Growing up in what I thought was a sheltered environment, I often found solace in the stories of triumph shared within the walls of our church. Little did I know that life would soon challenge the tranquility of my existence. Mental health discussions were not foreign to my church-going family, but I never imagined I'd be one to face such struggles. I vividly remember a psychology class where the professor mentioned that everyone would likely experience depression at least once in their life—a normalcy that would eventually pass. However, two years later, those words resonated deeply with me as I grappled with the loss of my grandfather. Despite my background in psychology and the belief in mental health care within my family, I found myself engulfed by an affliction I never thought would touch me. The initial episode of depression manifested itself, yet I initially denied or dismissed the symptoms, masking my pain with overachievement. Ironically, I was pursuing a psychology degree in graduate school while battling my own demons, hiding the chaos within me. The turning point came during a planning session for a child diagnosed with depression. Faced with the irony of my situation, I realized I could no longer be a hypocrite while helping others. It was time to confront my truth and seek help. To this day, the struggle persists, impacting every aspect of my life—relationships, family dynamics, faith, and academic pursuits. But admitting that I needed help was a crucial step towards reclaiming control. The journey towards mental well-being is neither easy nor swift. It demands acceptance, resilience, and a commitment to self-discovery. I find strength in the power I now have over the chaos that once threatened to consume me. Acknowledging my struggles has given me the agency to shape my narrative and find strength in vulnerability. As I navigate the ups and downs of my mental health, I've come to appreciate the significance of progress, no matter how small. Accepting imperfection has become a source of empowerment. While some days are better than others, I now have the tools to face challenges head-on. In addition to therapy and medication, having a dog has been instrumental in my recovery journey. His unconditional love and need for routine have encouraged me to get out of bed in the morning and establish a sense of normalcy. Taking care of him has given me a sense of purpose and responsibility, reminding me to prioritize my well-being. My journey is ongoing, but with each step, I am forging a path towards a brighter, more authentic existence. I share my story not as a tale of despair but as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of seeking help.

Mental health holds immense significance to me, especially as a student, given my personal experiences and professional aspirations. Growing up in a military family accustomed me to constant change and the importance of fostering community wherever we were stationed. Prior to embarking on my journey in the Clinical Psychology Ph.D. Program at Hofstra University, I immersed myself in various roles aimed at supporting Black and brown families affected by trauma. From working with Black youth in the foster care system to collaborating on research addressing mental health disparities in high-risk schools, I witnessed firsthand the profound impact of trauma on individuals and communities. These experiences underscored the importance of addressing stigma surrounding help-seeking and equipping marginalized communities with the tools for self-advocacy. One pivotal moment came with the passing of my grandfather, which triggered a profound episode of depression. Despite initially attempting to conceal my struggles, I eventually acknowledged the need for help. This marked the beginning of my journey towards mental well-being, characterized by acceptance, resilience, and self-discovery. Through embracing vulnerability and seeking treatment, I reclaimed agency over my narrative and found strength in confronting my reality. As a doctoral student and aspiring psychologist, advocating for mental health is not just a professional obligation but a personal mission. I am committed to addressing trauma disparities within Black and Indigenous communities and bolstering community-level resilience. By starting within my own communities and fostering partnerships, I hope to expand my impact to other marginalized groups in the future. My experiences have taught me the importance of prioritizing mental health, not just for individuals but for the collective well-being of communities. In my advocacy efforts, I aim to challenge societal perceptions surrounding mental health and promote a culture of openness, empathy, and support. Whether through research, clinical practice, or community outreach, I strive to empower individuals to prioritize their mental well-being and seek the help they need. By sharing my own journey and experiences, I hope to inspire others to embrace vulnerability, confront their struggles, and embark on their own paths towards healing and resilience. Ultimately, mental health advocacy is not just about addressing individual challenges but about creating systemic change and fostering environments where everyone feels supported and valued. As a student, psychologist, and advocate, I am committed to contributing to this ongoing endeavor and creating a brighter, more compassionate future for all.

Growing up in what I thought was a sheltered environment, I often found solace in the stories of triumph shared within the walls of our church. Little did I know that life would soon challenge the tranquility of my existence. Mental health discussions were not foreign to my church-going family, but I never imagined I'd be one to face such struggles. I vividly remember a psychology class where the professor mentioned that everyone would likely experience depression at least once in their life—a normalcy that would eventually pass. However, two years later, those words resonated deeply with me as I grappled with the loss of my grandfather. Despite my background in psychology and the belief in mental health care within my family, I found myself engulfed by an affliction I never thought would touch me. The initial episode of depression manifested itself, yet I initially denied or dismissed the symptoms, masking my pain with overachievement. Ironically, I was pursuing a psychology degree in graduate school while battling my own demons, hiding the chaos within me. The turning point came during a planning session for a child diagnosed with depression. Faced with the irony of my situation, I realized I could no longer be a hypocrite while helping others. It was time to confront my truth and seek help. To this day, the struggle persists, impacting every aspect of my life—relationships, family dynamics, faith, and academic pursuits. But admitting that I needed help was a crucial step towards reclaiming control. The journey towards mental well-being is neither easy nor swift. It demands acceptance, resilience, and a commitment to self-discovery. I find strength in the power I now have over the chaos that once threatened to consume me. Acknowledging my struggles has given me the agency to shape my narrative and find strength in vulnerability. As I navigate the ups and downs of my mental health, I've come to appreciate the significance of progress, no matter how small. Accepting imperfection has become a source of empowerment. While some days are better than others, I now have the tools to face challenges head-on. In addition to therapy and medication, having a dog has been instrumental in my recovery journey. His unconditional love and need for routine have encouraged me to get out of bed in the morning and establish a sense of normalcy. Taking care of him has given me a sense of purpose and responsibility, reminding me to prioritize my well-being. My journey is ongoing, but with each step, I am forging a path towards a brighter, more authentic existence.

Mental health holds paramount importance to me as a student due to a confluence of personal and professional experiences that have shaped my understanding of its significance. Growing up in a military family, I witnessed firsthand the toll that constant relocation and the challenges of military life could have on individuals' mental well-being. Additionally, as a Black-Indigenous individual, I am acutely aware of the intersecting factors that contribute to mental health disparities within marginalized communities. These experiences have fueled my passion for advocating for mental health awareness and accessibility, both within my academic community and beyond. Throughout my academic journey, I have actively engaged in various initiatives aimed at promoting mental health advocacy and support. Prior to joining Hofstra University's Clinical Psychology Ph.D. Program, I immersed myself in diverse experiences working with Black and brown families impacted by trauma across multiple settings. These experiences provided me with invaluable insights into the complex interplay of social, cultural, and systemic factors that influence mental health outcomes. For instance, during my time working with youth and families in the Baltimore City Foster Care division, I organized a motherhood circle to provide support and resources to non-offending teenage birth mothers. By creating a safe and nurturing space for these young mothers, I aimed to empower them to re-engage in the process of reunifying with their children while addressing their mental health needs. Furthermore, my involvement in research within a local Baltimore high school shed light on the urgent need to address trauma-related mental health issues among adolescents. Collaborating on a study focused on engaging students with ADHD and depression symptoms in evidence-based treatment highlighted the critical importance of culturally sensitive and trauma-informed approaches. It became evident that simply implementing standardized treatments was insufficient without considering the broader context of interpersonal trauma and systemic violence within the school community. In addition to my professional endeavors, I have also been actively involved in community-based initiatives aimed at destigmatizing mental health help-seeking behaviors and providing accessible resources. Volunteering with Catholic Charities in their Trafficking Victims Assistance Program allowed me to organize a mentorship program for young adult survivors of human trafficking, creating a supportive network for healing and empowerment. As I continue on my academic and professional journey, my commitment to mental health advocacy remains steadfast. I am currently partnering with community organizations to implement trauma-based protocols and promote resilience-building initiatives represents a tangible manifestation of my dedication to effecting positive change. By collaborating with local stakeholders and leveraging my expertise, I strive to foster a culture of compassion, understanding, and support for mental health within my community and beyond. In conclusion, mental health advocacy is not just a professional endeavor for me—it is a deeply personal mission driven by a desire to address the systemic inequities that perpetuate mental health disparities within marginalized communities. Through my advocacy efforts, I hope to contribute to the creation of a more inclusive and supportive community where individuals can access the resources and support they need to thrive mentally, emotionally, and socially.

Mental health holds immense significance to me, especially as a student, given my personal experiences and professional aspirations. Growing up in a military family accustomed me to constant change and the importance of fostering community wherever we were stationed. As a Black-Indigenous individual, navigating spaces that often opposed our identities highlighted the necessity of prioritizing mental well-being for myself and others. This understanding was further solidified through my experiences working with marginalized communities impacted by trauma. Prior to embarking on my journey in the Clinical Psychology Ph.D. Program at Hofstra University, I immersed myself in various roles aimed at supporting Black and brown families affected by trauma. From working with Black youth in the foster care system to collaborating on research addressing mental health disparities in high-risk schools, I witnessed firsthand the profound impact of trauma on individuals and communities. These experiences underscored the importance of addressing stigma surrounding help-seeking and equipping marginalized communities with the tools for self-advocacy. One pivotal moment came with the passing of my grandfather, which triggered a profound episode of depression. Despite initially attempting to conceal my struggles, I eventually acknowledged the need for help. This marked the beginning of my journey towards mental well-being, characterized by acceptance, resilience, and self-discovery. Through embracing vulnerability and seeking treatment, I reclaimed agency over my narrative and found strength in confronting my reality. As a doctoral student and aspiring psychologist, advocating for mental health is not just a professional obligation but a personal mission. I am committed to addressing trauma disparities within Black and Indigenous communities and bolstering community-level resilience. By starting within my own communities and fostering partnerships, I hope to expand my impact to other marginalized groups in the future. My experiences have taught me the importance of prioritizing mental health, not just for individuals but for the collective well-being of communities. In my advocacy efforts, I aim to challenge societal perceptions surrounding mental health and promote a culture of openness, empathy, and support. Whether through research, clinical practice, or community outreach, I strive to empower individuals to prioritize their mental well-being and seek the help they need. By sharing my own journey and experiences, I hope to inspire others to embrace vulnerability, confront their struggles, and embark on their own paths towards healing and resilience. Ultimately, mental health advocacy is not just about addressing individual challenges but about creating systemic change and fostering environments where everyone feels supported and valued. As a student, psychologist, and advocate, I am committed to contributing to this ongoing endeavor and creating a brighter, more compassionate future for all.

