I was sitting in the living room with my neighborhood friend when Breaking News appeared on the news channel. A 21-year-old female found dead on the scene in a car crash, no name had been identified. My mom went in the back to take a phone call and my friend and I remained, laying on the couch. I later discovered it was my aunt. And my life would never be the same. Months passed and I found myself physically ill, appointment after appointment. A 12-year-old, changes occurring throughout my body, one including experiencing grief, and no one had answers. Until finally, we got one. Generalized Anxiety Disorder. My worst enemy. To be the person that I needed when growing up. That’s been my goal since my diagnosis and will remain my goal until my work is completed. I’m from a small town, Ridgeville, where discussing mental health seems like a crime. Feelings? What feelings? Depression? You’re fine. That’s the stigma behind mental health back home and many other rural, low-income communities. I want that to change; it needs to change. My first attempt at advocating for mental health was that I had just graduated high school and had the idea of building a candle business. My mom called it, “The lab under the stairs.” I spent weeks researching candle making, and essential oils that were holistically related to symptoms of anxiety. My first launch was a hit. I recognized the impact my small candle business had on reaching the mental health community and knew there was so much more I could do. As a future School-Based Therapist, I want adolescents to have mental health resources within arm’s reach. The access to have a trusted adult, with resources to help them navigate academic and personal life. An adult, outside of the home, who makes them feel safe and their feelings heard. My personal experiences have allowed me to see the significant need for mental health resources, especially with adolescents. If I had access to this during my stages of grief and elementary to middle school transitions, I’d wonder how different or similar I would be. If I could think big, outside of being a School-Based Therapist, I’d open my own private practice back in my hometown. A place that serves adolescents and young adults in the ways most needed. Providing both individual and group counseling sessions. My goal is that through group, they can see just how special they are, that they aren’t alone. Until then, I will continue working through my graduate program, volunteering through NAMI, and advocating for those seen and unseen in my community. Mental health has allowed me to see the world in a different lens. We all go through things; we have our own seasons of life. Through my experiences, both personal and academic, it is my hope to continue showing up in communities where mental health resources are most needed.

"There is nothing wrong with you, you're too young to be depressed." Mental Health is often overlooked in the African American community, most specifically, underserved and low-income communities. At the age of 13, statistics reveal that 8% of adolescents are affected by an anxiety disorder, and almost 80% of those adolescents do not receive mental health treatment. As the oldest daughter of 7, I grew up in a low-income household, where most of my experiences revolved around stress and parentification. My family either didn't "believe" in mental health conditions, or they took medications to alleviate symptoms; no one ever mentioned therapy, until there was me. Twelve years old, diagnosed with Generalized Anxiety Disorder, and not a single individual within my family knew what to do. My passions and goals have revolved around becoming the individual I needed as an adolescent; a black, female therapist creating an inclusive space for others. My journey has provided me with the opportunity to experience both the role of a client and therapist. Within my practice, I plan to make a positive impact within marginalized communities by providing them with a safe space to feel heard and seen. As a previous therapy client, my goal is for communities to know I understand. I see them. Mental health conversations within marginalized communities have often been met with silence or stigma. I've witnessed how unspoken struggles impacted families and friendships, creating a ripple effect of pain. My hope is that through therapeutic treatment, communities can recognize that they matter. Through mental health services, one of the many ways I want to show up for my community is providing free, group therapy services. Whether LGBTQ+, PTSD, trauma, and children and adolescents, would each have the opportunity to connect with others in a safe space; recognizing they do have peers who care. In my practice, I want individuals to deeply know they are not alone. Advocacy is another positive impact and influence within marginalized communities. As I've advocated for mental health with the National Alliance on Mental Illness, NAMI, I've seen how showing up for your community matters. I plan to create plan and create events that allow for self-care, but also meet the needs of marginalized communities. A vision of hosting a back-to-school event where children can receive free school supplies, parents receiving items they need from the food drive, and mental health services are provided, pro bono, for children who may need evaluations for school. My goal is for families to recognize their mental health is as important as their physical health; this is a basic need and necessity. My vision extends far beyond the present. After completing my Master of Education in Counseling and Development, I aim to establish a counseling center that prioritizes underserved communities. This space will offer, peer mentorship, and culturally sensitive care. More importantly, it will serve as a beacon of hope—a place where barriers to mental health support are replaced with bridges to healing. Mental health isn’t just a career for me; it’s a calling born from personal experience and a desire to uplift and support others. By merging my professional skills with my lived experience, I hope to create a world where no one suffers in silence and everyone knows they are worthy of care.

At the age 13, statistics show that 8% of adolescents are affected by an anxiety disorder. Surprisingly, at the age of 12, I happened to be one of those adolescents. And since then, I’ve made it my mission to ensure that children and adolescents do not have to experience another anxiety disorder alone. In middle school, majority of my days were spent in doctor’s offices. Tests were ran, but somehow they all came back normal. I remember feeling lost and confused, unable to explain to my friends how I really felt. It wasn’t until the end of the semester that I was referred to a psychiatrist and given verbal assessments. The journey of being referred to a psychiatrist was not easy. It was a long and delayed and honestly still left me with more questions. As a 12 year-old, you aren’t necessarily told what’s going on with your body. Doctors are more so talking to your parents, which creates even more anxiety. My family and I spent two years receiving a diagnosis for generalized anxiety disorder, and another five years, searching for the perfect therapist. Throughout this process, I continued missing school, feeling distant from my peers. They wondered where I were , and I couldn’t necessarily give all the details as I didn’t really understand it myself. I couldn’t focus in class due to being concerned about my sweaty palms rubbing against my pencil. I was awful at test taking due to my heart racing at the beginning of the first question. Because of this, my teacher often allowed me to set my test aside and finish it during lunch. Although years later, it wasn’t until I started speaking up for myself that I really started getting answers. My sophomore year of college I discovered the National Alliance on Mental Illness, also known as NAMI. This organization focuses on ending the stigma towards mental health of all communities and age ranges. After discovering this organization, I became a young adult presenter for the ending the silence program. This program meets with adolescence and emerging adults with the community to discuss the warning signs of suicide, mental illness, and self-care. At the end of the presentation, I then have the opportunity to share my own experience with mental illness. My story has allowed me to connect with individuals who are facing the same situation that I faced. My story has also allowed me to provide hope for children and families who are going through the waves of learning about mental illness. For me, college is crucial. College is necessary. There’s a calling on my life to advocate for mental health and show others how to show up for themselves. My goal has always been to become the person that I needed growing up; I will never stop striving to be that person. Pursuing a college degree, is not only important to me, but for my family. It means showing up for myself in times that I didn’t think were possible. It means not giving anxiety the opportunity to win. As I pursue my graduate degree in counseling and development, I will always remember my why. And that is, showing up for the undiagnosed 12-year-old, helping her understand the big emotions and feelings within her body.

