Losing a sibling is really hard for anyone because they're like the best friends, and that friendship goes deeper than anything else. My sister was more than a sibling she was my best friend in the whole world. If I ever wanted to talk, I know I can turn to her and tell her absolutely anything without holding back or judgment. She was my person and losing her to heart disease was devastating for me to watch her go through. It's very hard for me to write or think about it because every time I do I just think about how I lost a piece of my heart that no one can fix or replace. After her passing, I couldn't even talk to anyone or do much because of how much pain I was going thorough and at the time I didn't know how to cope with it since I never felt such a big loss in my life. My mental health went downhill and my mother took me to get help even though I didn't want to talk to anyone I still went to therapy the doctor diagnosised me with depression. I would say this was the darkest moment of my life but also and awakening for me because my mother everyday made me go to the therapist just to talk to him about everything I'm going through in my head which actually helped and saved me from myself because I feel like without it I would have gone to a very dark head space then what I was before. after a couple of years of therapy I was able to move on and feel slightly normal even though it would never be the same with out her I learned that if she was alive she wouldn't want to see me destroy myself so I had to move forward for her and this time in life I had reason why I wanted to continue to work hard after high school I went to queens collage In hopes of becoming a clinical psychologist and motivated to help others who experience great loss with now understanding myself how much losing someone can affect someone and I hope to one day I can be there for someone and make a difference in the future to someone who's going thorough the same situation as me because having someone there to guide you is very important to have because everyone needs a person that they can just feel safe to talk to with out judgement and with fear and I hope to that person for someone else

Hi, I’m Mia Jean Baptiste, a passionate junior at Queens College studying psychology. I'm a low-income student with one parent helping me get through paying for college which can be really stressful at times especially when I struggle worrying about how I'm going to pay for tuition and not be in debt but still be able to focus on school. I really hope to graduate soon and be the first kid in my family to finish and go to college. From a young age, I’ve been captivated by medical dramas like 'Grey’s Anatomy,' which inspired me to pursue this field. What excites me most is how doctors do more than treat illnesses—they truly transform lives every day. Though it's just a TV show, I believe real doctors work tirelessly to make a difference, helping, healing, and saving lives, which I find incredibly inspiring. I know most kids that age say they want to be a doctor as a phase but for me it was very real The most rewarding part of healthcare for me is witnessing the joy and gratitude when you realize you've just saved someone's life. I aspire to become a psychologist because my family has a long history of mental health challenges. I want to support others just as my family has supported me, turning healthcare into a source of comfort and hope. I believe healthcare should be empowering and reassuring. My favorite character is Dr. Shepherd, a fearless neurosurgeon. His confident, calm approach in emergencies is awe-inspiring. His signature line, "It's a beautiful day to save lives... let's have some fun," fills me with motivation and energy. I am excited to bring that same positive, life-affirming spirit to my future career. In the end, pursuing my degree isn’t just about earning a diploma—it’s about breaking cycles, honoring my family’s sacrifices, and becoming someone who can truly make a difference in people’s lives. Every challenge I face only strengthens my determination to keep going. I want to be the person others can turn to in their most vulnerable moments, offering not just knowledge, but understanding, comfort, and hope. With the right support, I know I can reach this goal, graduate, and build a future where I give back to others the same strength and care that has carried me this far. With the right support, I know I can continue my education without the constant fear of financial instability holding me back. This opportunity would allow me to focus fully on my studies, grow into the person I aspire to be, and ultimately give back to others in the most meaningful way I can. I am determined to finish what I started, to graduate, and to build a future where I can turn my experiences into strength for others.