Growing up in a military family taught me the importance of community and resilience in the face of adversity. As a Black-Indigenous individual, I learned early on the significance of holding space for marginalized identities and advocating for those who are often overlooked. These values have profoundly influenced my beliefs, relationships, and career aspirations, particularly in the field of mental health. My experiences with mental health, both personally and professionally, have shaped my worldview and solidified my commitment to serving marginalized communities. The passing of my grandfather marked a turning point in my own journey with depression, prompting me to confront my struggles and seek the help I needed. Through therapy and self-reflection, I learned to embrace vulnerability and reclaim agency over my mental well-being. These experiences have not only shaped my personal beliefs but also informed my professional aspirations. Prior to joining Hofstra University's Clinical Psychology Ph.D. Program, I gained valuable experience working with Black and brown families impacted by trauma in various settings. From supporting youth in the foster care system to organizing mentorship programs for survivors of human trafficking, I witnessed firsthand the profound impact of trauma on marginalized communities. One pivotal experience involved collaborating on research within a local Baltimore high school, where suicide and homicide rates were alarmingly high. Through this research, I discovered the importance of addressing not only individual mental health symptoms but also systemic factors such as interpersonal trauma and cultural influences. This insight fueled my determination to challenge stigma surrounding help-seeking and empower marginalized communities to advocate for their mental health needs. My ultimate goal is to work with children, adolescents, and their families within Black and Indigenous communities to address trauma-related mental health problems and foster community-level resilience. I believe that by starting within my own communities, I can build trust, foster partnerships, and create meaningful change. Just as I was taught to "start at Jerusalem" when serving others, I am committed to prioritizing the needs of my own community while also advocating for marginalized populations more broadly. Through my work, I hope to contribute to the dismantling of systemic barriers to mental health care and promote culturally responsive practices that honor the unique experiences of each individual. By sharing my own journey and advocating for mental health awareness, I aspire to make a positive impact on the world and help create a more inclusive and equitable society for all.

My upbringing in a military family instilled in me a deep sense of community and a passion for serving marginalized populations. As a Black-Indigenous individual, I have navigated spaces that were often opposed to my identity, fostering within me a commitment to holding space for marginalized voices. This dedication to service and advocacy has driven my career goals and shaped my journey thus far. Prior to joining Hofstra University's Clinical Psychology Ph.D. Program, I accumulated extensive experience working with Black and brown families impacted by trauma in various settings. From collaborating with Black youth and families in the Baltimore City Foster Care division to organizing motherhood circles for non-offending teenage birth mothers, I have witnessed firsthand the profound impact of trauma on marginalized communities. One of the most impactful experiences was collaborating on research within a high-risk Baltimore high school, where suicide and homicide rates were alarmingly high. Through this research, I discovered the critical need to address not only mental health symptoms but also the underlying trauma and violence within the school environment. This realization underscored the importance of integrating cultural factors and community-level interventions in trauma treatment. Additionally, my volunteer work with Catholic Charities' Trafficking Victims Assistance Program allowed me to support children and adult survivors of human trafficking. By organizing mentorship programs and providing a space for healing, I witnessed the transformative power of community support in the recovery process. My ultimate career goal is to work with children, adolescents, and their families in Black and Indigenous communities to address trauma-related mental health problems and promote community-level resilience. I am deeply committed to tackling trauma disparities and addressing the stigma surrounding help-seeking in marginalized communities. Receiving this scholarship would be instrumental in achieving my professional goals. As a doctoral student, I am dedicated to advancing research and implementing culturally informed interventions to support marginalized populations. This scholarship would provide me with the financial support necessary to pursue my studies and contribute to the field of clinical psychology. Furthermore, my upbringing has taught me the importance of starting within my own community. By investing in the well-being of Black and Indigenous communities, I hope to foster partnerships and expand my impact to other marginalized communities throughout my career. In conclusion, my dedication to serving marginalized populations and addressing trauma disparities is deeply rooted in my personal experiences and upbringing. I am committed to making a meaningful difference in the lives of those affected by trauma and advocating for equitable access to mental health care. With the support of this scholarship, I am confident that I can continue to pursue my passion and contribute to creating positive change in communities facing adversity.

Playing golf has been a significant part of my life since childhood, providing me with invaluable lessons and experiences. Growing up in a military family meant constant relocation, but amidst the changes, golf remained a constant. Introduced to the sport at a young age through the First Tee program, I initially viewed it as just another activity. However, over time, I came to appreciate the therapeutic nature of golf and its ability to provide solace amidst life's challenges. Despite my early exposure to the sport, it took me years to truly develop confidence in my abilities. As a female golfer, I faced unique challenges, particularly in proving myself in a predominantly male-dominated sport. Being the only female on all of my golf teams and matches, I often felt the pressure to demonstrate my skill and competence. In a sport where individual performance is paramount, there were moments when I struggled to assert myself and gain recognition among my peers. One of the biggest hurdles I faced was overcoming self-doubt and fear of competition. Despite enjoying the sport, I hesitated to enter tournaments or compete seriously. The fear of failure and the pressure to perform at a high level held me back. However, with the encouragement of my coach, I decided to take the leap and participate in a tournament. The experiences taught me the value of embracing challenges and pushing past my comfort zone. Competing in tournaments also helped me realize the importance of resilience and perseverance. In golf, success can often measured by one's ability to bounce back from setbacks and learn from mistakes. As a female golfer, I learned to navigate the unique dynamics of the sport, finding strength in my determination to prove myself on the course. Despite the challenges, my love for golf has only deepened over the years. Now, as a doctoral student, I continue to make time for the sport, relishing the opportunity to hit the range and hone my skills. I am grateful to my parents for instilling in me a love for golf and for supporting me throughout my journey in the sport. Beyond the personal fulfillment it brings me, golf has also become a means of giving back to my community. In my spare time, I volunteer to teach others about the rules and etiquette of the game, hoping to inspire a new generation of golfers. In the end, golf has taught me valuable lessons about resilience, determination, and the importance of perseverance in the face of adversity. As a female golfer, I am proud to have overcome challenges and found my place in a sport that has brought me immense joy and fulfillment. My journey with golf continues to shape me, reminding me of the power of passion and persistence in pursuing one's dreams.

Growing up in a military family and constantly moving, volunteering and sports were methods to ground us into our community. By age 6, I took my first golf lesson with First Tee of Washington D.C at East Potomac Golf Course. My parents always stressed that most life lessons and business transactions were on the golf course or the tennis courts. However, I learned so much about the art of golf and a few things about myself throughout the years. Despite all my family's moves throughout my life, golf lessons and tournaments were constant. However, I did not immediately fall in love with the game. I would complain about missing other extracurricular activities or that too much walking was involved. I only recognized the therapeutic element of the sport once I was in middle school. The driving range became such a tremendous therapeutic tool that it allowed me to disassociate from academic challenges, freed my mind, and improved my golf swing to my coach's delight. With almost five years of experience, I did not feel confident in my abilities; I shied away from tournaments and competitions. However, I felt comfortable on the range and took the occasional 6-9 holes I was familiar with. Most of the sports I was more familiar with always involved group cooperation; in a group, it was easier to hide imperfections, and the win or loss was always taken as a group, unlike golf, where even golf teams could feel isolated. Eventually, my coach challenged me to compete in a tournament. He encouraged me to trust my knowledge of the sport and muscle memory. I did not place, but I found how enjoyable the competition could be and, although not business, the friendships that were created. I also found it empowering to play solo, and the pride of a win or loss, to know I gave it my all. I improved drastically once I started playing competitively because, at times, I could implement techniques I saw in my next play. Now, I am 24 with a lengthy amount of years, golf courses, coaches, and a set of clubs, since my first golf lesson; my love for the game continues. I never knew how fortunate I was to be able to have those experiences during my early childhood. I am appreciative of my parents for keeping me in the sport; it is one of the reasons why I contributed to my level of persistence. Now a doctoral student, I still find time to hit the range occasionally; I was fortunate enough to find a place where several local golf courses are nearby. In my spare time, I explain the rules and etiquette of a sport I hold near and dear to my heart.

Growing up, I had a sheltered life, shielded from many of life's harsher realities. However, as the saying goes, adversity knows no bounds, and it eventually found its way into my life, disrupting the tranquility I had grown accustomed to. Despite being familiar with discussions on mental health due to my upbringing in a church-going family and my academic background in psychology, I never imagined that I would personally face the depths of depression. The turning point came with the passing of my grandfather, triggering a profound episode of depression that I initially attempted to conceal. Driven by denial and fear, I threw myself into overachievement, masking the turmoil that raged within me. However, it wasn't until I found myself in a professional setting, helping children navigate their own journey with depression, that I was confronted with the irony of my situation. It was then that I realized I could no longer ignore my own struggles. Acknowledging that I needed help was the first step towards overcoming adversity. Despite the ongoing nature of my battle with depression and its pervasive impact on various aspects of my life, I found empowerment in confronting my reality. By embracing vulnerability and seeking treatment, I reclaimed agency over my narrative and began the journey toward mental well-being. This journey has been anything but easy. It has demanded acceptance, resilience, and a commitment to self-discovery. While there are still challenges to face and setbacks to overcome, I take solace in the progress I have made and the strength I have discovered within myself. Each step forward, no matter how small, represents a victory in the ongoing battle for mental health. My advice to anyone facing similar circumstances is to embrace vulnerability and seek help. It's okay not to be okay, and there is strength in acknowledging our struggles. Surround yourself with a support system of loved ones who understand and accept you, and don't hesitate to reach out to mental health professionals for guidance and support. Remember that healing is a journey, and it's important to be patient and kind to yourself along the way. In sharing my journey, I hope to inspire others to find the courage to confront their own struggles and seek the help they need. Adversity may be inevitable, but with resilience and support, it is possible to overcome even the darkest of times and emerge stronger on the other side.

