Mental health is incredibly important to me as a student because it directly affects my ability to focus, learn, and succeed in both my academic and personal life. The pressures of balancing school, work, and personal responsibilities can take a toll on anyone’s mental well-being, and without proper attention to mental health, it becomes increasingly difficult to perform at your best. Over the years, I’ve realized that success isn’t just about academic performance, but also about maintaining a healthy mind. For me, taking care of my mental health has been crucial in navigating the challenges of being a first-generation college student, balancing my studies with financial stress, and dealing with the emotional ups and downs of life. As a physical therapy student with a minor in clinical psychology, I’ve come to understand how closely mental and physical health are intertwined. A healthy mind allows me to stay motivated, manage stress, and approach challenges with resilience. Conversely, when I neglect my mental health, it impacts my energy levels, focus, and ability to engage fully with my studies. College is a time of tremendous growth, but it can also be a period of immense pressure. From academic deadlines to social expectations, the demands on students are high, and it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. By prioritizing mental health, I can maintain balance, stay grounded, and continue to push forward toward my goals. In my community, I actively advocate for mental health by creating spaces where open conversations about mental well-being are encouraged. Within my family and circle of friends, I make it a point to check in on their mental health, recognizing that, particularly in Black and African immigrant communities, mental health is often stigmatized or ignored. I use my experiences to share how seeking therapy or practicing self-care has helped me, hoping to break down the stigma surrounding mental health care. By normalizing these conversations, I aim to encourage others to prioritize their mental health without shame or fear of judgment. On campus, I have participated in student-led initiatives and mental health awareness campaigns. I believe that one of the most powerful ways to advocate for mental health is through education. When students are equipped with the right tools and knowledge about mental health, they are more likely to recognize when they need help and feel empowered to seek it. In addition to attending workshops and wellness events, I try to support my fellow students by simply being a good listener and offering resources when someone confides in me about their struggles. I’ve directed peers to counseling services on campus, shared self-care tips, and emphasized the importance of finding a balance between academic obligations and personal well-being. As I move forward in my career as a physical therapist, I plan to continue advocating for mental health by integrating it into my practice. Physical health and mental health are deeply connected, and many people experience mental health challenges when recovering from physical injuries or dealing with chronic pain. I hope to create a holistic approach to care that addresses both the physical and emotional needs of my patients, helping them achieve a complete recovery. In conclusion, mental health is important to me because it is the foundation upon which all other aspects of life are built. Through my personal experiences and my studies, I’ve come to see the critical role mental health plays in overall wellness. By advocating for mental health within my community, I hope to create a culture where mental well-being is valued, and where people feel empowered to seek help when they need it.

As a future physical therapist with a background in clinical psychology, I see my role in a helping profession as an opportunity not only to heal but also to empower. Specifically, I am deeply committed to addressing the disparities faced by Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) women in healthcare. These women often face systemic barriers, such as inadequate access to quality care, implicit bias, and a lack of culturally competent healthcare providers. By leveraging my degree, I plan to actively engage with communities, advocate for change, and contribute to the ongoing fight for social justice and equity. My own experiences as a Kenyan woman and a first-generation college student have made me acutely aware of the challenges that BIPOC women face in various aspects of life, including healthcare. Too often, the needs of women of color are overlooked or dismissed, and this leads to poorer health outcomes, longer recovery times, and a lack of trust in the healthcare system. I want to challenge these disparities by becoming a physical therapist who not only provides excellent care but also fosters an environment of respect, understanding, and empowerment for BIPOC women. In my future practice, I will focus on offering care that is culturally competent and sensitive to the specific needs of BIPOC women. I plan to build relationships with my patients that center around trust, listening to their concerns, and advocating for their well-being. This includes recognizing the unique social, economic, and psychological factors that may affect their health and rehabilitation. For example, many women of color face economic hardships or caregiving responsibilities that make it difficult to prioritize their health. As a healthcare provider, I will advocate for these women by connecting them with resources, providing flexible treatment options, and supporting them in their recovery journey. Additionally, I plan to use my background in clinical psychology to address the mental health challenges that often accompany physical trauma, which are frequently ignored in marginalized communities. Beyond individual patient care, I intend to engage in broader advocacy efforts to address the systemic issues that contribute to health disparities. This includes working with community organizations that focus on health education, access to care, and the promotion of wellness in underserved populations. By participating in workshops, health fairs, and outreach programs, I can help educate BIPOC women on the importance of physical health and rehabilitation, as well as the need to advocate for themselves within the healthcare system. I envision creating community wellness programs specifically designed to support women of color, where they can receive not only physical therapy services but also mental health support and guidance on navigating healthcare challenges. To advocate for lasting change, I will also use my platform to push for policy reforms that address inequities in healthcare access and delivery. This may include advocating for increased funding for community health programs, pushing for mandatory cultural competency training for healthcare providers, and supporting policies that aim to reduce the racial and gender biases present in the healthcare system. I plan to collaborate with other healthcare professionals, policymakers, and activists who are committed to fighting for health equity. Ultimately, my goal is to empower BIPOC women to take control of their health and well-being by providing compassionate, competent care and advocating for a healthcare system that serves them better. I believe that healthcare should be a tool for empowerment, not just treatment, and I intend to use my degree to ensure that BIPOC women receive the care, respect, and opportunities they deserve.