"Your mental health is a priority, not a luxury" I didn’t choose psychology to chase a trend; I chose it because anxiety moved through my mother’s voice at school events and my sister’s quiet rooms—teaching me that mental health isn’t a private secret but a shared weather system that shapes every conversation, hallway, and holiday. Watching my mom rehearse breaths before a family gathering showed me how a calm presence can soften fear, while standing beside my sister in a crowded hallway taught me how to meet someone where they are without judgment and the power of small, patient listening. Those moments didn’t just make me more compassionate; they sparked a stubborn curiosity about how reliable, evidence-based care can become a daily shield rather than a distant rescue. So I, a sophomore majoring in psychology, have chased that curiosity into a lab studying anxiety and toward opportunities to collaborate with community programs that screen for anxiety in schools and workplaces; I want to help design accessible, stigma-reducing interventions that fit into people’s real lives. In my relationships, I’m learning to listen deeply, to set healthy boundaries, and to seek guidance when I’m unsure how to help; and in my view of the world, mental health is inseparable from access, policy, and social support—an everyday reminder that science must translate into care for diverse families like mine.

Mental health isn’t a concept I study from a distance; it’s the air that keeps my days moving at home. As a sophomore studying psychology, I spend mornings reading about the brain’s stress response and evenings noticing how anxiety shows up in my sister’s life. The real lessons aren’t in textbooks alone—they live in our kitchen, in our nightly routines, and in the ways we choose to show up for each other. My sister’s anxiety is a daily reminder that mental health isn’t private or discussed only in seminars; it shapes how we talk, how we pace our days, and how we respond to fear and need. That awareness guides how I live and what I hope to contribute to the world, starting at home. College helps me see why mental health matters, and I bring those lessons to our house. The lectures about stress and resilience make sense on the page, but they gain clarity in the human edges—the nights when the house feels loud and restless, the midterms that threaten motivation, the burnouts that make every task feel like one more thing. I’ve learned how small routines can buffer distress, how sleep and boundaries act as tools, and how biology can be translated into everyday habits. The most important insight isn’t a theory; acknowledging anxiety and seeking help aren’t signs of weakness but steps toward a more honest, capable life. My sister’s experiences have taught me this plainly: when anxiety is met with understanding, we can pause, breathe, and reach for help while still showing up for those we care about. I’ve chosen to make an impact where I live—at home, with the people who matter most. I practice listening that isn’t rushing to fix things, and I create a space where fears can be named without dismissal. We talk about what helps her feel safe, what triggers her anxiety, and when it’s time to seek professional care. I model the self-care I’ve learned in my courses—not as a checklist, but as a way to stay present with ourselves and each other. This isn’t about solving her problems; it’s about learning together how to live with uncertainty in a way that protects our well-being and our relationship. In our home, I translate psychology into everyday actions. I’ve started conversations about recognizing signs someone is struggling and how to approach them with care and no judgment. I’ve drafted simple, plain-language tips on anxiety, sleep hygiene, and when to seek help that our family can reference without feeling overwhelmed. They’re small, tangible acts—a listening ear over tea, a quiet moment before bed, a reminder to pause and breathe. Mental health isn’t something we bear in isolation; it’s a shared rhythm that underpins our ability to learn, belong, and grow together at home. If I keep listening, keep learning, and keep inviting my sister and others into the conversation, I believe we can turn empathy into real-world change—one conversation, one breath, one day at a time.

“I pay attention to things that most people ignore.” a lyric from Olivia song All-American. When I hear those words, they land in my chest like a quiet ache I can’t shake. Adolescence feels loud—hallway clamor, opinions erupting in chorus, phones buzzing with the next drama. And yet I notice the edges, the small currents that everyone else passes over as if they’re invisible. Paying attention isn’t just observation for me; it’s a survival skill and a confession all at once. I move through the corridors with my ears tuned to the unspoken: who’s really invited to sit at which table, who’s flashing a smile that hides a shift in mood, which joke lands and which one lands flat because something else is distracting the room. I read the room like a language I’m learning, hunting for punctuation marks—the pause before a reply, the stray text that reveals a different truth, the quiet inhale before someone speaks honestly. It’s both exhausting and intoxicating to feel the currents under ordinary moments—the undertow in a hallway, the ache behind a friend’s laugh, the way the sun hits a locker just so and makes a memory feel suddenly personal. The lyric isn’t only about noticing the visible world; it’s about naming what people pretend not to notice. It’s about tracing the tiny truths tucked away in corners: a parent’s voice that softens when they worry, the stubborn gravity of a crush that won’t quit, the sorrow of a friend who’s learned to hide behind a mask of “I’m fine.” Paying attention becomes a strange bravery because to name what I perceive is to risk misreading, to risk being labeled too much, too sensitive, too intense, or too dramatic. It’s a delicate balance—to trust my own perception without letting it swallow me whole. And there’s guts in this practice, more than bravado. The attention I offer to what others ignore makes me answerable to myself in real time: to speak when the room says to stay quiet, to name a truth before it dissolves into a joke or a shrug, to carry a lantern of perception through a hallway that would rather stay dim. In these moments, “guts” isn’t about loudness; it’s about choosing presence, choosing honesty, choosing to belong to myself even when I don’t quite fit the crowd’s version of me. Ultimately, this lyric acts like a compass. Adolescence isn’t only a season of drama and doubt; it’s a training ground for empathy, art, and truth-telling. Paying attention to the ignored isn’t a burden I’ll outgrow; it’s the way I learn to be in the world—to listen, to witness, to carry the stories that would otherwise pass me by. In noticing, I don’t just find the world’s fractures; I begin to hear my own voice learning to heal them.