First-generation college graduate, dean's list, A/B Honor Roll student, graduate school student, and small business owner are all simply titles for me; they hold value, sure, but they aren't everything. Success, for me, is only measured by the lives I touch and barriers I break. As a first-generation undergraduate student, and now in a graduate program, my journey has been far from easy. My experiences have shaped my passion for mental health advocacy and strengthened my commitment to create a lasting change in my community. I know the effects of feeling unheard, questions about the pathway forward without real answers. Now, my goal is to ensure that others never have to navigate such struggles and seasons alone. Growing up, I witnessed firsthand the effects of untreated mental health challenges. In my community, most specifically the African American community, seeking help was often seen as a weakness, and many simply lacked the resources to receive care. I faced my own mental health struggles as a child while balancing academic expectations, financial stress within my family, and experiencing a traumatic loss. For years, I internalized the belief that I wouldn't find an answer. But when I finally received support, it transformed my life. It was then that I realized my purpose; to become the person I needed as a child by creating a safe space that destigmatizes mental health. My vision is built on the backbone of service. I hope to open my own therapeutic office - one that offers affordable, culturally responsive care to children and adolescents within my community. My mental health clinic will provide community outreach programs and specialized support for populations that are often overlooked. I want to create a space where mental health is seen as a right. As I dream of my passion, I consider my faith to encourage me to accomplish my goal. For Matthew 25:40, "Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me." And I view this scripture as the forefront of my calling and purpose- serving, uplifting, and being a voice for others who are unable to advocate for themselves. This scholarship is more than financial assistance; it allows me to continue creating the blueprint for my plans. The financial strain of graduate school is a challenge, but I refuse to allow it to limit my ability in serving my community. With this scholarship, I can focus on my education while still gaining experience and leadership skills in the mental health community. It will allow me to take part in mentorship programs to shape me into the best licensed counselor in my community that I can be, Beyond my education, I am truly committed to advocating for the mental health community. I want adolescents to know that their voice matters, especially regarding their health. I want them to know that their circumstances, their diagnosis doesn't define them. Success isn't about where you start, or your income, it's about how you use your experiences to uplift others; feeling the reward deep down within, that money simply can't buy. I hope to continue breaking cycles of silence and stigma within the mental health field. For me, success isn't about making my own dreams possible - it's about creating opportunities for others to heal, grow, and develop their own dreams and aspirations. This scholarship is not only an investment to my future; it is an investment in a future where mental health care receives the same care as physical health care.

I remember walking fast down the hallway to reach my school counselor's office for my IGP meeting in 11th grade; I couldn't wait to now be able to leave school early, having enough credit hours for "senior privilege." Until I sat down and realized, it wasn't that conversation. We made eye contact, and with a soft but firm voice, she said, "Ny'Asia, what have you decided for your career path?" There was only one problem though - I had no idea what I wanted to be. My career choices always changed. One day, I was convinced I wanted to be a pediatrician, then a nurse practitioner, then maybe a psychologist. While it all remained in the healthcare field, my thoughts were still all over the place. It wasn't until my sophomore year of undergrad that I finally figured it out - not in a classroom, but through my own experiences. Growing up, I always knew I wanted to help people. I loved the healthcare field, assuming that meant medicine was my path. But life had a way of leading me down a path I didn't necessarily expect. My own struggles with mental health opened my eyes to a problem I could no longer ignore - the lack of compassionate mental health care for children and adolescents. It took my two years to receive my own mental health diagnosis, and in that time, I realized that no one really knew what was happening in my body. That's when it clicked, my calling wasn't to be a doctor or strictly a psychologist - it was to be a licensed counselor in underserving communities, creating spaces where kids and teens could receive the support they deserve. I used to think success was about a career with the highest salary, or the most prestigious title, but I've learned it's really about the impact. I want to be the person I needed when I was younger - the adult who listened, validated my feelings, and who helps children navigate their emotions in a world that overlooks them. My dream now is to open a therapeutic office for children and adolescents in my home town, ensuring they receive the needed care without a long wait that I experienced. A space where they can connect with other individuals and form relationships where they don't feel alone. So, is this the career path and dream that I always envisioned? Well, not quite. But at its core, my goal has always been the same: to become the person I needed as a child with a mental health disorder. My journey took unexpected turns, but every experience and struggle led me to path and passion. And I wouldn't change it for anything.

Excellence, in my own words, means discovering new ways of serving others and using our individual gifts to make a positive impact. For me, demonstrating a spirit of excellence is about being a light to those around me. As a first generation college graduate, and now graduate student, I strive daily to live with a spirit of service, knowing that my calling is to help those around me along the way. Since my sophomore year of undergrad, I have been involved with the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI). Through NAMIWalks, I've assisted in raising awareness and funds for mental health initiatives. Ending the Silence, a program geared towards ending the stigma towards mental health, has challenged me in learning new ways to educate others, while sharing my own personal mental health journey. This past year, I was privileged with the opportunity of representing NAMI South Carolina as a Young Adult Presenter at NAMICon in Denver, CO. These experiences have not only deepened my understanding of mental health but also fueled my desire to expand the means of support for individuals. In addition to my work with NAMI, I've had the ability of speaking on panels for organizations discussing mental health and our inner child. Panel opportunities have allowed me to connect with others, share my insights on healing, and emphasize the idea that we aren't alone. By sharing my own journey, no matter the event, I aim to offer hope and demonstrate resilience in spite of the circumstances. Outside of advocating, I've created a business focusing on promoting self-care and wellness. Through my small business, Grounded By NyAsia, I've been able to host candle-making events for groups of women, providing spaces for relaxation, and most importantly, creativity. My small business allows me to combine my love for candles with my passion for mental health. It allows me to demonstrate one of the many coping strategies I use in my own daily life; showing individuals that we can nurture our well-being in unique ways. My ultimate goal is to open a mental health clinic for children and adolescents that provides affordable, and culturally responsive care to underserved communities. Throughout my own struggles, I've realized that many young adults face mental health challenges with the lack of resources. My hope is that the clinic will offer accessible care that emphasizes the importance of early intervention, ensuring that mental health is seen as a right, not a privilege. This scholarship is important in helping me continue on the path of service and excellence. With financial support, I can continue my masters program, while also striving to find new ways to give back to my community; using my light to inspire others. For me, excellence means giving back selflessly and using my own knowledge and experiences to pour into others. This scholarship will allow me to fulfill my calling in creating a world with mental health is accessible to all, but most importantly, accessible to youth and adolescents.