My long-term goal is to become a licensed physical therapist, specializing in neurorehabilitation, and to make a lasting impact in the lives of people who have suffered from traumatic brain injuries, strokes, or neurological disorders. My interest in physical therapy began with my passion for helping others regain their strength and mobility after facing major challenges. I have always been drawn to professions where I can make a tangible difference in people’s lives, and the idea of restoring movement and independence to those who have lost it aligns perfectly with my career aspirations. I am currently studying at the University of Texas at Arlington (UTA), pursuing a degree in physical therapy with a minor in clinical psychology. My studies focus on understanding how both the mind and body recover after trauma, a dual interest that will allow me to treat patients with a holistic approach. UTA’s renowned programs in nursing and health have equipped me with a solid foundation, but I know that becoming an expert in this field will require advanced education and training beyond my undergraduate degree. This is why I plan to pursue a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree after completing my bachelor’s program. I envision working in a rehabilitation hospital or clinic, where I can provide care to individuals who have lost function due to neurological conditions, helping them reclaim their independence and improve their quality of life. In addition to lifting the financial weight, this scholarship would serve as validation of my hard work and the obstacles I have overcome as a Kenyan immigrant and a student who is hard of hearing. These aspects of my identity have shaped my perseverance and commitment to education, despite facing unique hurdles. This scholarship would not only help fund my education but also affirm that my story and my determination are recognized and valued. Looking ahead, I plan to use my education and experiences to give back to my community by helping others in need of physical rehabilitation. I aim to be a role model for young people, especially those from underrepresented backgrounds, and show them that it is possible to overcome adversity and achieve their dreams. This scholarship will enable me to complete my education and, ultimately, help me realize my dream of changing lives through physical therapy. In conclusion, this scholarship will be a crucial support in my pursuit of a career dedicated to helping others. By easing my financial stress, I will be able to focus on what truly matters: becoming the best physical therapist I can be and using my skills to make a difference in the world.

My name is Natalee Wallace, and I am a 19-year-old Kenyan-American student attending the University of Texas at Arlington, where I am studying to become a physical therapist with a minor in clinical psychology. As a first-generation college student, attending college is not just a personal achievement, but also a milestone for my family. My journey to college has been shaped by my desire to overcome challenges, create a better future for myself, and help others through a healthcare career. The decision to attend college was driven by both my passion for learning and my commitment to helping people. I have always had an interest in how the human body functions and heals, and physical therapy seemed like the perfect path to combine that curiosity with my desire to make a positive impact. Growing up, I witnessed how healthcare disparities affected my community, especially for women and people of color. These experiences sparked a passion in me to advocate for better healthcare and to pursue a career that would allow me to make a difference in the lives of others. Choosing the University of Texas at Arlington was an easy decision for me. UTA has a strong reputation for its Nursing and Health programs, and I felt that it was the right environment for me to grow academically and personally. I believe that my time here will equip me with the knowledge, skills, and experience I need to excel in my chosen field. College is not just about earning a degree for me; it’s about preparing myself to make a meaningful contribution to the world. My career goals are deeply tied to my desire to give back and support those who are often overlooked. As a physical therapist, I hope to work with individuals recovering from injuries, surgeries, or chronic conditions, helping them regain their strength, mobility, and independence. I also want to ensure that I provide compassionate, inclusive care, particularly for underserved communities. My minor in clinical psychology will allow me to address the mental and emotional aspects of physical recovery, ensuring that my future patients receive holistic care. In the long term, I aim to open my practice where I can integrate physical therapy and mental health services. I believe that healing is a multifaceted process, and I want to create a space where people can feel supported not only physically but emotionally. Beyond my career, one of my life goals is to mentor and support other young people from underrepresented backgrounds, encouraging them to pursue their dreams and succeed in whatever field they choose. In summary, my passion for healthcare, my personal experiences, and my desire to help others drive me to pursue a college education and a career in physical therapy. I am determined to make a lasting impact in the lives of others while building a fulfilling life for myself.