Being a first-generation college student carries a unique weight and responsibility for me, especially as the eldest of four in a low-income family. My journey began with a deep desire to pave a new path for my siblings and show them that higher education is within reach. In our home, college was more of a dream than an expectation, but I was determined to turn that dream into reality. Throughout my academic journey, I've faced numerous challenges. Navigating the complexities of college life without the guidance from family experienced in higher education was daunting. There were moments when financial constraints made it difficult to afford basic necessities, let alone tuition and textbooks. I often juggled part-time jobs alongside my studies to alleviate some of the financial burden, which sometimes left me exhausted. Additionally, the pressure of being a role model for my siblings often weighed heavily on me; I wanted to excel for their sake as much as my own. As a psychology major, my dream is to become a psychologist. I am driven by a profound curiosity about human behavior and a desire to make a difference in mental health. Understanding in mental health and advocating for those who may not have a voice is my passion. I’ve seen firsthand the impact that mental health can have on families like mine ,and I want to help break the stigma surrounding it. I envision working in underserved communities, providing the support and care that individuals need to thrive. Receiving this scholarship would be instrumental in my journey. It would reduce the financial barriers I face and allow me to dedicate more time to my studies and community involvement. I would use the funds to access educational materials and opportunities and most importantly to pay off my student debt and tuition. Ultimately, this scholarship represents not just financial support but an acknowledgment of my determination to overcome the challenges of being a first-generation student. It’s an investment in my future, my family’s future, and the futures of those I hope to help one day. With it, I can continue to strive toward my goals—to graduate, to uplift my siblings, and to make a lasting impact in my community. I'm very eager to transform my aspirations into reality. Thank you for considering my application.

As a psychology major, my journey has been shaped by my experience with social anxiety. It’s been a wild ride, affecting not just my studies but also the way I see myself and those around me. I still remember my first college class—my heart was racing, and my mind was buzzing with nerves. I was excited about what was ahead, but the idea of speaking up or even introducing myself felt like standing at the edge of a high cliff, ready to jump but frozen in fear. More often than not, I found myself hanging back, feeling like an observer in my own life. Facing my anxiety wasn’t a walk in the park, but I quickly realized that I needed to put my mental health front and center. I started looking for ways to cope with the heavy feelings hovering over me. Mindfulness practices—especially deep-breathing exercises—became a game changer. Before I stepped into a crowded room, I would take a moment to breathe deeply, focusing on the rhythm of it. Sometimes, that simple act would shift my fear into a delicate sense of calm that I clung to. Journaling became another essential tool in my toolkit. It was my safe haven for pouring out my thoughts, fears, and little wins, no matter how small they seemed. Reflecting on my daily encounters helped me spot patterns and triggers. Each time I managed to speak up in class or strike up a chat with someone, it felt like a little victory worth celebrating. Those entries in my journal reminded me that I wasn’t just defined by my anxiety; I was also the brave person willing to face it. Gradual exposure to social situations played a significant role in my journey. It was daunting at first, but I began setting small, achievable goals. Joining study groups or dipping my toes into campus events, step by step, changed how I saw social interactions. What once felt like towering walls slowly transformed into windows of opportunity. With each experience, I learned that feeling anxious was completely normal. The real challenge was figuring out how to handle those feelings when they popped up. This journey has taught me a lot about compassion—both for myself and others. By embracing my vulnerability, I discovered a supportive community of peers who were going through similar struggles. My passion for advocating mental health awareness has grown; I want to help create spaces where people can truly feel seen and understood. Looking ahead, I aspire to work in environments that prioritize mental well-being. I genuinely believe that everyone deserves support and the reminder that they’re not alone in their struggles. My experiences have reinforced that mental health is just as important as academic success, and I’m fully committed to building a balanced and compassionate future for myself and everyone around .