I’ll never forget the moment a middle school student knocked on my office door, tears streaming down her face. She was overwhelmed by the isolation she felt after being excluded by her peers. In that vulnerable moment, I saw a reflection of myself—an adolescent grappling with big emotions and a world that often felt too heavy. Offering her a safe space to express her feelings and reassuring her that she wasn’t alone reminded me why I chose this path: to be the person I once needed. Growing up in a marginalized community, mental health conversations were often met with silence or stigma. I witnessed how these unspoken struggles impacted families and friendships, creating a ripple effect of pain. These experiences shaped my passion for mental health advocacy and taught me the importance of compassion, patience, and listening—skills I’ve carried into every role I’ve held. As a Crisis Management Assistant, I work directly with students facing behavioral and emotional challenges, guiding them through social-emotional learning programs and restorative practices. Whether I’m de-escalating a crisis or leading a group discussion, I approach each moment with a commitment to fostering resilience. My time as a Registered Behavior Technician further deepened my understanding of how tailored interventions can empower individuals to overcome obstacles. And while my titles have varied, my mission has remained constant: to ensure every person feels seen, valued, and supported. But my work doesn’t stop when the school bell rings. As a young adult presenter for the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), I’ve stood in front of audiences to share my story, breaking down the stigma surrounding mental health. Through these efforts, I’ve connected with countless individuals, each story affirming my belief in the transformative power of empathy and advocacy. My vision extends far beyond the present. After completing my Master of Education in Counseling and Development, I aim to establish a counseling center that prioritizes underserved communities. This space will offer group therapy, peer mentorship, and culturally sensitive care. More importantly, it will serve as a beacon of hope—a place where barriers to mental health support are replaced with bridges to healing. Mental health isn’t just a career for me; it’s a calling born from personal experience and a desire to uplift others. By merging my professional skills with my lived experience, I hope to create a world where no one suffers in silence and everyone knows they are worthy of care.

I heard knocking on the door, followed by a student asking to come in. In an instant, she broke down in tears. A middle school student, overwhelmed and isolated, confided her struggles. That moment reminded me of my own adolescence—uncertain, anxious, and yearning for guidance. Research tells us that nearly 50% of adolescents experience a mental health disorder at some point in their lives. As a Crisis Management Assistant at a middle school, I provide a safe space for students to share their challenges, helping them recognize emotional triggers and develop coping skills. I remind them that middle school is a time of change, a season of growth where old friendships fade, and new ones emerge. My role allows me to be the mentor I once needed, offering support, compassion, and encouragement to students navigating their “big feelings.” My dedication to mental health extends beyond the school. I’ve built a small business centered on self-care—creating candles that spark conversations about mental health. Each candle represents more than a product; it symbolizes hope, healing, and the shared struggles we all face. Customers often open up about their experiences, reinforcing my belief that even small acts can inspire meaningful change. These experiences fuel my ultimate vision: to establish a counseling center for children and adolescents. This center will provide therapy, foster peer connections, and remind young people that they are not alone. By creating spaces where individuals feel seen, heard, and valued, I hope to empower the next generation to embrace their inner strength. I am committed to advocating for mental health, not just through my work but through my life’s mission. My academic and professional journey is rooted in this purpose—to help others heal, grow, and thrive. Whether through a conversation with a struggling student or a candle that lights the way, I aim to share a little light with the world.

As you enter the front door, the doorbell rings, alerting staff someone has entered. The space is filled with natural light, calming sounds, and aromatherapy. You are greeted by staff, and you then decide what you would rather do first; start on homework while waiting for your peers, grab a quick snack, or partake in the sensory room. Time is up; it's time to join the group circle. My goal in life has always been simple; to become who I needed as a child; An individual who makes my mental well-being their top priority, while providing a safe space. While the goal has always been the same, I recognize that accomplishing goals and achievements does not happen overnight. After earning a master's degree in Counseling and Development, my goal is to open Grounded in a Safe Space; a mental health counseling center. Grounded in a Safe Space would provide both therapy services to children and adolescents, including both one-on-one and group counseling sessions. The drive behind creating Grounded in a Safe Space comes from my own personal experiences. At the age of 12, I was diagnosed with Generalized Anxiety Disorder. At this age, I didn't have peers or family, that I could relate to; I felt as if I no longer fit in. I want children to know that being different makes them special; teaching them to embrace and recognize their cognitive differences. My goal is to provide a safe space in the community where children and adolescents feel both heard and seen. It provides them with trusted adults, as well as peers to connect with throughout group services. Grounded in a Safe Space stems from my first business, Grounded By NyAsia. At the age of 20, I created a candle-making business to demonstrate the importance of self-care and advocating for mental health. I saw at a young age that entrepreneurship is not easy; however, when you have a strong passion for the topic, it makes it much easier. Throughout Grounded By NyAsia, I participated in many festivals and vendor events to promote the business and what it means to me—the ability to participate in entrepreneurship, as an African American female is truly significant and powerful. To build our own businesses from the ground up is something that I am proud of and want to continue participating in. As I complete graduate school, my goal is more than simply opening a counseling center. My goal is to show others, especially the African American community, that our mental health is just as important as our physical health. When we advocate for ourselves, we show strength in areas we didn't think were possible; we show our children that they matter, in every area.

I checked my email daily; several times a week, multiple times a day, reminding myself that God didn't bring me this far, to leave me. Until finally, I saw it. "Your request is approved... we will grant a dependency override in future academic years as we receive your FAFSA." I don't think I've ever cried so many tears of joy in my life. After months of praying, fasting, and leaning on my faith, I finally received a dependency override due to my circumstances. God did it. My life has been far from easy. The oldest of 5, I set the tone for my younger siblings. To demonstrate responsibility and determination in a world where the system wasn't always created to support minority college students. I beat the odds. A first-generation, neurodivergent, minority college student, determined to join the 11% of African Americans who make up the Professional Counselor category in the mental health field. My life goals have always been the same, to become the person I needed as a child. I was diagnosed with Generalized Anxiety Disorder at the age of 12, and Depression at 18. These were just titles for me. While I struggled, I grew up with a grandmother who reminded me that "trouble don't last always", and a mother who made me memorize Psalm 23. To this day, the reminders are needed throughout storms. Fast-forwarding to my sophomore year, things became challenging at home, leaving me fully independent, relying on my own student loans and a part-time job. After researching, I realized I couldn't technically complete my FAFSA on my own, so my financial aid advisor guided me through the steps to receiving a financial override. I completed my application and received three letters of reference from those familiar with my case and family history to assist in submitting my request. Waiting was the hardest part. Although it only took one month, it felt like the longest month ever. When I finally saw the email, it almost felt as if everything I was carrying was lifted off of my shoulders. I could finish my undergraduate years without having to worry about whether I would be able to attend college without parental FAFSA information. It was more than just being approved though; it was a sign that my heavenly Father heard my cry. Being independent after turning 18 is one challenge, but being financially responsible for yourself, including college, was more than I expected it to be. I often reminded myself that it was only, "delayed, not denied", but sometimes you want to feel heard. You want to feel seen. By relying on my faith, I know that I can accomplish anything I set my mind to. Most specifically, I have the opportunity to become a licensed mental health counselor, striving to become the person I needed while growing up.