Embracing My Identity: Navigating the Challenges and Opportunities as an Underrepresented Minority As a Kenyan-American and a first-generation college student, I have always been acutely aware of my identity as a member of an underrepresented minority population. This identity, while a source of pride, has also presented me with unique challenges throughout my life. However, it has also motivated me to persevere and has shaped my goals and aspirations. My experiences have fueled my passion for helping others and have given me a deep commitment to creating positive change for underrepresented groups in both my personal and professional life. Growing up as a Kenyan-American in Texas, I often felt like an outsider. In school, I was one of the few Black students, and I quickly learned that I would have to work harder to prove myself in many situations. This sense of being different sometimes made me feel isolated, but it also taught me resilience and the importance of self-confidence. I was raised in a family that emphasized the value of education and hard work, but as the first in my family to attend college, I had no roadmap to follow. Navigating the college application process, financial aid, and adjusting to the academic demands of higher education have been overwhelming at times. Yet, these challenges have also pushed me to seek out resources, connect with mentors, and advocate for myself in ways that have built my independence and determination.My identity as a member of an underrepresented minority has not only shaped my experiences but also my perspective on the importance of representation. Attending the University of Texas at Arlington, I have seen firsthand how underrepresentation can limit opportunities for students of color, particularly in fields like healthcare. As a student pursuing a degree in physical therapy with a minor in clinical psychology, I am committed to addressing these disparities and advocating for greater diversity in healthcare. Representation matters, and I want to be a voice for those who are often overlooked or marginalized in healthcare settings. One of the most significant ways my identity has influenced my path is through my desire to serve others. As someone who has faced obstacles related to race and access to resources, I am passionate about helping individuals from underrepresented groups overcome similar challenges. My goal is to become a physical therapist who provides care that is not only focused on physical healing but also culturally competent and inclusive. Too often, minority patients face barriers to accessing quality healthcare or feel misunderstood by healthcare providers. I want to ensure that my future patients, regardless of their background, feel seen, heard, and supported in their journey to recovery. In addition to my academic and professional aspirations, I am also deeply committed to giving back to my community. I have volunteered with organizations that support minority students in pursuing higher education and healthcare opportunities. Through this work, I have seen the importance of mentorship and support systems for students of color, and I hope to continue this work in the future. I want to be a role model for other young people who, like me, may feel like they don’t belong or don’t have the resources to succeed. I believe that by sharing my experiences and offering guidance, I can help others navigate the challenges that come with being a member of an underrepresented minority. Looking ahead, I am confident that my identity as a Kenyan-American and a first-generation college student will continue to shape my path in meaningful ways.It will drive me to excel in my career,but as equal as well

Natalee Wallace 15 September 2024 Overcoming Obstacles as a Hard of Hearing Student: My Journey to Success As a student at the University of Texas at Arlington, I am currently pursuing a degree in physical therapy with a minor in clinical psychology. My passion for helping others drives my commitment to this field. I aspire to work in a career that allows me to make a tangible difference in people's lives, especially those who, like me, face physical challenges. Through my education, I hope to empower individuals to regain their mobility, independence, and well-being. The combination of physical therapy and clinical psychology equips me with the skills to address not only physical rehabilitation but also the mental and emotional challenges that often accompany physical injuries. However, pursuing this path has not been without its obstacles. I am hard of hearing, which has presented unique challenges throughout my academic journey. As someone with a hearing impairment, navigating an academic environment designed primarily for those with full hearing has required resilience, adaptability, and the utilization of various assistive technologies. In a world where communication is key to success, the simple act of attending lectures, participating in discussions, or understanding spoken instructions can become daunting. To help me in my academic pursuits, I rely on a range of devices and services. I use hearing aids, which amplify sound and allow me to participate more fully in both classroom settings and daily interactions. In addition to hearing aids, I benefit from assistive listening devices (ALDs) provided by the university. These devices help clarify sound, especially in large lecture halls where background noise can interfere with my ability to hear. The university also offers real-time captioning services and lecture transcription, which have proven invaluable in ensuring that I do not miss any critical information