As a psychology major in college, I find myself deeply engaged in the study of the human mind and behavior. My passion for understanding how individuals think, feel, and interact with one another guides my academic journey. Psychology offers valuable insights into the complexities of our emotions and can play a crucial role in improving mental wellness. My ultimate goal is to help others through various avenues in this field, whether through counseling, research, or community outreach. education has been an important part of my college experience Like many students I’ve explored multiple options to help covering my tuition costs and paying off student debt but still struggle financially. However,Beyond my academic pursuits my love for music particularly K-pop adds a special sense of peace in my life. One group that has made a significant impact on me is Tomorrow X Together (TXT). I stumbled upon their song "Crown," and ever since that first beat I never stopped listening to them since .The themes of self-acceptance and resilience in the face of challenges are incredibly meaningful, especially as I navigate my college years. So for me It was not just the catchy tune that drew me in but the sincerity behind their lyrics. Out of all the members of TXT, Soobin stands out to me as a remarkable leader and a source of inspiration. His ambition is evident in how he dropped out of high school without his father knowing to focus more on practicing for his debut. This risky decision shows his dedication to his dream, and I admire him for taking that leap. As that reminds me to always chase mine no matter what . Soobin also has a unique way of listening to others.i watched so much of his videos and i observed how he attentively listens, making eye contact and genuinely engaging with people. It’s clear that he values what others say, which is one of the key reasons why he is an effective leader. His fellow members often turn to him for emotional support, knowing they’ll be heard and understood which as a Psych major I really admire. Another aspect of Soobin that I truly admire is his commitment to self-improvement. He consistently seeks to better himself, both in his work and his personal life. He works hard to perfect these challenges but does so at his own pace. He also makes an effort to step outside his comfort zone such as participating in social activities, yet he never forces himself into uncomfortable situations i really admire about him in how balanced he’s approach is it’s really refreshing mindset that I aspire to incorporate into my own life as I know that this can be hard for some people to in their own lives . As I continue my studies in psychology, I aim to embody the qualities that Soobin represents. I want to create safe spaces for individuals to explore their thoughts and emotions, much like TXT does through their music. Having a supportive environment is essential and I want to be someone who listens and fosters understanding in the communities I will work with in the future .

You know, when I tell people I love math, I often get some surprised looks. It seems most folks think of it as a daunting subject filled with complicated formulas and endless equations. But for me, math is like a fascinating puzzle that I can’t help but want to solve. Let me share what makes math special for me. To start with, I really enjoy the logical structure of math. It’s like having a map to follow when you’re trying to get to a destination. Each problem has its own set of rules, and figuring out how they fit together feels satisfying, almost like cracking a code. When I solve a tough problem, I can’t help but feel a rush of excitement. It’s such a great feeling to see everything click into place! Math also has this amazing ability to connect us. It's a universal language, which means that the same principles apply no matter where you are in the world. I love that idea! When I think about math being a bridge among people from different cultures, it makes me feel a little more connected to the world. It’s like having something in common with someone, even if we don’t speak the same language. What I didn’t expect was how much creativity is involved in math. When tackling complex problems, I often find myself thinking outside the box. It’s not just about following procedures; it’s about finding different paths to reach a solution. I find joy in experimenting with ideas and approaches—it reminds me of being an artist, creating something new from my own thoughts. Another thing I adore about math is the thrill of problem-solving. There’s just something electric about working through a challenge. When I finally crack a tough equation, it’s like winning a small victory. That feeling gives me a boost and motivates me to keep pushing myself, which is so rewarding. Math is also incredibly practical in everyday life. Whether I’m budgeting for a fun night out with friends or trying to make sense of some data for a project, math is right there helping me out. Knowing how to use math makes me feel more confident managing my life, and it’s a skill I truly value. Lastly, I see math as the foundation for so many other exciting subjects. It underlies everything from physics to economics, opening doors to countless opportunities.