I have always wanted to be the person that I wish I had growing up. Sometimes in this life, we are given things and obstacles that we do not necessarily ask for, yet they are given anyway. I grew up in a single-parent household until I was about three years old. My mother and father decided not to stay together, which made my life a little difficult. I spent most of my life going back and forth between households to spend each holiday with both sides of my family. My childhood became even more difficult when my aunt passed away. I lost someone who was a constant figure in my life, which made it harder for me to cope. Her death had such a significant impact on my life that I was diagnosed with Generalized Anxiety Disorder when I was twelve years old. As I have gotten older and learned more about mental health conditions, I have become an advocate. With my major in Human Development and Family Studies, I plan to work in the social work or counseling field. My ultimate goal is to create a facility for young adolescents who struggle with their mental health to know that they are not alone. Creating this facility is important because I want children to have a support system, and a connection with other young people to know that they are not alone during these hard times. Throughout this facility, I want children to be about to connect with others who are experiencing similar things they are going through. A safe space should truly be a safe space, so I want children to be comfortable with opening up to myself and their peers. When creating my future business, I want it to be a fun yet beneficial therapeutic experience. Children should still be able to learn to express themselves while still being able to interact with others. I want to use this group experience to show them that it is okay not to be okay. There are so many other children going through similar things, so instead of holding it in, let us figure out coping skills to get through this rough patch. I realized that I wanted to make a positive impact at a very young age. Although mental health is common in experience, it is not common enough through conversations. I started the conversation. In middle school and high school, I began opening up about my mental health. My teachers were always there when I needed their support. Last year, I became a young adult presenter for the National Alliance on Mental Illness, NAMI. Throughout their Ending the Silence program, I speak with adolescents and families about my lived experience with a mental health condition. They can connect and ask questions of their own. Within one of my college courses, at the end of this semester, I will be certified in Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health. This certification is the first step in getting my foot in the door of my future career. My own experiences have led me to want to always and continue to give back to my community. Regardless of what comes my way, I will continue to strive and create conversations about mental health.

To walk into a room and see a big, bright smile on a child’s face is what motivates me in my future career aspirations. If I had to define a career, I would say it drives a person to be the best they can with the highest potential, doing what you love every day. I have decided to major in Human Development and Family Studies. The career aspect is vast with this major, which is a reason I chose the major. This major is motivating to me because I can work and help in various ways. Whether I decide to become a future therapist or social worker, I know I can impact each child’s life. Helping children get through their current obstacles in life is a task that I cannot wait to be a part of. Being the person a child looks forward to seeing after a tough day is an emotion that I cannot wait to feel. In the therapy aspect, many children do not dare to have the courage to talk to a stranger, let alone express their feelings at all. I was once that child, and I strive to let the next child know that it is truly okay not to be okay. Having a career within the mental health field is very motivating because I have been there and done that; therefore, I know what these children are going through emotionally, which is why I have considered majoring in it. I have decided to choose this path because each child going through tough situations need the right support system to help get them through; I aspire to be that support system. Knowing that I will be apart of a child’s support system motivates me to get through college and earn my degree. As I have gotten older and learned how to manage my anxiety, my support system has grown, and I know what a healthy support system should be. I aspire to help a child know what that strong support system feels like and how to tell the difference between what is and what is not. In my college career, I have realized that I want to be the person that I wish I had growing up. I want to assist young children and adolescents in managing their life circumstances, along with their mental health. I know that this job is not always easy; however, it is something that I dream of doing because the little ones within our community need us. They need to know that there are individuals who can empathize with them and help them cope with the stressors of life, and I hope to one day be one of those individuals.

Recognizing that I get the chance to be great every day is one of the things that college excites me the most about. I find it intriguing to learn something new every day. Part of me is adventurous, while the other half tends to be very introverted. I have learned that it's a balance, trial and error situation. Encountering new individuals around campus is one of the most interesting things because you can connect and interact with individuals who are different from yourself. As an emerging adult, I understand what it takes to live in this adult world; it's not easy, to be honest. Most of adulthood comes with knowing how to balance; whether that is the work-life balance, personal versus business balance, or even the school balance, it all can be a challenge. For me, adjusting to a new routine can be difficult. In maintaining a healthy mind, I began with therapy again. Admiting to what I face in school, I have to realize that there are individuals who are willing and want to help; it is their job. Remembering where you come from is another important aspect throughout these years. We learn most of life’s lessons throughout our families or caregivers while growing up. Throughout college, I am learning new things, and recognizing that some of the behaviors and habits I brought from home were not the healthiest. Our souls are a beautiful thing, and we have to take care of them. By creating the time to sit down and pray, recognize my blessings, and being grateful for where I am is important for me. Life can become stressful, especially for a college student, so it is important to live and be in the moment. I continue to pray for better days and remain content with where I am right now. I know that there is always room growth, it just takes a little time, sometimes longer than we expected. College has allowed me to separate myself and connect on levels I previously never thought of; I get the chance to discover who I am. Unveiling what I like and dislike, what I am comfortable with, and simply things I would not be okay with, discovering who I am is truly the most beautiful thing ever; and it is the most exciting thing about college. While college is primarily for learning, there is also a shadow of something worth revealing; learning ourselves. Learning the goals of our lives and what it takes to get there. The “twentysomethings” are the most important years of our lives, something we will never get back; recognizing what excites us, while taking care of ourselves overall, is crucial in our college careers.

