowed me to understand my brother's depression disorder, health psychology, and the development of humans. Not only was I able to connect with others from this course, but I was able to better understand myself as well. This experience shaped my decision to continue studying how we as humans interact with our natural, social, and built environments. Interning at a local Brooklyn pharmacy confirmed my passion for wanting to study medicine. Being surrounded by health professionals willing to mentor and teach me about modern prescriptions inspired me to dive into health studies, and further learn how to support those with a diagnosis similar to my brother’s. Studying abroad in Florence, Italy, also motivated me to expand my knowledge in the health studies field. Experiencing food, health, and wellness in a European country taught me the importance of the Mediterranean diet. It was intriguing to notice the differences between the Italian food I ate compared to what I regularly consume in the United States. I want to continue building on this knowledge and apply it in other areas of my daily life. My intended major in psychology will continue building my understanding of the idea that “health is wealth”- both physical and mental. With the intent of studying on a Pre-Med track, I plan to be involved in applicable student organizations. I am intrigued by the various translational research opportunities offered to students by Howard’s Pre-medical program. Serving as a Student Equity and Emotions Youth Leader- bringing lower-class men together in my school community- has shaped my desire to be a voice not only for future patients but also for people from underserved communities. Growing up in a Caribbean household, mental health goes unnoticed. If one seeks professional help for their mental health, one is referred to as "cowardly or weak-minded". However, there are still some people who struggle to control their emotions and are vulnerable. I want to push towards a future where mental health matters and suicide prevention is taken into greater consideration. All in all, receiving the Jake Thomas Williams Memorial Scholarship will allow me to step towards achieving a future where financial hardships are scarce, leaving me to focus solely on my studies. My personal and familial experiences, combined with my work and academics, have driven my passion for understanding the complexity of human health in modern society. I am confident that I will make a change and promote a future where mental health and reasons behind suicide is more acknowledged.