Being raised in a military family in which moving constantly was a way of life, I was instilled with the idea of finding and building communities by finding opportunities to participate in volunteer work wherever we were stationed. As a Black-Indigenous family, creating space in settings that were opposed to our identities was challenging. However, at a young age, I learned that holding space for marginalized identities was necessary for myself and others. Being born within a family of helpers, it was natural for me to cultivate that "gift" and use it for those with marginalized identities. Although my young age limited the scope of my volunteer work, I was able to greet patrons, direct the children to areas designed for them, and pack groceries and toiletries bags. In time I grew further into my role as a helper and began working with adolescents and families of the Black community. What I found most interesting about my interactions with these families across settings (i.e., community clinics and soup kitchens) was that trauma seemed to be an underlying thread among many individuals. It exerted powerful control over their lives and affected how they received help. Many families had difficulties with mental health resulting from their trauma exposures and understood that help was required; however, many were distrustful of seeking services due to the detrimental effects of misdiagnoses and the historical damage of unethical studies within the community. Prior to joining Hofstra University's Clinical Psychology Ph.D. Program, I amassed experiences working with Black and brown families impacted by trauma across multiple settings. For example, I worked with Black youth and families in the Baltimore City Foster Care division and organized a motherhood circle to re-engage non-offending teenage birth mothers in the process of reunifying with their children. I collaborated on research within a local Baltimore high school to engage adolescents who presented with ADHD and depression symptoms in evidence-based treatment. The high school is classified as a high-risk school where both suicide and homicide rates are at an all-time high. The findings from this research suggested that it was not enough to implement a standardized, evidence-based treatment without examining the ongoing violence within the school, addressing the impact of interpersonal trauma, and integrating unique cultural factors. I also volunteered with Catholic Charities in the organization's Trafficking Victims Assistance Program, which provided services for children and adult survivors of human trafficking. I assisted young adults by organizing a mentorship program to create a space to heal with other survivors. These experiences cemented my commitment to address stigma surrounding help-seeking and provide the necessary tools to marginalized communities for self-advocacy. My ultimate goal is to work with children, adolescents, and their families coping with trauma within Black and Indigenous communities to alleviate trauma-related mental health problems and bolster community-level resilience. As a clinical psychology student at Hofstra University, I now have opportunities to train directly with these communities. For example, I have completed the initial training in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), current gold standard evidence-based intervention for childhood trauma. Following this training, I am currently the lead Research Assistant on a project that aims to evaluate adaptations to TF-CBT for Black families who experienced interpersonal and racial traumas. My plan is to continue collaborating with community centers and key stakeholders to create sustainable partnerships in the hopes that these centers will disseminate the needed information within their communities. I believe that my lived experience and professional experiences within and outside of my training program will equip me for the challenge ahead.

Embarking on my academic journey, I faced numerous obstacles that tested my perseverance and shaped my pursuit of success. The transient nature of a military lifestyle presented a challenge, disrupting the establishment of a stable academic foundation. Adapting to new schools and environments became a recurring theme, demanding resilience and flexibility. Despite maintaining academic proficiency, a persistent feeling of missing pieces hindered the realization of my full potential. As my education progressed, challenges intensified, reaching a pivotal moment at the age of 16 when I received my first diagnosis. Initially misdiagnosed with dyslexia, I grappled with the repercussions of navigating the educational landscape with an incorrect understanding of my learning style. The misdiagnosis not only impacted my academic performance but also took a toll on my self-esteem. Confronting the stigma associated with my diagnosis became a daily battle as I faced bullying and societal misconceptions about learning differences. Fearing ostracization, I initially refused accommodations that could have facilitated my learning, inadvertently exacerbating academic struggles and perpetuating a cycle of self-doubt. The turning point in my journey came with the realization that embracing my unique learning style was crucial for achieving my educational goals. Despite the challenges of graduate school and the perceived limitations of my learning difference, I pursued my dream of becoming a psychologist. Upon entering graduate school, I encountered the hurdle of denied accommodations, prompting a revisit to the diagnostic process. This led to the revelation that I had been misdiagnosed with dyslexia. The accurate diagnosis, ADHD inattentive type, explained many of my challenges and opened the door to appropriate support. Armed with this newfound understanding, I advocated for myself, securing the accommodations necessary for optimal academic performance. My ultimate goal is to make a meaningful impact by working with children, adolescents, and their families in marginalized communities, addressing trauma and fostering resilience. Despite detours and setbacks, I am now a second-year graduate student in the Clinical Psychology PhD program at Hofstra University, actively pursuing this vision. My passion to alleviate trauma-related mental health problems within resource-limited communities is fueled by personal struggles that have granted me a unique perspective. This allows me to connect deeply with individuals facing similar challenges. I believe that my journey, marked by resilience, self-discovery, and advocacy, positions me to contribute meaningfully to the field of clinical psychology. In conclusion, my path to academic achievement has been marked by resilience in the face of constant change, the impact of misdiagnosis, the stigma surrounding learning differences, and the pursuit of self-acceptance. Overcoming these obstacles has not only defined my academic journey but has also fueled my commitment to making a positive impact in the lives of those facing similar challenges. With a clear vision of my ultimate goal and the lessons learned from my experiences, I am determined to contribute to the well-being of marginalized communities through my work as a clinical psychologist.

In my academic journey, the challenges of a military lifestyle and a misdiagnosis cast shadows on my pursuit of success. At 16, the revelation of ADHD inattentive type reshaped my path, emphasizing the importance of embracing unique learning styles. Despite facing stigma and accommodation denials, my determination led me to advocate for the support I needed. Now a second-year graduate student in Hofstra University's Clinical Psychology Ph.D. program, my passion lies in alleviating trauma-related mental health issues within marginalized communities. My personal struggles equip me with a unique perspective to connect with individuals facing similar challenges. My journey, marked by resilience and advocacy, positions me to contribute meaningfully to the field of clinical psychology, fostering inclusivity and support for individuals with disabilities.

My journey into the field of clinical psychology is an culmination of personal experiences, a dedication to marginalized communities, and a fervent commitment to addressing mental health disparities. Growing up in a military family, constant relocations shaped my understanding of community building, fostering a sense of duty to participate in volunteer work wherever we were stationed. As a Black-Indigenous individual, creating space in settings resistant to our identities became a challenge, prompting an early recognition of the necessity to hold space for marginalized identities. From a young age, I embraced the role of a helper, a "gift" cultivated within my family. Despite the limitations of youth, my early volunteer work included greeting patrons, guiding children, and packing essential items for those in need. This early foray set the stage for a deeper exploration of my role as a helper, leading me to work with adolescents and families within the Black community. It became evident that trauma was a pervasive thread among many individuals, exerting powerful control over their lives and influencing how they sought help. Before joining Hofstra University's Clinical Psychology Ph.D. Program, my journey involved working with Black and brown families impacted by trauma across various settings. From the Baltimore City Foster Care division to a local high-risk school, the stark realities of trauma's impact unfolded. The culmination of experiences, including volunteering with survivors of human trafficking, solidified my commitment to addressing stigma surrounding help-seeking and equipping marginalized communities with tools for self-advocacy. Despite a rise in psychologists of color providing culturally competent services, disparities persist within Black and Indigenous communities, particularly concerning trauma. The events of 2020 underscored the compounding impact of racial and interpersonal trauma, magnifying existing disparities in healthcare. Generational trauma, coupled with stigmatized help-seeking, persists in Black communities, resulting in increased mental health issues and mortality rates. In Indigenous communities, the opioid epidemic exacerbates substance use, hindered by structural barriers and a lack of culturally responsive mental health resources. Recognizing these disparities, my ultimate goal is to work with children, adolescents, and families within Black and Indigenous communities, alleviating trauma-related mental health problems and fostering community-level resilience. As a clinical psychology student at Hofstra, I seized opportunities to directly engage with these communities. Completing the initial training in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), I now lead a research project evaluating adaptations of TF-CBT for Black families experiencing interpersonal and racial traumas. My plan involves ongoing collaboration with community centers and key stakeholders to create sustainable partnerships. By disseminating crucial information within these communities through trusted leaders, I aim to address cultural mistrust and promote help-seeking behaviors. As a doctoral student, my status lends credibility to obtaining opportunities for meaningful partnerships. The culmination of my lived experience and professional journey within and outside my training program equips me for the challenges ahead. In choosing this career path, my vision extends beyond the confines of academia. It is a vision of dismantling barriers, fostering resilience, and nurturing mental health well-being within marginalized communities. This journey is not merely a career choice but a lifelong commitment to bridging the gap and creating a future where mental health care is equitable for all.