Our mental health is just as important as our physical health. As individuals, we cannot be our best selves if we do not care for our minds and bodies. Creating a healthy lifestyle is extremely important because I want to feel good in all aspects. We feel better when we feed our bodies the proper nutrients and resources. In order to create a healthy lifestyle, I had to make some changes. Whether it was food, social media, or the distractions around me, I decided to make the necessary changes to feel more like myself. I began reading more, being active in nature, and trying new activities to live a healthy lifestyle mentally. Allowing those changes to occur has ultimately led me to come out of my comfort zone. In the physical aspect, I began going for walks, attending Zumba and Yoga classes, and adjusting my diet. Although it was difficult initially, I decided to cut out red meat due to its side effects. Once finding alternatives, I found that it is much healthier while still tasting good. My family members possess conditions such as type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure. I must make these lifestyle changes to prevent those things from occurring. When I began to feed my mind and body in the best ways possible, I noticed a significant difference that improved my life.

Within two hours of my website opening, I sold out of all my products. During those two hours, I experienced a handful of emotions. My new hobby turned into a business that has opened the door for opportunities in my life that I am beyond grateful for. I found a love for candle-making in hopes of discovering a new coping skill for my anxiety. Making candles and wax melts allows me to come out of my comfort zone by trying something new and putting myself out there for the public. I created Grounded By NyAsia as an outlet for my mental health disorder. I use essential oils in my products because they are helpful for my anxiety and depression. My passion for candle-making has created an outlet for networking that I did not think or believe could happen. I have met and spoken with individuals across the state discussing all things candle related. I now attend vendor events and meet with other candle makers, discussing what has and has not worked. My passion has led me to meet many individuals who love candles just as much as I do. Although my business started as a hobby, it has thrived into a small business I love. I began making candles as a creative outlet to cope with life challenges. Though it is a business now, I love gifting candles to individuals as a reminder that there is so much more to life. Making candles has allowed me to see the world and individuals differently because we all have a gift; we just have to be willing to use it. Being a candle maker has its good and bad days; however, I enjoy it when customers come to me with new ideas because it challenges me. Before making my own candles, change was extremely hard for me. I tend to stick to a routine and schedule because it helps me when needed to cope. However, my passion has demonstrated to me how beautiful change is. Simply changing the colors of the candles or the wick I use gives me the opportunity to not only grow my business but show that change is welcome in all aspects. I found a hobby for myself that also grows me as an individual and my business. I hope to continue to thrive as an individual and an entrepreneur. I hope that my coping skill influences others in demonstrating the many ways to deal with the ups and downs of life. My passion has become one of my favorite hobbies and coping skills that has impacted my life for the better, and I could not be more grateful.

To walk into a room and see a big, bright smile on a child’s face is what motivates me in my future career aspirations. Ultimately, creating a facility for young adolescents who struggle with their mental health to know that they are not alone. As a Human Development and Family Studies major, I aim to go into both the Social Work and Counseling fields. Mental health is a significant aspect of the lives of both young adolescents and their families. Creating this facility and obtaining my degree allows me to create a safe space that I wish I had or knew of growing up. To have a willing heart that wants to pursue social work and human services fields is amazing; having the living experience behind such circumstances makes it much more meaningful. Since being a young child, I have always supported my community. I currently am a member of both the Social Work Club and the Winthrop University Student Council on Family Relations on campus. Within these clubs, we focus on the physical and emotional needs of the community. I hope to continue to be a member throughout my undergraduate years. Although many may not realize it, our mental health is just as important as our physical health, so I became a member of NAMI, the National Alliance on Mental Illness. I originally joined NAMI with the idea of volunteering for events throughout the community until I was given a much greater task. I am a Young Adult Presenter for their Ending the Silence program. Throughout this program, I meet with students, teachers, faculty members, and parents to discuss my experience living with a mental health condition. This experience has changed me in ways that I cannot express. I share with students my age when I was diagnosed my experience in school and other environments. I support my community by opening the conversation. If it is not open, individuals will never receive the help they need. As a community, it is our job to come together and help those when they feel as if they are falling short. To impact social change means to create a positive effect on the future, to make tomorrow better than the day before. In life, we all struggle at some point. Some individuals need more help than others at times, and there is nothing wrong with that; however, asking for help has become stigmatized in ways that prevent individuals from speaking up. Impacting social change means that each individual has access to the resources they need, whether financial, physical, or mental. It means we come together as a community to ensure our neighbors are okay, regardless of the circumstances.

College can make or break you. Attending a higher level education is an amazing opportunity to consider because it can lead you to higher places. While guiding you to higher places, you meet individuals who challenge your thinking and broaden your perspectives. As a college student, you think you know your desired major, and it can change within the next semester because you have found something that interests you more. College is about discovering the topics or life skills you knew nothing about. Although you can find a job without a degree, having a college degree allows you to find a higher-paying job. Finding your home away from home is guaranteed while on a college campus. You meet individuals who are different yet connect with you in various ways. Diversity is important on a college campus because you find unique individuals that allow you to see how different the world around you is. As an individual in the emerging adulthood stage, it is important to do things that are out of your comfort zone. This is the time to grow and flourish into the person you are meant to become. You do not experience the same circumstances that other twenty-year-olds experience without attending college. Attending college is an amazing opportunity because it has the potential to lead and take you to higher places.

The walls felt as if they were closing in on me. I could not catch my breath for the life of me; I suddenly felt claustrophobic. I could not quite grasp others’ conversations around me, and to top it all off, the world around me seemed to be falling apart. I was only ten years old when I experienced my first panic attack, a situation I could not seem to control. My experience with mental health has had a tremendous impact and influence on my life. Although my anxiety does not define who I am, my mental health has changed my life in ways that I could not have imagined. I am very cautious about the relationship aspect of my life. Some individuals do not take mental health as seriously as they should; therefore, I sometimes hesitate to aware people of my diagnosis. When I am comfortable and more trusting of the person, I then let them know and see that close part of me. It is difficult sometimes to open up; however, most people understand and give me the space that I need when necessary. It is beneficial to have supportive people on your side because they are there instantly to help when having a bad day. Over the past few years of my life, I have learned that it is okay not to be okay sometimes. We all have bad days, and there is nothing wrong with that. It is about what we do and our actions when those bad days occur. I believe that therapy can help when needed, and I am a huge advocate for coping skills. My mental health has influenced my thinking and beliefs because I think in ways I have not considered before; I challenge my fears. To walk into a room and see a big, bright smile on a child’s face is what motivates me in my future career aspirations. While majoring in Human Development and Family Studies, I plan to work in the Social Work or Counseling field. I desire to work in these fields because I want to be the person I wish I had growing up. Those who enjoy working around mental health are blessings; they have a real gift. It takes a person with the courage to work in this career field, knowing how tough it may be. Some decide to work in the mental health field simply because they are interested and want to help; others have a story behind it. My story is something that has had a significant impact on my life. I often think about how my life would be if I were not diagnosed with this disorder; till my therapist reminds me that I am not my anxiety, it is only a part of my life at this moment. One day, I hope one day that I can encourage someone and remind them that this is just a rough day, not a rough life. Although it may be difficult to see sometimes, my mental health has had a significant impact on my life; whether a good or bad day, I plan to continue to share my story in hopes to show others that our life does not end while living with a mental health condition.

