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Noor Ali

1,745

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Finalist

Bio

I am Noor, a first-generation college graduate from Hunter College. During my time there, I pursued a major in Psychology and minored in Asian American Studies and Chinese. Throughout my journey, I have been a vocal advocate for language access, increased resources for first-generation students, mental health awareness, and various social issues. As an aspiring clinical professional, I have a deep passion for advocating for AAPI communities, particularly in addressing language rights and mental health disparities. My goal is to make a positive impact and contribute to improving mental healthcare access for AAPI individuals.

Education

Teachers College at Columbia University

Master's degree program
2023 - Present
  • Majors:
    • Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology

CUNY Hunter College

Bachelor's degree program
2018 - 2022
  • Majors:
    • Psychology, General
  • Minors:
    • South Asian Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics, General

Miscellaneous

  • Desired degree level:

    Master's degree program

  • Graduate schools of interest:

  • Transfer schools of interest:

  • Majors of interest:

  • Not planning to go to medical school
  • Career

    • Dream career field:

      Mental Health Care

    • Dream career goals:

      Therapist, Researcher, Clinician

    • Administrative Assistant

      Quality Health Care Clinic
      2021 – 2021
    • Program Coordinator

      Arab-American Family Support Center
      2022 – Present2 years
    • Outreach Coordinator

      National Asian Pacific American Women's Forum
      2021 – 20221 year

    Research

    • Public Health

      National Asian Pacific American Women's Forum — Outreach Coordinator
      2021 – 2022
    • History and Political Science

      Hunter College — Undergraduate Research Assistant
      2021 – 2021

    Public services

    • Volunteering

      Hunter College — Peer Mentor
      2021 – 2022
    • Volunteering

      Urban Justice Center — Legal Intern
      2021 – 2022
    • Advocacy

      National Asian Pacific American Women's Forum — Volunteer
      2020 – 2021

    Future Interests

    Advocacy

    Politics

    Volunteering

    Philanthropy

    Entrepreneurship

    Youssef University's Muslim Scholarship Fund
    The Hadith, ‘There is no disease that Allah has created, except that He also has created its treatment’ resounded within me during my fourth-grade explorations into disease cures. At that young age, I thought of it only in terms of bodily ailments, an inspiration that fueled my dreams of becoming a doctor. While initially propelling me towards the medical field, this hadith took on a new significance as I navigated the complexities of my college education. As I advanced in my studies and faced the challenges of my first chemistry class, a crucial realization dawned upon me: my chosen path didn't resonate with my inner drive. Moreover, my Muslim identity marked a turning point during my college struggles. As a first-generation Pakistani raised by a single mother, I felt isolated and overwhelmed. Wrestling with this disconnect and academic uncertainty, I sought solace in a Muslim therapist who profoundly influenced my journey. Through her guidance, I underwent transformative change, redefining my self-relationship and deepening my connection with God. I came to understand that what is destined to be will indeed come to pass, and what is intended for me will ultimately reach me. Simultaneously, I realized that what isn't meant for me will never find its way, and it is acceptable to acknowledge that not everything is within my control. My Muslim identity also led me to delve into the rich Islamic perspectives on the human psyche and well-being. Concepts such as Nafs, which denotes the spiritual and psychological self, resonated deeply with me. I read works of Muslim Scholars like Abu Zayd al-Balkhi, who discussed cognitive behavior therapy with the spiritual aspects of the soul, mental hygiene and treatments. He was ahead of his time. Moreover, through his work I learned that mental health had always been integral to our faith but overlooked overtime. Passionate about mental health and cultural sensitivity, I work as a Program Coordinator at the Arab-American Family Support Center. I've crafted and implemented mental health curricula for youth programs, collaborated with the Department of Mental Health for counseling and screenings, and connected students with mental health professionals. I also lead discussions on mental health hygiene with students and their families. Additionally, I've conducted workshops addressing mindfulness, academic success, career paths, leadership, and personal development, all geared towards nurturing the growth of adolescents. Additionally, I channel my curiosity into research as a Research Assistant at Columbia University's Loss Trauma and Emotions department. My work focuses on family dynamics and resilience during the pandemic, aiming to illuminate how families navigate challenges, particularly in the context of COVID-19. Receiving this scholarship is pivotal for my aspirations. It would empower my path at Teachers College, Columbia University, where I'm pursuing a Master's in in Clinical Psychology. This scholarship aligns with my dedication to adhering to Islamic financial principles, as I aim to avoid interest-bearing loans. The scholarship's recognition would also my dedication to mental health advocacy within the Muslim community. I'm resolute in establishing a strong foundation in psychotherapy and research, enhancing my prospects for a Ph.D. program and serve my community as a researcher, clinician and advocate. In the future, I aspire to launch a foundation that would provide mental health access, and work on de-stigmatizing it across diverse communities through a multicultural lens. I'm determined to reshape the norms surrounding seeking help and to cultivate a culture of holistic well-being.