Title: Paving the Way for Culturally Responsive Mental Health Care In envisioning my dream job, I see myself at the intersection of advocacy, research, and direct community engagement, working tirelessly to address the disparities in mental health care within Black and Indigenous communities. My dream job is not merely a career; it's a lifelong commitment to dismantling barriers, fostering resilience, and empowering marginalized communities. Growing up in a military family, I learned the art of creating communities in the face of constant movement. This early lesson, coupled with my Black-Indigenous identity, instilled in me the importance of holding space for marginalized identities. Being born into a family of helpers, it became second nature to channel this "gift" toward those with marginalized identities. Despite the limitations of my youth, I engaged in volunteer work, setting the foundation for my future as a helper. As I grew into my role, I ventured into working with Black families, particularly adolescents and those grappling with trauma. What stood out in my interactions was the pervasive impact of trauma on individuals' lives, influencing their approach to seeking help. Many recognized the need for assistance but harbored distrust due to historical misdiagnoses and the lingering effects of unethical studies within the community. Before entering Hofstra University's Clinical Psychology Ph.D. program, I accumulated diverse experiences working with Black and brown families impacted by trauma. From organizing motherhood circles to researching mental health challenges in high-risk schools, my journey has been one of active engagement and understanding. Volunteering with survivors of human trafficking reinforced my commitment to addressing the stigma surrounding help-seeking and providing tools for self-advocacy. My dream job crystallizes around the pivotal goal of working with children, adolescents, and families coping with trauma within Black and Indigenous communities. The disparities in trauma exposures, coupled with a lack of access to culturally responsive care, underscore the urgency of this mission. The events of 2020 laid bare the deep-seated trauma and disparities within healthcare, necessitating a renewed commitment to transformative mental healthcare. While psychologists of color have made strides, persistent disparities demand a proactive approach. Generational trauma, racial injustices, and stigma hinder help-seeking behaviors in Black and Indigenous communities. My dream job involves addressing these disparities head-on, fostering cultural competence, and creating community-based partnerships to bridge the gap. As a clinical psychology student at Hofstra, I have opportunities to engage with these communities directly. Completing the Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) training and leading research on its adaptations for Black families are steps toward this dream. Collaborating with community centers and stakeholders, I aim to create sustainable partnerships that empower communities with crucial information. Recognizing the significance of community leaders, I believe they are critical conduits for disseminating information effectively. My dream job is not just about personal fulfillment; it's about leveraging my lived experiences and professional journey to effect meaningful change. The challenges within and outside my training program have fortified my commitment to this cause. Armed with credibility as a doctoral student, I envision a future where culturally responsive mental health care is not just a dream but a tangible reality for Black and Indigenous communities.

Imagine living a life where every stride you take contributes to positive change within marginalized communities. For me, this vision is not just a dream but a purposeful pursuit rooted in a lifetime of experiences and a commitment to addressing disparities in mental health care. Growing up in a military family, I learned the importance of building communities, especially for those with marginalized identities. This early lesson fueled my inclination to be a helper, to create spaces for those often overlooked. Even in my youth, I engaged in volunteer work, greeting patrons, assisting children, and packing necessities. These experiences marked the genesis of a journey toward a life dedicated to serving others. As I delved deeper into my role as a helper, I gravitated towards working with adolescents and families within the Black community. Across diverse settings like community clinics and soup kitchens, a common thread emerged—trauma. Trauma exerted powerful control over lives, influencing how individuals sought and received help. Yet, a prevailing distrust of mental health services lingered due to historical misdiagnoses and unethical studies within the community. Prior to joining Hofstra University's Clinical Psychology Ph.D. Program, I accumulated experiences working with Black and brown families impacted by trauma. From organizing motherhood circles to collaborating on research in high-risk schools, I witnessed the pervasive effects of trauma on mental health. Volunteering with survivors of human trafficking reinforced the importance of creating safe spaces for healing within marginalized communities. My ultimate goal is to address the stigma surrounding help-seeking and empower marginalized communities with the tools for self-advocacy. The disparities in trauma exposures, compounded by a lack of access to culturally responsive care, underscore the urgency of my mission. The tumultuous events of 2020 further highlighted the impact of racial and interpersonal trauma, magnifying existing disparities within healthcare. Acknowledging the rise of psychologists of color, I recognize persistent disparities, especially in trauma within Black and Indigenous communities. Generational trauma, racial injustices, and stigma impede help-seeking behaviors. As a clinical psychology student at Hofstra, I have the opportunity to engage directly with these communities, undergoing training in trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT). Currently, I lead research evaluating adaptations of TF-CBT for Black families who have experienced interpersonal and racial traumas. However, true change requires collaboration and sustainable partnerships with community centers and stakeholders. My plan is to leverage my status as a doctoral student, collaborating with community leaders to disseminate crucial information within their communities. Through lived experiences and professional training, I aim to bridge the gap in mental health disparities, ensuring that trauma-informed care is not just a dream but a tangible reality within marginalized communities. In this envisioned life, every step forward contributes to dismantling barriers, fostering resilience, and nurturing communities toward mental health well-being. The dream is not just for myself but for a future where every individual, regardless of their background, has equitable access to transformative mental health care.

Embarking on my undergraduate journey, I encountered a formidable adversary that would shape both my academic performance and personal life: my mental health. The struggles were palpable — skipping classes, neglecting meals, and grappling with panic attacks. These were not mere academic stressors; they were indicators of a more profound internal battle that significantly impacted my grades, presenting a stark contrast to the tranquility of my sheltered upbringing. In this turbulent phase, mental health discussions, once distant, became an integral part of my narrative. The echoes of a psychology class resonated, emphasizing the universal nature of facing depression. Two years later, the profound reality of those words struck me as I mourned the loss of my grandfather. Despite my family's strong belief in mental health care and my academic background, I found myself ensnared in the clutches of an affliction I never anticipated. Denial and fear led me to dismiss the somatic symptoms of depression. To cope, I became an overachiever, masking my inner turmoil both from others and myself. This pattern persisted through my journey in graduate school, where my pursuit of a psychology degree transformed into a battleground between projecting normalcy and an internal storm. The turning point emerged during a planning session for children confronting depression. Faced with the irony of my situation, I could no longer be a hypocrite to the cause I championed. Acknowledging my need for help, I embarked on the arduous journey of seeking treatment. The struggle persisted, casting its shadow across every facet of my life — relationships, family dynamics, faith, and academics. However, confronting my reality became the first step towards reclaiming control. The non-linear journey to mental well-being demanded acceptance, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to self-discovery. While some days presented more significant challenges than others, I discovered the significance of incremental progress. Embracing imperfection evolved into a powerful source of empowerment, equipping me with the necessary tools to confront challenges head-on. As I reflect on these challenges, I recognize the profound impact on my academic performance. Skipping classes, barely eating, and enduring panic attacks took a toll on my grades. The chaos within my mind manifested itself in the chaos of my academic records, a stark reminder of the intimate connection between mental health and academic success. Throughout my undergraduate years, my mental health battles were veiled beneath a facade of normalcy. It wasn't just a struggle to maintain good grades; it was a fight to maintain my sanity amidst the rigors of academia. The demands of coursework, coupled with the internal turmoil, created a perfect storm that significantly impacted my ability to perform at my best. One of the most challenging aspects was the isolation that accompanied my mental health struggles. I withdrew from classes, skipped social gatherings, and distanced myself from friends and family. The weight of depression and anxiety made every interaction feel like an uphill battle. The more I retreated, the more my academic performance suffered, creating a destructive cycle that seemed insurmountable. Therapy became a safe space where I could untangle the knots in my mind. Medication provided a stabilizing force, allowing me to navigate the academic landscape with greater clarity. Additionally, I embraced mindfulness practices that became anchors in moments of turbulence. The journey to making mental health a priority in academia is ongoing. It is marked by both setbacks and triumphs. Each semester presents new challenges, but with a fortified sense of self-awareness and a toolbox of coping mechanisms, I navigate the academic landscape with greater resilience.

Throughout my life, success has been achieved with the assistance of unsung heroes. Growing up in a military family, I was taught the value of community. This mindset has shaped my understanding of success as a collaborative effort to support each other. I realized that success, for me, meant becoming a professional helper, which was nurtured within the various communities I encountered during our military travels. Success was not just an individual accomplishment, but a shared journey of overcoming struggles and celebrating victories within one's circle. Working with adolescents and families in community-based organizations helped me to learn from individuals who guided me towards the path of success. Before starting my Clinical Psychology Ph.D. program at Hofstra University, I worked with youth and families in the Baltimore City Foster Care division. I organized a motherhood circle to re-engage non-offending teenage birth mothers in the process of reunifying with their children. The lessons learned here were invaluable, and encouraged me to remain steadfast in my pursuit of making a difference. Collaborating on research within a local Baltimore high school provided me with insights into the lives of adolescents facing ADHD and depression symptoms. The students and school personnel shared stories that underscored the vital role of community in navigating challenges. Their experiences illuminated the transformative power of supportive networks. Volunteering with Catholic Charities in the Trafficking Victims Assistance Program was a poignant chapter in my journey. Here, I assisted young adults by organizing a mentorship program that provided a space for healing and growth among survivors of human trafficking. The unsung heroes of this program, the survivors themselves, taught me about resilience, strength, and the profound impact of empathy. Their stories reinforced my belief in the importance of building strong communities to foster healing and support. These unsung heroes, from teenage birth mothers to high school students and survivors of human trafficking, and many more, collectively shaped my understanding of success. Their stories, wisdom, and resilience guided me toward the ultimate goal of working with children, adolescents, and their families coping with trauma. My vision of success is intertwined with theirs, and my aspiration is to be an unsung hero in the narratives of those I aim to help. The path to success is illuminated by the wisdom and experiences of the unsung heroes who cross our paths. Each encounter, whether in the realm of foster care, high-risk schools, or trafficking assistance programs, has contributed to my growth and determination. As I navigate the challenges of graduate school and beyond, I carry with me the profound lessons learned from these unsung heroes, propelling me toward my goal of making a positive impact within communities coping with trauma. Furthermore, the Redefining Victory Scholarship will play a key role in easing financial hurdles along my academic journey. Specifically, it will assist with essential needs like transportation, books, rent, and gas for commuting. The Redefining Victory Scholarship is not just financial aid; it will play a crucial role in supporting me practically, making my academic journey smoother and more focused.

