
Hobbies and interests
Art
Baking
Counseling And Therapy
Mental Health
Poetry
Reading
Sculpture
Spanish
Videography
Writing
Karaoke
Reading
Academic
Folklore
Fantasy
Health
Horror
Philosophy
Humor
Mystery
Thriller
Sociology
I read books daily
Marcia Reyes
815
Bold Points1x
Finalist
Marcia Reyes
815
Bold Points1x
FinalistBio
As a proud first-generation college student, I draw inspiration from my hardworking parents, who have spent their lives in the fields and factories supporting our family and community. Their resilience has shaped my determination to pursue a career in mental health, where I aim to advocate for accessible care and inclusive spaces for people facing challenges like bullying and emotional adversity.
Beyond my academic and career goals, I am a creative soul with a love for diverse expressions of art, like sculpture, painting, poetry, and baking. I also sometimes take small commissions for videography and digital invitations or posters as a way to grow my hobby of editing. All these hobbies bring joy but also fuel my creativity and empathy, which I strive to channel into my work and relationships with others.
Education
California Connections Academy @ Ripon
High SchoolMiscellaneous
Desired degree level:
Master's degree program
Majors of interest:
- Psychology, Other
Career
Dream career field:
Mental Health Care
Dream career goals:
Scorenavigator Financial Literacy Scholarship
My personal experience with finances has been shaped by both family and influences and my own proactive efforts to understand and manage money effectively. Growing up, my father played a pivotal role in fostering my financial awareness. He would often include us in discussions about his thought process when making purchases, explaining why he prioritized certain items over others and how he weighed cost against benefits. These conversations not only taught me the importance of thoughtful financial decision-making but also instilled in me a sense of responsibility and the value of financial literacy.
In addition to these early lessons, my education has further enriched my understanding of finances. I am currently taking economics in school, which has broadened my perspective on topics such as supply and demand, budgeting, and the overall dynamics of financial systems. This coursework has deepened my appreciation for how personal finance decisions connect to larger economic trend and has equipped me with tools to make more informed choices in managing my money.
In my own life, I have developed a practical approach to personal finances management though the splitting technique. I divide my earnings in half: one half is allocated to savings for long-term goals, while the other half is divided into 1:3 ratio. One part is reserved for leisure and activities that bring me joy while the remaining three parts are dedicated to necessities. This method allows me to balance responsibilities and enjoyment, ensuring that I can plan for the future while still appreciating the present.
Looking forward, I plan to use what I learn about finances to secure a bright and stable future. My goal is to build on the foundation of financial skills I've developed by continuing to expand my knowledge through both education and practical experience. I aspire to manage my money effectively by maintaining disciplined savings habits, making thoughtful spending decisions, and investing wisely. I am particularly interested in learning about investment strategies that will allow me to grow my savings and create additional opportunities for myself and my loved ones.
Overall, my experiences with finances have provided me with a strong foundation of knowledge and discipline, while my education and future aspirations continue to motivate me to strive for success. The ability to manage money wisely and leverage financial tools effectively is not just a skill but a pathway to achieving my goals and making a meaningful difference in my life and the lives of those around me.
Ryan Yebba Memorial Mental Health Scholarship
My passion for promoting mental health and advocating for social change stems from both personal and deep commitment to creating safer, healthier environments for children and adolescents. Bullying and harassment in K-12 settings not only harm individual students but also create a culture of fear and exclusion that affects entire communities. I am determined to be a force for progress in addressing these challenges.
Throughout my life, I have witnessed the profound impact that bullying can have on individuals, including the long-term emotional and psychological scars it leaves behind. This awareness has driven me to actively advocate for change, whether by speaking out against bullying in my community or by participating in initiatives aimed at fostering empathy and inclusivity among young people. I believe that education is one of the most powerful tools to combat these issues, and I plan to work closely with schools to implement anti-bullying programs, promote restorative practices, and create environments where every student feels safe, valued, and supported.
My interest in pursuing a career in mental health is deeply rooted in my desire to help young people overcome the invisible struggles that can often go unnoticed. Growing up, I experienced firsthand the emotional toll of facing adversities and struggling to find support. I understand how isolating it can feel to navigate mental health challenges without the right support. This personal connection has fueled my commitment for a better system that addresses metal health and bullying in schools. I envision working towards making mental health resources more accessible by collaborating with schools, mental health professionals, and policymakers to simplify referral systems, reduce barriers to care, and ensure that every student has timely access to the support they need.
Furthermore, I am deeply committed to addressing the growing issue of cyberbullying. With the increasing prevalence of technology in student's lives, I believe digital literacy education is essential to empowering young people to navigate online spaces responsibly. By implementing programs that teach students about the impact of their digital actions and providing tools for safely reporting online harassment, we can foster a culture of respect both online and offline.
In addition, I am passionate about addressing the stigma surrounding mental health and fostering open conversations that encourage students to seek help without fear of judgment. By combining my education in mental health counseling with my dedication to advocacy, I aspire to be a bridge between those in need and the resources that can transform their lives. My goal is to create lasting changes by empowering young people to thrive emotionally and socially, ultimately building a brighter, more compassionate future.
Lori Nethaway Memorial Scholarship
My ultimate career aspiration is to serve and uplift the community. As a future mental health counselor, I am committed to providing compassionate and practical support to individuals navigating challenging times. My education will equip me with the knowledge, skills, and practical experience necessary to make a meaningful impact. Through coursework in psychology, counseling techniques, and community engagement, I will gain a deeper understanding of the diverse challenges faced by individuals and families. I aim to use this expertise to foster resilience, promote mental well-being, and advocate for accessible mental health resources within the community.
Giving back to my community is not just a professional goal—it's a calling fueled by personal experiences. I plan to actively contribute by involving myself in workshops, support groups, and outreach programs that address mental health stigma and provide a safe space for healing. Whether it's helping someone overcome a personal crisis or empowering individuals to embrace their strengths, my passion for this work fuels my drive to create positive change.
I also recognize the importance of collaboration with other professional and community leaders to address systemic challenges and build stronger support networks. My education will prepare me to navigate these complexities, ensuring that I can work effectively across different contexts. Ultimately, knowing that I can help people through difficult times and inspire hope in their lives is what makes this journey so rewarding for me.