I can’t help but be a big fan of "Wicked"! 💚 The first time I heard the songs, I was completely hooked. The story has such a unique twist on the classic "Wizard of Oz" that really makes you think about friendship, acceptance, and being true to yourself. I love how it shows Elphaba and Glinda’s journey and how they overcome their differences. It’s such a powerful message about not judging others based on appearances. And speaking of powerful, I can’t forget to mention Ariana Grande! 🎤 She’s one of my favorite artists, and her take on Elphaba is just amazing. Her voice brings so much emotion to the character. When I listen to her sing "The Wizard and I," I get goosebumps every time! She makes you feel every word, and it’s hard not to root for her. The music itself is pure magic! Songs like "Defying Gravity" just give me chills. It’s all about breaking free and going after your dreams, which really resonates with me, especially during tough times. I find myself belting those songs out in my room, pretending I’m on stage! 🎶 Ultimately, "Wicked" feels like a celebration of being different and finding your own path, which is something we all can relate to in one way or another. I’m just really excited to hopefully see it live someday and experience that energy with everyone else who loves!

As a first-generation BIPOC woman, my journey through education has been a mixture of hope, struggle, and determination. Growing up, my father wasn't a part of my life, so my mother stepped up as the sole provider for my three sisters and me. She worked tirelessly to support us, often putting her own needs aside. But alongside her strength, my mother also battled anxiety, which made our lives a delicate balancing act. Seeing her grapple with her mental health while striving to create a good life for us profoundly impacted me and shaped my dreams. I have always aspired to become a psychologist, motivated by my experiences at home and a desire to help others like my mother. Witnessing her struggles instilled in me a deep understanding of the importance of mental health and the challenges many in marginalized communities face when seeking help. I dream of being a voice for those who feel unheard, helping break down barriers and stigma surrounding mental health issues. However, the thought of pursuing this dream often fills me with anxiety of my own. I worry about the financial burden that college would place on my mother, who has already sacrificed so much for us. Every time I think about my education, I feel that familiar weight on my shoulders—how can I chase my dreams without adding to her stress? This scholarship would be more than just financial support; it would be a lifeline. It would ease the financial strain on my family, allowing me to focus on my studies and personal growth. With this opportunity, I could engage fully in my education and participate in internships and programs that would equip me with the knowledge and experience necessary to make a real difference in the mental health field. Receiving this scholarship would mean the world to me and would honor the sacrifices my mother has made. It embodies the mission of empowering women of color like me to pursue their dreams and reach their full potential. I can envision myself one day creating safe spaces for others struggling with their mental health, just as my mother needed a safe space to express herself. Ultimately, the impact of this scholarship extends far beyond my own aspirations. It represents hope, possibility, and the chance to transform my life and the lives of others. I am committed to not only achieving my goals but also making a meaningful contribution to a more inclusive and understanding world, where everyone can find the support they need to thrive.