Title: Navigating the Depths: A Personal Journey Through Mental Health Challenges I grew up with a pretty sheltered life. I often marveled at the testimonies shared within the walls of our church—a testament to triumph over life's tribulations. Little did I know that life, in its unpredictable nature, would soon challenge the tranquility of my existence. Luckily, as a member of a church-going family, discussions on mental health were not foreign. However, I was wary that I would become one of those people who gave a testimony - that I, too, would have to struggle. The echoes of a psychology class resounded in my mind as the professor declared that everyone would face depression at least once in their lifetime—a normalcy that would pass. Fast forward two years, and the profundity of those words would strike a chord within me as my grandfather departed from this world. Despite my background in psychology and the belief in mental health care within my family, I found myself ensnared in the clutches of an affliction I never thought would happen to me. The initial episode of depression manifested itself, and I, perhaps out of denial or fear, dismissed the somatic symptoms that gripped me. In an attempt to conceal my pain, I became an overachiever, masking the turmoil from both myself and those around me. My journey through graduate school, ironically pursuing a degree in psychology, became a battleground between the facade of normalcy and the chaos within. The turning point arrived during a planning session for a child diagnosed with depression. Faced with the irony of my own situation, I could no longer be a hypocrite while aiding others in their journey. It was time to confront my truth. Admitting to myself that I needed help, I embarked on the journey of seeking treatment. To this day, the struggle persists, impacting every facet of my life—relationships, family dynamics, faith, and academic pursuits. The indifference I displayed towards my symptoms cast a shadow over my vision. However, the decision to confront my reality was a pivotal one. Acknowledging the mess I had allowed to fester became the first step towards reclaiming control. The journey towards mental well-being is neither linear nor swift. It demands acceptance, resilience, and a commitment to self-discovery. I find solace in the power I now wield over the chaos that once threatened to consume me. Naming and understanding my struggles have granted me the agency to shape my narrative and find strength in vulnerability. As I continue to navigate the ebbs and flows of my mental health, I am learning to appreciate the significance of progress, no matter how incremental. The acceptance of imperfection has become a source of empowerment. While some days are undoubtedly better than others, I am now equipped with the tools to face the challenges head-on. In this essay, I share my journey not as a tale of despair but as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. It is a narrative of acceptance, healing, and the pursuit of self-discovery. I have learned that by acknowledging our vulnerabilities, we unveil the strength that lies within. The journey is ongoing, but with each step, I am forging a path towards a brighter, more authentic existence.

Title: Navigating the Depths: A Personal Journey Through Mental Health Challenges I grew up with a pretty sheltered life. I often marveled at the testimonies shared within the walls of our church—a testament to triumph over life's tribulations. Little did I know that life, in its unpredictable nature, would soon challenge the tranquility of my existence. Luckily, as a member of a church-going family, discussions on mental health were not foreign. However, I was wary that I would become one of those people who gave a testimony - that I, too, would have to struggle. The echoes of a psychology class resounded in my mind as the professor declared that everyone would face depression at least once in their lifetime—a normalcy that would pass. Fast forward two years, and the profundity of those words would strike a chord within me as my grandfather departed from this world. Despite my background in psychology and the belief in mental health care within my family, I found myself ensnared in the clutches of an affliction I never thought would happen to me. The initial episode of depression manifested itself, and I, perhaps out of denial or fear, dismissed the somatic symptoms that gripped me. In an attempt to conceal my pain, I became an overachiever, masking the turmoil from both myself and those around me. My journey through graduate school, ironically pursuing a degree in psychology, became a battleground between the facade of normalcy and the chaos within. The turning point arrived during a planning session for a child diagnosed with depression. Faced with the irony of my own situation, I could no longer be a hypocrite while aiding others in their journey. It was time to confront my truth. Admitting to myself that I needed help, I embarked on the journey of seeking treatment. To this day, the struggle persists, impacting every facet of my life—relationships, family dynamics, faith, and academic pursuits. The indifference I displayed towards my symptoms cast a shadow over my vision. However, the decision to confront my reality was a pivotal one. Acknowledging the mess I had allowed to fester became the first step towards reclaiming control. The journey towards mental well-being is neither linear nor swift. It demands acceptance, resilience, and a commitment to self-discovery. I find solace in the power I now wield over the chaos that once threatened to consume me. Naming and understanding my struggles have granted me the agency to shape my narrative and find strength in vulnerability. As I continue to navigate the ebbs and flows of my mental health, I am learning to appreciate the significance of progress, no matter how incremental. The acceptance of imperfection has become a source of empowerment. While some days are undoubtedly better than others, I am now equipped with the tools to face the challenges head-on. In this essay, I share my journey not as a tale of despair but as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. It is a narrative of acceptance, healing, and the pursuit of self-discovery. I have learned that by acknowledging our vulnerabilities, we unveil the strength that lies within. The journey is ongoing, but with each step, I am forging a path towards a brighter, more authentic existence.

Being raised in a military family, in which moving constantly was a way of life, I was instilled with the idea of finding and building communities by finding opportunities to participate in volunteer work wherever we were stationed. As a Black-Indigenous family, it was challenging to create space in settings that were opposed to our identities. However, at a young age, I learned that holding space for marginalized identities was necessary for myself and others. Being born within a family of helpers, it was natural for me to cultivate that "gift" and pursue my pathway. Although my young age limited the scope of my volunteer work. In time I grew into my role as a helper and began working with adolescents and families of the Black community. What I found most interesting about many of the settings (i.e., community clinics, soup kitchens) was that trauma seemed to be an underlying thread among many individuals. Many families had difficulties with mental health resulting from their trauma exposures and understood that help was required; however, many were distrustful of seeking services due to the detrimental effects of misdiagnoses and the historical damage of unethical studies within the community. My life has been committed to working within my communities; I have involved myself with being selective in the projects I join, keeping this overall goal in mind. Prior to joining Hofstra University’s Clinical Psychology Ph.D. Program, I amassed experiences working with Black and brown families at a local developmental clinic that specializes in providing treatment at a low cost. For example, I worked with Black youth and families in the Baltimore City Foster Care division and organized a motherhood circle to re-engage non-offending teenage birth mothers in the process of reunifying with their children. I collaborated on research within a local Baltimore high school to engage adolescents who presented with ADHD and depression symptoms in evidence-based treatment. The high school is classified as a high-risk school where both suicide and homicide rates are at an all-time high. The findings from this research suggested that it was not enough to implement a standardized, evidence-based treatment without examining the ongoing violence within the school, addressing the impact of interpersonal trauma, and integrating the unique cultural factors. It has been my life commitment to provide the necessary tools to marginalized communities for self-advocacy to break the stigma surrounding seeking help. As a clinical psychology student at Hofstra University, I now have opportunities to train directly within these communities. For example, I have completed the initial training in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), current gold standard evidence-based intervention for childhood trauma. Following this training, I am currently the lead Research Assistant on a project that aims to evaluate adaptations to TF-CBT for Black families who experienced interpersonal and racial traumas. My plan is to aid and collaborate with community centers and key stakeholders to create sustainable partnerships in the hopes that these centers will disseminate the needed information within their communities. Due to community leaders' status, I believe the information would be best received through them and will encourage people to seek more information pertaining to treatment. This joint effort with community and cultural leaders will also influence the development of evidence-based, culturally sensitive programs to aid in outreach and psychoeducation programs. Lastly, normalizing help-seeking behaviors, the prevalence of trauma within the communities, and the options that are available to close the disparities within society. I believe that my lived experience and professional experiences within and outside of my training program will equip me for the challenge ahead.

Growing up in a military family and constantly moving, volunteer work was one method to ground us in our communities. By the age of 6, I was volunteering with my family at food pantries, and soup kitchens, and as a teen progressed to tutoring children experiencing homelessness. My path has always led me to serve in underprivileged areas and populations, and my goal is to continue that path and refine it. Early in high school, I was offered the opportunity to enroll in an Advanced Placement Psychology course. And for the first time, I knew it would be novel to help using psychology -- working with children and adolescents in under-served communities. So, I chose to study Human Services at Prince George’s Community College (PGCC). I spent two years working in underprivileged communities as an assistant clinician at PGCC’s developmental clinic. During that time, I tutored children who experienced homelessness and learning differences. Upon graduation from PGCC, I was offered multiple scholarships for my remaining two years of undergraduate education. Because Social Work was fully funded, I accepted the offer. However, while on my wider path interning at the Baltimore Department of Social Services in the Foster Care division, I encountered an array of children with different diagnosed psychopathologies and found myself wondering more about possible intervention treatments. Almost immediately, I had a case that caused me to realize I was providing case management but could not help in the capacity I desired - working as a clinician. Working with the families, I also realized I wanted to examine the disorders, underlying mechanisms, and potential long-term outcomes. So, with that desire, I resigned from the Social Work program and found my way to psychology – still on my path but redirecting. That change led me to apply and be accepted into the University of Maryland’s Masters of Psychological Science (MPS). Because my undergraduate degree was in Social Work, I worked to bridge the information gaps needed to complete a graduate program in clinical psychology. While attending the MPS program, I was able to hone my interviewing skills and excelled in my Interventions course for children and adolescents. Additionally, I expanded my research skills as I volunteered at Maryland’s ADHD Lab as a graduate research assistant under Dr. Chronis-Tuscano and assisted in multiple projects within the lab. Most of the projects were focused on my target populations, children and adolescents. One of the projects, Behaviorally Enhancing Adolescents' Mood in School (BEAM-S) project helps African-American adolescents in Baltimore City better manage ADHD and depression. I also worked with the Treating Parent and their Children (TPAC) program, which aids in improving parents’ and their children’s ADHD symptoms. Being in a position to connect youth and families to needed services has been an extraordinary experience. I am interested in working with children and adolescents with a focus on trauma, particularly childhood trauma, and understanding trauma-related psychopathology. I believe this scholarship will aid me in my journey to serving historically marginalized groups and constantly striving to be culturally competent. Working in both high-risk and low-risk populations, I have gained more clarity in my understanding of the issues these populations face. Receiving this scholarship will enable me to achieve my goal of helping children and adolescents as a clinical psychologist.