The hardest thought I have had to answer in my teenage years relates to the ideas of my purpose. As individuals, we go and grow through life changes that ultimately affect us later in life. These changes make an impact and can positively or negatively influence the lives of others. In my own words, the meaning of life is to love and be loved and use your potential to make a lifelong lasting influence in the best areas you see fit. At twelve years old, I was diagnosed with Generalized Anxiety Disorder. As a twelve-year-old, my emotions and thoughts could not relate to what this meant. Furthering my years as a high schooler, I always thought about what my diagnosis meant for me. As a current twenty-year-old, I still contemplate its meaning; however, I use my voice to discover it. I make a lifelong lasting influence by being an advocate. I advocate for individuals who are unable to pay attention to both their minds and their bodies. I advocate for twelve-year-olds who currently experience my past experiences. We all go through things in life, but no one ever said we had to do them alone; that is what life is all about. We were created to love and be loved; to love individuals who do not look like us and individuals who do not talk like us. Individuals were designed to be different, and the meaning of life is to discover these differences and diversities. I do my best to join various clubs, one including the Social Work Club and organizations, NAMI, to discover my potential and purpose; because that is what life is all about.

As someone living with a mental health condition, I thought of many different ways to help those within my community. Identifying ways to end the stigma or create resources is always helpful; however, sometimes, these things are not always enough. A practical solution for helping the mental health community involves creating conversations with individuals. Allowing for conversations to occur creates room for educating unfamiliar individuals, acknowledging resources, and ending the stigma. As someone with Generalized Anxiety Disorder, I find it helpful when people create conversations because it allows for room to grow. Until people are aware of symptoms or warning signs, they will never know what to look out for. When people are more comfortable discussing symptoms, they are more open to saying, “maybe I need to reach out for help.” They know what to look out for within their friendships, if not themselves. When I create conversations within my friend circles, I explain what I go through daily, and they help me as needed. It does not take much to educate someone; however, we have to be willing to be open about mental health. Discussing this topic in-depth can be challenging for some, but until the conversation is created, they will never receive the full amount of assistance that they need. To create conversations, we need to network. Contacting schools, most specifically beginning with middle schools, is one of the best ways to start because, from my own experience, this is the age where children begin to ask those questions. Although it may be a challenge to create conversations, it will be worth it in the end in order to connect and help those within the mental health community.

In the blink of an eye, everything in life can be taken away from you. The world is constantly changing, and you never know what can happen next. Through the good and the bad events of life, we must remain humble because the unexpected can occur at any moment. I wake up each day with a grateful heart. I realize that if I woke up this morning, I have another chance at life, another chance at making an impact. As individuals, we are always quick to make plans and events; however, we never really know how things could occur. By waking up each morning, I realize that I have a rare opportunity to do something great; because somewhere, somehow, someone did not get the chance. It is helpful for me to use my gratitude app. Throughout this app, I can write down three things that I am grateful for each day and an affirmation. This app is beneficial because it allows me to think of something different I am grateful for each day, allowing me to reflect on the day. Living with gratitude is important because we need to appreciate the little things in life. Things may not always go how we want them to; however, being grateful for our opportunities will always be more than enough.

The lack of resources can make or break your diet. As a college student, it can be difficult attempting to eat healthy when your campus has limited food options. Although we may attempt to eat healthy, each corner on campus has fast food options available, which makes it more convenient to the college student. It is easier to pick up the fried foods because the lines are shorter and it is less of a wait. Meanwhile, we are doing more damage to our bodies by not going the extra mile to eat healthy. Change is necessary. This past semester, I enrolled into a Nutrition class. Throughout my this course, I learned healthy eating habits versus unhealthy eating habits. I also learned how to incorporate healthy nutrients into my diet. Upon one assignment, it was needed of me to keep track of a food diary for a week. Over the course of the week, I listed what I ate for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks in between. After my week of logging was completed, I then input my diet into our diet analysis app. Upon my results, I noticed that I was not consuming enough carbohydrates, and my sodium levels were extremely high. You may think you are eating healthy, but after reviewing a diet journal, you realize there could have been healthier choices. I want to change my poor eating habits because I do not want to continue these unhealthy patterns later in life. If I do not change my eating habits, then I could potentially experience high blood pressure, diabetes, and other health issues as I age. Unhealthy eating affects our bodies in general. I was diagnosed with Generalized Anxiety Disorder; therefore, what I eat also affects my mind. I noticed that when I indulge in junk food, it leaves me feeling unenergized. I want to change my eating habits so I can feel better within both my mind and my body. Consistency is key when forming new and healthy habits. I will maintain my goal of healthy eating by switching foods for healthier options. Although it may not taste the same, eating the healthier version of a snack like chips, can benefit in the long run by broadening my healthier diet. I find it helpful to keep up with my food journal because it allows me to keep track of what I have consumed throughout the day. Cooking meals myself can make my healthy eating journey more enjoyable because I am able to try recipes out for myself. The journey to a healthier lifestyle may not always be easy, however it will be worth it in order to live a long and healthy life!

Hobbies can go a long way. They allow us to demonstrate our creativity and show others a new and creative talent. My favorite hobby consists of candle making. I developed the candle-making hobby in search of a new coping skill for my Anxiety. Making candles creates a sense of calmness and relaxation that I do not always get from other coping mechanisms. I use a wooden wick when creating my candles, which crackles when it burns. The wooden wick assists in easing my Anxiety because the crackling sounds remind me of a warm and calming fireplace. Along with making candles, I began to make wax melts as well. I have made wax melts in the shapes of pumpkins, flowers, and Christmas trees. This hobby allows me to come out of my shell by continually making and trying new things, which is not always easy. Throughout my hobby, I have been able to demonstrate to others a new way to cope with the struggles of life. Candle making is a hobby of mine that I hope to continue to partake in to expand my comfort zone.