during lectures. These accommodations have allowed me to bridge the gap between my hearing impairment and the rigorous demands of my studies. Despite these resources, I have encountered many challenges along the way. There have been instances where technology fails, such as when the captioning services are unavailable or my hearing aids malfunction. In such moments, I have had to rely on my persistence and resourcefulness to find other ways to catch up on missed material, such as asking classmates for notes or scheduling additional office hours with professors. There have also been social obstacles; group discussions or spontaneous conversations can sometimes be difficult to follow, making it challenging to contribute fully in such settings. While these experiences can be frustrating, they have taught me the importance of self-advocacy and asking for the help I need. My journey as a hard-of-hearing student has also fostered a deep empathy for others facing challenges, which further fuels my passion for physical therapy. In many ways, my hearing impairment has made me more attuned to the needs of those who feel overlooked or misunderstood because of their disabilities. I want to be a professional who not only addresses physical pain but also provides the kind of holistic care that takes a patient’s mental and emotional well-being into account. The combination of physical therapy and clinical psychology will allow me to support patients holistically, helping them heal both physically and mentally. Once I complete my degree, my goal is to work as a physical therapist in a healthcare setting, focusing on rehabilitation while pursuing my Master's degree and then get a PhD degree as well I am excited to apply these lessons in my future career as a physical therapist.

Natalee Wallace 15 September 2024 Confronting Gender Disparity in Texas: A Personal Journey Gender disparity is an issue that has long plagued our society, and Texas is no exception. Growing up as a Kenyan-American woman in Texas, I have experienced firsthand the inequalities women face in education, healthcare, and employment. These experiences have shaped my perspective on gender disparity and ignited a desire within me to make meaningful change, particularly for women in my state. My personal experiences, coupled with the stories of the strong women in my life, have motivated me to confront gender disparity in Texas and seek ways to improve the lives of women here. Throughout my life, I have seen how societal expectations and limitations placed on women hinder their progress and prevent them from achieving their full potential. In my own family, I have witnessed how traditional gender roles impact women’s opportunities. My mother, a hardworking and intelligent woman, sacrificed her educational aspirations to take care of our family. Watching her struggle to balance work and family life, often without the recognition or support she deserved, made me acutely aware of the challenges women face in pursuing their dreams. Additionally, as a first-generation college student, I have personally encountered the gender disparity that exists in higher education. Attending the University of Texas at Arlington, I have seen how women, particularly women of color, face barriers that men do not. From the lack of mentorship opportunities to the disparities in financial aid, I have realized that gender inequality is deeply entrenched in the educational system. These challenges have only strengthened my resolve to use my education as a tool to advocate for women’s equality in Texas. One of the most pivotal moments in my journey to confront gender disparity occurred during my freshman year at UTA. I was struggling financially, emotionally, and academically, which culminated in a severe mental health crisis. Despite reaching out for help, I found that the resources available to women, particularly those from marginalized backgrounds, were limited. It was then that I realized the importance of advocating for better mental health services for women in higher education. Mental health is a significant issue for many women, especially those balancing academic, professional, and familial responsibilities, and I am committed to working toward improving access to these services. I am currently studying to become a physical therapist with a minor in clinical psychology. With this degree, I hope to make a profound impact on the healthcare system, particularly in addressing the unique health challenges faced by women in Texas. Women often face disparities in healthcare, from lack of access to reproductive health services to being dismissed or ignored by medical professionals. By becoming a physical therapist, I aim to provide compassionate and equitable care to women, ensuring they receive the attention and support they need. My minor in clinical psychology will further enable me to address the mental health challenges that disproportionately affect women, such as anxiety, depression, and trauma. In addition to my academic pursuits, I have already begun working to further women’s equality in Texas. I have volunteered with organizations that support women’s health and mental well-being, including local clinics that provide healthcare services to low-income women. Through this work, I have seen how access to healthcare can transform a woman’s life, empowering her to pursue her goals and improve her quality of life. I have also participated in workshops that teach women financial literacy, an essential skill for achieving independence and equality in today’s society. These experiences have deepened my commitment to advocating for women’s rights