Growing up in a military family and constantly moving, volunteering and sports were methods to ground us into our community. By age 6, I took my first golf lesson with First Tee of Washington D.C at East Potomac Golf Course. My parents always stressed that most life lessons and business transactions were on the golf course or the tennis courts. Given that I am enrolled in a doctoral-level clinical psychology program, I might be limited with business transactions; however, I learned so much about the art of golf and a few things about myself throughout the years. Despite all my family's moves throughout my life, golf lessons and tournaments were constant. However, I did not immediately fall in love with the game. I would complain about missing other extracurricular activities or that too much walking was involved. I only recognized the therapeutic element of the sport once I was in middle school. The driving range became such a tremendous therapeutic tool that it allowed me to disassociate from academic challenges, freed my mind, and improved my golf swing to my coach's delight. With almost five years of experience, I did not feel confident in my abilities; I shied away from tournaments and competitions. However, I felt comfortable on the range and took the occasional 6-9 holes I was familiar with. Most of the sports I was more familiar with always involved group cooperation; in a group, it was easier to hide imperfections, and the win or loss was always taken as a group, unlike golf, where even golf teams could feel isolated. Eventually, my coach challenged me to compete in a tournament. He encouraged me to trust my knowledge of the sport and muscle memory. I did not place, but I found how enjoyable the competition could be and, although not business, the friendships that were created. I also found it empowering to play solo, and the pride of a win or loss, to know I gave it my all. I improved drastically once I started playing competitively because, at times, I could implement techniques I saw in my next play. Now, I am 24 with a lengthy amount of years, golf courses, coaches, and a set of clubs, since my first golf lesson; my love for the game continues. I never knew how fortunate I was to be able to have those experiences during my early childhood. I am appreciative of my parents for keeping me in the sport; it is one of the reasons why I contributed to my level of persistence. Now a doctoral student, I still find time to hit the range occasionally; I was fortunate enough to find a place where several local golf courses are nearby. In my spare time, I explain the rules and etiquette of a sport I hold near and dear to my heart.

A song that holds an important message in this particular chapter of my life is "Growing Pains" by Alessia Cara. I recently turned 24, accepted an offer into a Clinical Psychology doctoral program, and moved out of the house and my home state. With so many stark changes within a period of four months, learning how to "adult" without the physical support of my parents and community has been challenging. Therefore, this song has truly been my anthem these past couple of months. The songwriter speaks to the changes and difficulties of growing up and how the intrusive thoughts of alternative options and worries keep one up at night. As a clinical psychology trainee, I understand the importance of validation, and this song is so validating for the constant mini-struggles that occur in the early twenties. However, what I enjoy most about the song is the ambiguity of the song; the songwriter understands that with every chapter of life, humans are constantly growing, changing, and evolving, and no matter what stage, growth comes with discomfort, and it is okay. The song does not speak to the triumph over the discomfort; the songwriter allows the listener to engage with the stage she is in, which is why I enjoy this song. It simply allows the listener the reflect on the beauty of the present stage and how were all connected in the beautiful struggles of life.

During my freshman year of college, I remember I was enrolled in a general psychology class; the professor had discussed the impact of mental disorders and how common they were within society. He asked everyone to raise their hand if they experienced depression, and many students' hands were raised around the room. He looked at those with their hands and stated that if we continue living, we will. I remember internally scoffing at his sentencing of the class. Within two years, I experienced my first known trauma; I received news that my grandmother had passed away. It was the first death in the family of someone I knew and loved. My grandmother and I were similar; we shared the same birthday, shared similar facial features, and a wry sense of humor. Upon hearing the news, my world was shattered, and I had my first panic attack. Prior to the funeral, I struggled with intrusive thoughts and had constant anxiety. After her funeral, the sense of community and the comfort of my family seems to feel the void. My family stuck to our annual summer trips, which allowed us to avoid the thought of loss. Despite my family being staunch advocates for mental health and therapy and being an aspiring psychologist, I was reluctant to seek help. Finally, my mother offered to find a therapist to schedule the appointment, and I expressed that I was okay despite having intrusive thoughts almost every night, which triggered panic attacks. I learned unconventional coping skills such as touching my wall or something cold to ground myself. My grandfather passed in less than a year, and I was right back at square, except I had become more numb. I assured my family that I was okay, and I hyperfocused my way to finishing my Associate's degree. In the fall of 2018, I transferred to a four-year institution to complete my Bachelor's degree within months of my grandfather's passing and without having properly grieved either of their deaths. My grief manifested itself as depression and anxiety. It became secluding myself from others, missing classes, constant panic attacks, denial, and overall numbness. Despite all of these symptoms, coupled with my acquired knowledge of these disorders, I was still in denial. Two moments finally made me realize that I needed to seek help. First, I volunteered for a Mental Health First Aid class to earn extra credit in a class. I took a picture of the manual and sent the image to my friend, and captioned it, "Ironic, isn't it." Even jokingly, I need knew I was the one that should have been on the receiving side. The final straw was facing a panic attack while driving while on the phone with my mother; it was then that I knew I had to face my grief. Toward the end of school, I penned a long message to my friend, both new and old apologizing for any uncommon behaviors, and wrote to new friends that I am a little different from the behaviors I had displayed over the past semester. I thanked them for their continued support on my journey to wholeness. My journey to wholeness is a constant struggle, but I have made so improvements. My heart now goes out to other people in similar situations struggling to ask for help. I am also grateful that my family recognized the symptoms, pushed for therapy, and respected my wish to hold off. Finally, I am grateful for the experience; through it, I am able to empathize with others and hopefully allow my lived experience to better guide my perspective to serve others as a future psychologist.

During my freshman year of college, I remember I was enrolled in a general psychology class; the professor had discussed the impact of mental disorders and how common they were within society. He asked everyone to raise their hand if they experienced depression, and many students' hands were raised around the room. He looked at those with their hands and stated that if we continue living, we will. I remember internally scoffing at his sentencing of the class. Within two years, I experienced my first known trauma; I received news that my grandmother had passed away. It was the first death in the family of someone I knew and loved. My grandmother and I were similar; we shared the same birthday, shared similar facial features, and a wry sense of humor. Upon hearing the news, my world was shattered, and I had my first panic attack. Prior to the funeral, I struggled with intrusive thoughts and had constant anxiety. After her funeral, the sense of community and the comfort of my family seems to feel the void. My family stuck to our annual summer trips, which allowed us to avoid the thought of loss. Despite my family being staunch advocates for mental health and therapy and being an aspiring psychologist, I was reluctant to seek help. Finally, my mother offered to find a therapist to schedule the appointment, and I expressed that I was okay despite having intrusive thoughts almost every night, which triggered panic attacks. I learned unconventional coping skills such as touching my wall or something cold to ground myself. My grandfather passed in less than a year, and I was right back at square, except I had become more numb. I assured my family that I was okay, and I hyperfocused my way to finishing my Associate's degree. In the fall of 2018, I transferred to a four-year institution to complete my Bachelor's degree within months of my grandfather's passing and without having properly grieved either of their deaths. My grief manifested itself as depression and anxiety. It became secluding myself from others, missing classes, constant panic attacks, denial, and overall numbness. Despite all of these symptoms, coupled with my acquired knowledge of these disorders, I was still in denial. Two moments finally made me realize that I needed to seek help. First, I volunteered for a Mental Health First Aid class to earn extra credit in a class. I took a picture of the manual and sent the image to my friend, and captioned it, "Ironic, isn't it." Even jokingly, I need knew I was the one that should have been on the receiving side. The final straw was facing a panic attack while driving while on the phone with my mother; it was then that I knew I had to face my grief. Toward the end of school, I penned a long message to my friend, both new and old apologizing for any uncommon behaviors, and wrote to new friends that I am a little different from the behaviors I had displayed over the past semester. I thanked them for their continued support on my journey to wholeness. My journey to wholeness is a constant struggle, but I have made so improvements. My heart now goes out to other people in similar situations struggling to ask for help. I am also grateful that my family recognized the symptoms, pushed for therapy, and respected my wish to hold off. Finally, I am grateful for the experience; through it, I am able to empathize with others and hopefully allow my lived experience to better guide my perspective to serve others as a future psychologist.

I am interested in working with children and adolescents, focusing on trauma, particularly childhood trauma, and understanding trauma-related psychopathology. I am also dedicated to serving historically marginalized groups and striving to be culturally competent.

I am interested in working with children and adolescents, focusing on trauma, particularly childhood trauma, and understanding trauma-related psychopathology. I am also dedicated to serving historically marginalized groups and striving to be culturally competent. Working in high-risk and low-risk populations, I have gained more clarity in my understanding of these populations' issues. While volunteering in various settings, I was able to establish my career goals to obtain a doctorate in clinical psychology and in hope of returning to marginalized communities with resources to better serve within the community and advocate on their behalf. Attending graduate school at Hofstra University is an environment to hone and acquire new skills to better prepare me for research and clients. I am conducting research at the CAPP Lab, which provides individual psychotherapy sessions and conjoint parent-child sessions offering behavior therapy, cognitive-behavior therapy, and play therapy. Also, I am a student in Hofstra's trauma lab, which specializes in interpersonal forms of childhood trauma that shape child development/mental health trajectories and address inequities in intervention access and engagement for trauma-exposed youth from marginalized communities. The combination of these labs is a stepping-stone goal for me, as I wanted to be in a lab that reflected my population of interest but could also support my endeavors. I am eager to better myself as a researcher and clinician to offer and aid marginalized communities who cannot readily access the necessary resources to heal trauma. Throughout my journey, I have taken on many labels, but at the core, my label is always a helper, and that is what I insist on keeping as I move through this next chapter of academia.