To walk into a room and see a big, bright smile on a child’s face is what motivates me in my future career aspirations. My personal experience shapes my goals, relationships, and understanding of the world. I was diagnosed with Generalized Anxiety Disorder when I was only 12 years old. Now that I am 20 years old, I have learned and experienced various things over the past eight years. Having a mental health condition allows you to connect with the world differently, both positively and negatively. I understand that each individual thinks differently than I do. Although I think it is normal to think of an exit route or hypothetical situation every time I am in a new environment, some people believe that it is unnecessary. People with mental health conditions think differently from those who do not have one, and although it is not a bad thing, it allows you to realize the significance of how different we all are. It can be challenging to form and strengthen relationships at times with a mental health condition. I am someone who needs constant reassurance; otherwise, I tend to become panicky and not develop a sense of trust. There are days when I do not feel like creating conversations; this can create a tense situation between a person and myself because they tend to think the problem relates back to them when it is not always the case. Living with Generalized Anxiety Disorder has forced me to open up and be able to create healthy boundaries for and within myself. It is okay to open up to the right people and let them know that today may simply not be a good day. Most importantly, I have had to pay attention to my triggers. As someone with a mental health condition, it is important to know your triggers, that way, you can look out for certain things in a new or familiar environment. I am passionate about having a career in the mental health field because I know what it is like to feel tired and scared to move because any sudden thought could trigger a panic attack. I want to help the next person because no one should have to experience that feeling alone. Those who enjoy working around mental health are blessings; they have a real gift. It takes a person with the courage to work in this career field, knowing how tough it may be. Some decide to work in the mental health field simply because they are interested and want to help; others have a story behind it. My story is something that has had a significant impact on my life. I often think about how my life would be if I were not diagnosed with this disorder; till my therapist reminds me that I am not my anxiety, it is only a part of my life at this moment. One day, I hope my story motivates the next person to achieve their goals, regardless of their diagnosis. One day, I hope one day that I can encourage someone and remind them that this is just a rough day, not a rough life.

Discovering a passion and sticking with it is one of the most important things a person can accomplish. Newfound hobbies can open the door to various opportunities if you only believe in yourself and put forth your best effort. Over the past summer, my greatest passion came from candle-making. In hopes of finding an additional coping skill for my anxiety, I came across the idea and making my own candles using essential oils. Candle-making is one of my favorite hobbies because it allows me to come out of my comfort zone by not only trying something new but by showing others one of the healthiest ways of coping with a mental illness. During the beginning of COVID, I was encouraged by my therapist to find a new coping skill. After days and weeks of researching, I scrolled past a video of a small business owner creating her own candles. I immediately became interested and decided to order the supplies to try them out for myself. From melting the wax to adding in fragrance oils, the process of making candles immensely calms me down. I enjoy this hobby because while candle-making is relaxing, I am able to use fragrances that contain essential oils that are best for both anxiety and depression. Candle-making may ease my anxiety, but it also tells my story. Over the past year, I have been more open about my mental health. I have received messages from family members expressing how they have seen me grow, encouraging them to ask and receive help. By making candles, I want people to know that there are various ways we can express ourselves. I choose to put all my anxious feelings to work by doing something that eases the nerves and creates an amazing product. I never thought I would start a business by making candles, but I have. I have shipped candles to New Mexico, North Carolina, and even Illinois. Having my candles shipped across the country gives me an unexplainable feeling. My favorite coping skill turned into a hobby that is now a passion, and I will forever be grateful for that. Although some days are not always easy, I look back and realize how far I have come and how much I have grown. Creating candles has become my favorite hobby because it allows me to share my story through simple fragrances and show others that there is always light at the end of the tunnel.

I am an advocate in reading books that relate to your current life status; inspirational books. My favorite book is “Get Out of Your Head: Stopping the Spiral of Toxic Thoughts” by Jennie Allen. Allen not only gives advice regarding anxiety, but she uses scripture to back up her advice. I grew up in a religious family; therefore, it is important for me to still know who holds the power. Majority of her advice concerning anxiety comes with mental health exercises. These exercises consist of creating and following charts, and relating our negative thoughts to a positive thought that is from God. Jennie Allen allows readers to realize throughout the book that we cannot continue to listen to the lies the enemy, and ourselves continue to tell us. In the reading, she uses a scripture from Proverbs, “As he thinks in his heart, so is he”. We are not what we eat or drink, but we are what we think because our words hold power. This book is a favorite of mine because it reminds me that I have the power to control my thoughts. I have the power to think and do positively. As humans, we sometimes forget that we deserve to be celebrated, loved and feel special. How can we do any of those things if we continue to possess negative thoughts about ourselves and the world around us? “Get Out of Your Head: Stopping the Spiral of Toxic Thoughts” is one of my favorite reads because the author allows readers to feel heard; Allen is authentic in her words. It is hard for someone with a mental health condition to realize their worth; however, when those thoughts are related and compared back to scripture, readers are reminded of who they are.

I’ve always had a big heart for my community, but when it comes to advocating for mental health, there is something about it that just makes my heart sing. My name is NyAsia and I am a sophmore at Winthrop University. After graduating and obtaining my degree in Human Development and Family Studies, I plan on working within the Social Work or Counseling field. When it comes to making a positive impact on the world, I remind myself that the sky is the limit. With that being said, my ultimate goal is to create a group therapy facility for young adolescents who struggle with their mental health, to know that they are not alone, and they have a safe space to connect with others. I was diagnosed with Generalized Anxiety Disorder when I was only twelve years old. It was tough not knowing what was going on within my body, let alone finding the right help. Creating this facility is important to me because I want children to have a support system and a connection with other young people to know that they are not alone during these hard times. Throughout this facility, I want children to be able to connect with others who are experiencing similar things they are going through. A safe space should truly be a safe space, so I want these children to be comfortable with opening up to myself and their peers. This facility is important for me to accomplish because I think there needs to be more opportunities revolving around mental health. When going to therapy, it can become nerve-wrecking to meet a new therapist. It can be even harder on a child who has trouble opening up to someone. As a child growing up with anxiety, it was tough not knowing how to manage it, let alone finding the right therapist for me. My experience motivates me because I want to help children who have and are going through what I have. Each child experiencing a mental illness needs the right support system to help get them through, and I aspire to be that support system. Knowing that I will be apart of a child’s support system motivates me to get through college and earn my degree. Some decide to work in the mental health field simply because they are interested and want to help; others have a story behind it. My story is something that has had a significant impact on my life. I often think about how my life would be if I were not diagnosed with this disorder; till my therapist reminds me that I am not my anxiety, it is only a part of my life in this moment. One day, I hope one day that I can encourage someone and remind them that this is just a rough day, not a rough life. The sky is the limit, and in some way, shape or form, I plan to make a positive impact on the mental health community.