Sabrina Carpenter has really captured my heart with her incredible talents as both a singer and an actress. I first discovered her on Disney Channel with "Girl Meets World," and since then, I've watched her grow in ways that really resonate with me. Her journey isn’t just about success; it feels like a source of inspiration for for me . One of the biggest reasons I admire Sabrina is her versatility in music. Her songs often dive into themes of empowerment, self-discovery, and relationships, which I find relatable as a young listener. Tracks like "Skinny Dipping" and "Nonsense" give a voice encouraging me to embrace who i truly am . When I hear her lyrics, I often feel like there's a reflection of my own struggles and triumphs especially with my journey through college her music makes me feel like I can do anything and still be myself. What really stands out to me about Sabrina is her authenticity. In an industry where many artists put on a façade, she is refreshingly real. I appreciate how openly she shares her personal experiences, including her ups and downs. It makes me feel like I know her on a deeper level It's really comforting to know that someone in the spotlight is willing to be vulnerable and true to themselves. Sabrina's acting chops have also played a significant role in my admiration for her. I loved her in "Girl Meets World.” Like that was my whole childhood but seeing her take on more mature characters in projects like "Tall Girl" has been so inspiring. You can really see how embracing change and pursuing our passions is all part of growing up. Beyond her talent, I see Sabrina as a positive role model. She encourages self-acceptance and resilience, reminding me and many others of the importance of staying true to ourselves in a world full of external pressures. Her message has inspired me to embrace my uniqueness and to chase my dreams with determination knowing one day those dreams will be a reality. In conclusion Sabrina Carpenter's multifaceted career has left a profound impact on me. Through her music and authenticity, she has created a meaningful connection that inspires me to navigate the complexities of adolescence with more confidence. As she continues to grow as an artist I know she’ll keep inspiring her Carpenters like me to embrace our individuality and pursue our passions with confidence !

If I had the opportunity to create a love island challenge it would be a fun food like challenge because it would test how well people could work together because cooking is a fun way to bound and test if they can work and communicate by thinking on the same level because in life let’s face it you’ll have to face big decisions and if you can’t decide on a simple seasoning or dish then that’s saying something the Culinary Connection Challenge is the perfect fit to test that connection. The Culinary Connection Challenge allows Islanders to bond through cooking. They team up to find hidden ingredients around the villa and create a dish together, testing their teamwork and relationship. Setup : Pairing : Islanders are paired based on compatibility scores. Rules : 1. Clue Hunt : Couples receive clues to find hidden ingredients and utensils around the villa. Each clue includes fun facts about the items. Cooking Time : After the hunt, teams have 30 minutes to prepare a dish using at least three found ingredients and additional ones provided. Panel : Judges, including past contestants and local chefs, taste the dishes. Criteria : Dishes are rated on taste, creativity, and teamwork. Prizes and Punishments : Winning Team : Enjoy a romantic dinner on the beach with their dish prepared by the villa chef. Losing Team : serving food to the winners or a silly dance-off.

Pursuing a degree in the mental health field is something that's incredibly close to my heart. Growing up, I watched my mom and sister grapple with anxiety, and it changed the way I perceive the world around me. Their struggles made me feel helpless at times, and I realized just how important it is to have someone to talk to during tough moments. This realization sparked my desire to step in and support others who are facing similar feelings. I believe everyone should have a safe space where they can openly share what they're going through. That's what drives me to be in this field. I want to provide a listening ear, a comforting presence, and practical tools to help people heal. Throughout my studies, I'm committed to learning everything I can about different therapeutic methods. I want to be the type of therapist who understands that it's not just about talking but about connecting with my clients and empowering them to take charge of their lives. Getting involved in the community is also high on my agenda. Mental health is often surrounded by stigma and misconceptions, and I want to be part of the solution. Whether it's through local initiatives, awareness campaigns, or educational workshops, I aspire to help change how mental health is perceived. I want to encourage people to see that it's perfectly okay to seek help, and that doing so is a sign of strength, not weakness. I have this vision of creating support groups or workshops where folks can come together to share their stories, lift each other up, and learn from one another. It’s important to build a sense of community where people feel less alone in their struggles. I imagine a space where laughter, tears, and genuine connection thrive—because we’re all on this journey together. Ultimately, my pursuit of a degree in mental health stems from a deep belief that everyone deserves to feel supported. I want to advocate for mental wellness, just like I wish someone had done for my family. It's a path filled with challenges, but knowing that I could make a real impact in someone’s life completely fuels my passion. I truly believe in the power of healing, and I can't wait to be part of that journey for others as I believe that people need to lean on one other and simply just having someone there is enough for them to know they are not alone and whatever they are going through inside thier head we could do it together .