I am interested in working with children and adolescents, focusing on trauma, particularly childhood trauma, and understanding trauma-related psychopathology. I am also dedicated to serving historically marginalized groups and striving to be culturally competent. Working in high-risk and low-risk populations, I have gained more clarity in my understanding of these populations' issues. While volunteering in various settings, I was able to establish my career goals to obtain a doctorate in clinical psychology and in hope of returning to marginalized communities with resources to better serve within the community and advocate on their behalf. Attending graduate school at Hofstra University is an environment to hone and acquire new skills to better prepare me for research and clients. I am conducting research at the CAPP Lab, which provides individual psychotherapy sessions and conjoint parent-child sessions offering behavior therapy, cognitive-behavior therapy, and play therapy. Also, I am a student in Hofstra's trauma lab, which specializes in interpersonal forms of childhood trauma that shape child development/mental health trajectories and address inequities in intervention access and engagement for trauma-exposed youth from marginalized communities. The combination of these labs is a stepping-stone goal for me, as I wanted to be in a lab that reflected my population of interest but could also support my endeavors. I am eager to better myself as a researcher and clinician to offer and aid marginalized communities who cannot readily access the necessary resources to heal trauma. Throughout my journey, I have taken on many labels, but at the core, my label is always a helper, and that is what I insist on keeping as I move through this next chapter of academia.

During my freshman year of college, I remember I was enrolled in a general psychology class; the professor had discussed the impact of mental disorders and how common they were within society. He asked everyone to raise their hand if they experienced depression, and many students' hands were raised around the room. He looked at those with their hands and stated that if we continue living, we will. I remember internally scoffing at his sentencing of the class. Within two years, I experienced my first known trauma; I received news that my grandmother had passed away. It was the first death in the family of someone I knew and loved. My grandmother and I were similar; we shared the same birthday, shared similar facial features, and a wry sense of humor. Upon hearing the news, my world was shattered, and I had my first panic attack. Prior to the funeral, I struggled with intrusive thoughts and had constant anxiety. After her funeral, the sense of community and the comfort of my family seems to feel the void. My family stuck to our annual summer trips, which allowed us to avoid the thought of loss. Despite my family being staunch advocates for mental health and therapy and being an aspiring psychologist, I was reluctant to seek help. Finally, my mother offered to find a therapist to schedule the appointment, and I expressed that I was okay despite having intrusive thoughts almost every night, which triggered panic attacks. I learned unconventional coping skills such as touching my wall or something cold to ground myself. My grandfather passed in less than a year, and I was right back at square, except I had become more numb. I assured my family that I was okay, and I hyperfocused my way to finishing my Associate's degree. In the fall of 2018, I transferred to a four-year institution to complete my Bachelor's degree within months of my grandfather's passing and without having properly grieved either of their deaths. My grief manifested itself as depression and anxiety. It became secluding myself from others, missing classes, constant panic attacks, denial, and overall numbness. Despite all of these symptoms, coupled with my acquired knowledge of these disorders, I was still in denial. Two moments finally made me realize that I needed to seek help. First, I volunteered for a Mental Health First Aid class to earn extra credit in a class. I took a picture of the manual and sent the image to my friend, and captioned it, "Ironic, isn't it." Even jokingly, I need knew I was the one that should have been on the receiving side. The final straw was facing a panic attack while driving while on the phone with my mother; it was then that I knew I had to face my grief. My journey to wholeness is a constant struggle, but I have made so improvements. My heart now goes out to other people in similar situations struggling to ask for help. I am also grateful that my family recognized the symptoms, pushed for therapy, and respected my wish to hold off. Finally, I am grateful for the experience; through it, I am able to empathize with others and hopefully allow my lived experience to better guide my perspective to serve others as a future psychologist.

A healthy lifestyle is vital to my core values. Research supports that incorporating healthy habits continuously creates a lifestyle. Having a healthy style can boost longevity and prevent diseases. As I begin my doctoral program, creating a healthy lifestyle can prevent unnecessary stress and negative coping habits, i.e., unhealthy snacking, lack of sleep, and exercise. Stress is natural; however, I have noticed my higher stress levels when enrolled in school, especially in the fall and winter semesters. In order to combat this, I am incorporating establishing boundaries in academia and my personal lifestyle to prevent undertaking responsibilities that could cause unnecessary stress in my life. Additionally, I will practice communicating with clear and considered words that convey my intentions, reducing miscommunication that causes stress. Secondly, if left unchecked, I noticed that I could binge on unhealthy snacks due to stress and boredom. In an effort to minimize this habit, I plan to buy healthier snacks and food. Meal planning will all complete to have healthy and full meals that curb my cravings for unhealthy snacking. Additionally, I have focused on my lack of sleep and exercise throughout the year. Therefore, I incorporated SMART goals pertaining to my water, sleep, and exercise. I started by intentionally going to bed earlier and gradually increasing my water intake and daily steps. This semester I have joined an exercise group to hold me accountable, and also simply walking my dog will also increase the daily steps and exercise I attempt to obtain. As the fall semester approaches, I have taken the necessary precaution to maintain the healthy lifestyle I have at the moment. By incorporating accountability both intrinsically and intrinsically, I hope to maintain a lifestyle that will benefit my body and academic life.

From the moment I was introduced to a dog, I was awestruck and a little nervous. However, I was curious about other families and their bond with their dogs. Due to my family's military background, my parents had always said no to the option of having of dog based on our constant moving and summer travels. So my parents appeased me with books about dogs and shelves full of stuffed dogs. I love dogs because they seem so loyal to their family. In movies and stories, they were companions of their owners and seemed to brighten people's days just by a simple encounter. I also longed to have that experience that other families were able to experience constantly. As a child, I felt that a dog could be a constant addition to my family's hectic life, and despite our moves and travels, there was an additional family member to experience life with. During the pandemic's peak, I thought the time was finally right to adopt a dog, and I purchased a shelter dog who was recently rescued from Texas. I fell head over heels in love with my dog and immediately began making up for a lost time. My love of dogs has not changed as much; despite me moving out on my own, I still am on the move and working towards another big move out-of-state on my own; however, this time, I will have my companion to accompany me on this next chapter of life. As I take on this journey, knowing that I will not be alone in the transition is comforting. It also speaks to the relationship my dog and I have fostered within the past year. I am grateful to the furball who has taught me so much about myself within a short span of time. My dog, Ozai, has thoroughly changed my life from waking up at 7 am for breakfast and walks to figuring out the best vets and pet insurance to cover potential injuries. I began my journey by making an effort not to "overdo" it. However, I have found myself networking with other owners for playdates, researching the best food on the market, and buying unnecessary dog accessories. But, Ozai's impact has affected not only my life and his lifestyle but also other dogs. As a result, I became an advocate for other shelter dogs within my county. I volunteer for various local organizations to raise awareness of unfair dog laws within my county and the need to adopt local shelter dogs. In addition, I have participated in Freedom Rides to ensure and bridge the gap between shelters and potential adopters. My work with rescues stems from my childhood and how my parents were staunch advocates. My parents also strongly encouraged me to participate in volunteerism in my current interests. Therefore, volunteering has also been at the forefront of my life, and with the adoption of Ozai, I have expanded my time, voice, and platform in ensuring that other dogs like Ozai also have the best life possible. My passion for advocating on behalf of rescues is derived and rooted in the reason I was attracted to the idea of owning a dog - companionship. Companionship is so synonymous when describing the relationships between humans and dogs. It is what I saw with other families as a youth and now as an adult; it has been extraordinary to aid in the endeavor of others finding companionship.

Endurance A life lesson that I have learned but continue to learn throughout the stages of life is endurance. Endurance is the idea of preserving through a difficult event and seeing it through to the end. I am constantly learning this lesson because endurance often changes depending on the present stage of life. The lesson of endurance is also taught by multiple instructors, the first usually parents, but as life progresses, it is often life itself. As a child, endurance was finishing a homework assignment or completing a mundane task or chore. Parents or teachers often teach the idea of seeing through activities, and what is gained is that endurance is often rewarded that when endurance is shown, there is an award. These small lessons and rewards are crucial for the next stage when tasks are no longer as brief and rewards become sparse. Once reaching school-age, endurance is not only expressed in schoolwork but in athletics. Sports are often a test of endurance by completing games, practices, and the season. Not only is the word endurance often synonymous with athletics, but it is required to be the best and compete in any sport. Upon graduation, it seems as if life itself becomes the teacher of endurance, as young adults are now challenged in multiple ways and given many avenues to demonstrate endurance. Constant tests in higher education, the workplace, and relationship become arenas of endurance. As I now enter a new stage and reflect on my past lessons of endurance. I am grateful for the early tools and lessons that were provided to me; without them, I would find it hard that I would endure higher education. A lesson that comes to mind was enduring till the end of a sports season. I was in middle school and was playing out on the school's basketball team, and halfway through the reason, I found it burdensome to attend practices and games. I was not as dedicated to the sport as I presented to my parents. I confided in my parents to quit the team. However, I was my father, the idea of commitment, endurance, and the weight of my word. He explained that I gave my word to the team and the coach that I would be a player for the season. His words stuck with me even at a young age, and it has become something I ponder before committing to anything. Overall, these cumulative lessons have taught me that I have the necessary grit to endure anything I put my mind to. The tools have allowed me to succeed in different areas of my life, and as I continue this stage of life, I remind myself of the mundane and tasking challenges that I endured and become strengthened knowing that I have been taught to endure.

During my freshman year of college, I remember I was enrolled in a general psychology class; the professor had discussed the impact of mental disorders and how common they were within society. He asked everyone to raise their hand if they experienced depression, and many students' hands were raised around the room. He looked at those with their hands and stated that if we continue living, we will. I remember internally scoffing at his sentencing of the class. Within two years, I experienced my first known trauma; I received news that my grandmother had passed away. It was the first death in the family of someone I knew and loved. My grandmother and I were similar; we shared the same birthday, shared similar facial features, and a wry sense of humor. Upon hearing the news, my world was shattered, and I had my first panic attack. Prior to the funeral, I struggled with intrusive thoughts and had constant anxiety. After her funeral, the sense of community and the comfort of my family seems to feel the void. My family stuck to our annual summer trips, which allowed us to avoid the thought of loss. Despite my family being staunch advocates for mental health and therapy and being an aspiring psychologist, I was reluctant to seek help. Finally, my mother offered to find a therapist to schedule the appointment, and I expressed that I was okay despite having intrusive thoughts almost every night, which triggered panic attacks. I learned unconventional coping skills such as touching my wall or something cold to ground myself. My grandfather passed in less than a year, and I was right back at square, except I had become more numb. I assured my family that I was okay, and I hyperfocused my way to finishing my Associate's degree. In the fall of 2018, I transferred to a four-year institution to complete my Bachelor's degree within months of my grandfather's passing and without having properly grieved either of their deaths. My grief manifested itself as depression and anxiety. It became secluding myself from others, missing classes, constant panic attacks, denial, and overall numbness. Despite all of these symptoms coupled with my acquired knowledge of these disorders, I was still in denial. Two moments finally made me realize that I needed to seek help. First, I volunteered for a Mental Health First Aid class to earn extra credit in a class. I took a picture of the manual and sent the image to my friend, and captioned it, "Ironic, isn't it." The final straw was facing a panic attack while driving while on the phone with my mother; it was then that I knew I had to face my grief. Along with therapy, I learned to utilize various coping mechanisms while getting through the week. The first was consistent journaling; I would recommend this for anyone who may be struggling to express themselves or keep a log of their daily moods and activities. Previously I would journal sporadically, which did not provide a clear picture of the change of moods or triggers. Constant journaling allowed me to reflect on the day and provide a better understanding of my triggers and my overall self in a small snapshot. An additional mechanism I used for countering panic attacks was grounding. Grounding is a tool used to center oneself by focusing on the present stimuli. For example, I would often reach for something cold such as ice. After, I would move around and sit for deep breaths. These techniques are so simple but also powerful tools to alleviate anxiety.

During my freshman year of college, I remember I was enrolled in a general psychology class; the professor had discussed the impact of mental disorders and how common they were within society. He asked everyone to raise their hand if they experienced depression, and many students' hands were raised around the room. He looked at those with their hands and stated that if we continue living, we will. I remember internally scoffing at his sentencing of the class. Within two years, I experienced my first known trauma; I received news that my grandmother had passed away. It was the first death in the family of someone I knew and loved. My grandmother and I were similar; we shared the same birthday, shared similar facial features, and a wry sense of humor. Upon hearing the news, my world was shattered, and I had my first panic attack. Prior to the funeral, I struggled with intrusive thoughts and had constant anxiety. After her funeral, the sense of community and the comfort of my family seems to feel the void. My family stuck to our annual summer trips, which allowed us to avoid the thought of loss. Despite my family being staunch advocates for mental health and therapy and being an aspiring psychologist, I was reluctant to seek help. Finally, my mother offered to find a therapist to schedule the appointment, and I expressed that I was okay despite having intrusive thoughts almost every night, which triggered panic attacks. I learned unconventional coping skills such as touching my wall or something cold to ground myself. My grandfather passed in less than a year, and I was right back at square, except I had become more numb. I assured my family that I was okay, and I hyperfocused my way to finishing my Associate's degree. In the fall of 2018, I transferred to a four-year institution to complete my Bachelor's degree within months of my grandfather's passing and without having properly grieved either of their deaths. My grief manifested itself as depression and anxiety. It became secluding myself from others, missing classes, constant panic attacks, denial, and overall numbness. Despite all of these symptoms coupled with my acquired knowledge of these disorders, I was still in denial. Two moments finally made me realize that I needed to seek help. First, I volunteered for a Mental Health First Aid class to earn extra credit in a class. I took a picture of the manual and sent the image to my friend, and captioned it, "Ironic, isn't it." Even jokingly, I need knew I was the one that should have been on the receiving side. The final straw was facing a panic attack while driving while on the phone with my mother; it was then that I knew I had to face my grief. Towards the end of school, I penned a long message to my friend, both new and old apologizing for any uncommon behaviors, and wrote to new friends that I am a little different from the behaviors I had displayed over the past semester. I thanked them for their continued support on my journey to wholeness. My journey to wholeness is a constant struggle, but I have made so improvements. My heart now goes out to other people in similar situations struggling to ask for help. I am also grateful that my family recognized the symptoms, pushed for therapy, and respected my wishes of holding off. Finally, I am grateful for the experience; through it, I am able to empathize with others and hopefully allow my lived experience to better guide my perspective to serve others as a future psychologist.

During my freshman year of college, I remember I was enrolled in a general psychology class; the professor had discussed the impact of mental disorders and how common they were within society. He asked everyone to raise their hand if they experienced depression, and many students' hands were raised around the room. He looked at those with their hands and stated that if we continue living, we will. I remember internally scoffing at his sentencing of the class. Within two years, I experienced my first known trauma; I received news that my grandmother had passed away. It was the first death in the family of someone I knew and loved. My grandmother and I were similar; we shared the same birthday, shared similar facial features, and a wry sense of humor. Upon hearing the news, my world was shattered, and I had my first panic attack. Prior to the funeral, I struggled with intrusive thoughts and had constant anxiety. After her funeral, the sense of community and the comfort of my family seems to feel the void. My family stuck to our annual summer trips, which allowed us to avoid the thought of loss. Despite my family being staunch advocates for mental health and therapy and being an aspiring psychologist, I was reluctant to seek help. Finally, my mother offered to find a therapist to schedule the appointment, and I expressed that I was okay despite having intrusive thoughts almost every night, which triggered panic attacks. I learned unconventional coping skills such as touching my wall or something cold to ground myself. My grandfather passed in less than a year, and I was right back at square, except I had become more numb. I assured my family that I was okay, and I hyperfocused my way to finishing my Associate's degree. In the fall of 2018, I transferred to a four-year institution to complete my Bachelor's degree within months of my grandfather's passing and without having properly grieved either of their deaths. My grief manifested itself as depression and anxiety. It became secluding myself from others, missing classes, constant panic attacks, denial, and overall numbness. Despite all of these symptoms coupled with my acquired knowledge of these disorders, I was still in denial. Two moments finally made me realize that I needed to seek help. First, I volunteered for a Mental Health First Aid class to earn extra credit in a class. I took a picture of the manual and sent the image to my friend, and captioned it, "Ironic, isn't it." Even jokingly, I need knew I was the one that should have been on the receiving side. The final straw was facing a panic attack while driving while on the phone with my mother; it was then that I knew I had to face my grief. Towards the end of school, I penned a long message to my friend, both new and old apologizing for any uncommon behaviors, and wrote to new friends that I am a little different from the behaviors I had displayed over the past semester. I thanked them for their continued support on my journey to wholeness. My journey to wholeness is a constant struggle, but I have made so improvements. My heart now goes out to other people in similar situations struggling to ask for help. I am also grateful that my family recognized the symptoms, pushed for therapy, and respected my wishes of holding off. Finally, I am grateful for the experience; through it, I am able to empathize with others and hopefully allow my lived experience to better guide my perspective to serve others as a future psychologist.

From the moment I was introduced to a dog, I was awestruck and a little nervous. However, I was curious about other families and their bond with their dogs. Due to my family's military background, my parents had always said no to the option of having of dog based on our constant moving and summer travels. So my parents appeased me with books about dogs and shelves full of stuffed dogs. I love dogs because they seem so loyal to their family. In movies and stories, they were companions of their owners and seemed to brighten people's days just by a simple encounter. I also longed to have that experience that other families were able to experience constantly. As a child, I felt that a dog could be a constant addition to my family's hectic life, and despite our moves and travels, there was an additional family member to experience life with. During the pandemic's peak, I thought the time was finally right to adopt a dog, and I purchased a shelter dog who was recently rescued from Texas. I fell head over heels in love with my dog and immediately began making up for a lost time. My love of dogs has not changed as much; despite me moving out on my own, I still am on the move and working towards another big move out-of-state on my own; however, this time, I will have my companion to accompany me on this next chapter of life. As I take on this journey, knowing that I will not be alone in the transition is comforting. It also speaks to the relationship between my dog, and I have fostered within the past year. I am grateful to the furball who has taught me so much about myself within a short span of time. My dog, Ozai, has thoroughly changed my life from waking up at 7 am for breakfast and walks to figuring out the best vets and pet insurance to cover potential injuries. I began my journey by making an effort not to "overdo" it. However, I have found myself networking with other owners for playdates, researching the best food on the market, and buying unnecessary dog accessories. But, Ozai's impact has affected not only my life and his lifestyle but also other dogs. As a result, I became an advocate for other shelter dogs within my county. I volunteer for various local organizations to raise awareness of unfair dog laws within my county and the need to adopt local shelter dogs. In addition, I have participated in Freedom Rides to ensure and bridge the gap between shelters and potential adopters. My work with rescues stems from my childhood and how my parents were staunch advocates. My parents also strongly encouraged me to participate in volunteerism in my current interests. Therefore, volunteering has also been at the forefront of my life, and with the adoption of Ozai, I have expanded my time, voice, and platform in ensuring that other dogs like Ozai also have the best life possible. My passion for advocating on behalf of rescues is derived and rooted in the reason I was attracted to the idea of owning a dog - companionship. Companionship is so synonymous when describing the relationships between humans and dogs. It is what I saw with other families as a youth and now as an adult; it has been extraordinary to aid in the endeavor of others finding companionship.