Graduated high school. Started therapy. Started a candle business. Zip lined over water. Made the Dean’s List. Drove on the highway. The little things are what matter the most. Before the pandemic, I found myself very introverted, and reserved. Throughout the pandemic, I found myself still very introverted, but more anxious than I have ever been. Yet, the list above demonstrates my bravery and courage throughout the past two years. I successfully graduated high school, in the class of 2020, in spite of the world tumbling around me. I made the courageous idea to start back with therapy, which is not as easy as it sounds. Throughout finding coping skills for my anxiety, I discovered the hobby of candle making. I use my talents to show others how beautiful life is. Starting a business is the test of true bravery because it could have the potential of going really well, or failing. Luckily for me, people love new ways to coping with their own life, even if it is only with a candle. I faced my fears and zip lined over the summer! Did I mention it was over water? Definitely a sign of bravery. Driving was and sometimes still is a fear of mine. I practice bravery by telling myself affirmations while on the road. I remind myself that if I focus on what I am doing and stay in my own lane, I am doing the best I can to keep everyone around me safe, including myself. My list may not be as significant as someone else’s, however, it is significant to me. These events are important to me because they were things I did not think I could ever do. Being brave in everything I do is a motivation to myself, and maybe even someone else.

Your involvement within the community can have an abundant impact on your image and those your deciding to give back to. Being involved within your community can help open doors to many opportunities and allow us to see the good we have done. I have been actively involved within my community since my freshman year of high school, completing over thirty volunteer hours each semester. As an active member of my schools Student Council and HOSA, I have been able to help with many opportunities throughout my community. From the year of 2018 till this day, I have been able to volunteering with a local church helping with a food banks, blood drives, and even the Susan G Komen Walk for Breast Cancer. Involvement with these activities have been my most favorite because I am able to put a smile on the faces of those who come in. Whether it’s having a conversation with them or listening to them vent about their current situation, that small moment means the most to them. These group of people want to accomplish the same thing as I do; to help the community. Watching us all come together for an important cause is an incredible experience. Seeing the faces of the ones in my community after giving back, gives me an unexplainable feeling of joy. Although some tasks consisted of more work than others, I was nonetheless proud of myself for deciding to help my community. I currently participate in community and volunteer service with NAMI, the National Alliance on Mental Health. In the future, I plan to continue my involvement in my community by reaching out to more Mental Health facilities in need of volunteers. I am dedicated to helping my community because everyone could use some help every now and then. We were not necessarily asked to be in this world, therefore I think we should all be generous enough to lend a helping hand. I am so dedicated to help my community because I realize that some of us struggle more than others. Sometimes life gives us lemons, and we have to decide the lemonade, or the good we make out of it. Giving back does not only help those in need, but it encourages me to continue to help the next person. My most significant take away from these community service experiences is realizing how much of an impact we make on individuals. It allows you to reflect on your own life, and the opportunities around you. This scholarship has allowed me see all of the volunteer work that I have done, and all that I will continue to do.

The purpose and meaning of life is to just take it one day at a time. Many times we like to plan things out, mostly our lives, not understanding that things can change in the blink of an eye. The meaning of life is to simply live. Tomorrow is not promised; therefore, we have to enjoy each and every moment of the life we experience. I look at life and realize that I have a purpose. I am here because I have been called to do something in this world. I achieve the meaning of life by figuring out what fulfills my purpose and calling. You are not living if you are not doing what you have been called to do. Life is about happiness, laughter, joy, sometimes even sadness, but that is what makes life so great. We have to experience each emotion in different aspects of our lives to experience what it means to live truly. We do not achieve the meaning of life on our own; if we did, we would be the only individuals in our environment, furthering our definition of the meaning of life. I live each day like it could be my last. I wake up each morning with the mindset of accomplishing at least one thing that could make someone else’s day. And I do it all over again, each and every day, with no regrets.

At the top of the stairs, my heart was beating out of my chest. With the harness tugging on my thighs, I couldn’t believe what I had gotten myself into. It was finally my turn. Too scared to look down, I went for it. I zip-lined over a lake, countless feet in the air. I was proud of myself, to say the least. I deserved to be happy. I was having panic attacks left and right this week, so facing my fears felt amazing. I did something I didn’t think I could do, proving my anxiety wrong.

As a person with Generalized Anxiety Disorder, I struggled thinking about an answer to this question. I looked at it from my viewpoint. What solution would I want someone to give me on the days I struggle? Many ideas and solutions came to my mind, but only one of them stood out; conversation. Due to the pandemic, mental health statistics have entirely risen. More people are coming forward and admitting that they are struggling. This was not previously done because people were scared to realize what was happening with their bodies; stigma exists. With stigma revolving around mental health, not many individuals are willing to open themselves to others, and that is a problem because how will they receive the needed help if they are afraid to ask for help? Conversation is an excellent solution for helping people who struggle with their mental health because we realize that we are not alone. Creating conversations allows for the stigma to end while still educating people on what mental health truly is. I have become more open about my Anxiety and Depression. I have become so open that I have friends who send me texts on days when they're struggling or ask for advice on coping. I even became a Young Adult Presenter for a Mental Health Organization in which I share my story to students about my anxiety and recovery process. Openly talking about mental health shows others that it is okay not to be okay sometimes. It also shows others that they have the power to end the stigma against mental health too. Creating conversation is a critical solution in helping those struggling because you never honestly know who is struggling on the inside without them telling you.

I never imagined a coping skill turning into a potential business from a hobby. My passion is candle-making. I began making candles as a coping mechanism to ease my anxiety, and I fell in love with the process. It is a different and unique craft because not every person can make their own candle. I can walk into my closet for each holiday and season and grab the needed supplies to make my own candles or wax melts. My goal is only to get better. Although I never saw my candles thriving, I have to dream big because I want others to see that there are so many positive crafts in the world that can help divert our thoughts from the negativity of life. I want others to see that you can do anything you set your mind to, and if it is important to you, it matters. My story lives through my candles, and I will continue to spread the light, no matter what it takes.

You never grow in places where you are comfortable. To truly flourish in life, we must take steps that require us to step out of our comfort zones, which is not always easy. I have always had the urge to be there for others, to show up when someone needed encouragement. Sometimes it is easy to do so, sometimes it is not, but it is always worth it in the end. When I was twelve years old, I was diagnosed with Generalized Anxiety Disorder. Since my diagnosis, I have always wanted to make an impact somehow but was too scared to say anything. Until recently, I took a big step in doing something great. It was a regular day, except it was six in the morning, and I simply could not sleep. I began to look for volunteer opportunities when I came across NAMI, the National Alliance on Mental Health and decided to put in an application form. A few days later, I heard back from someone who sent my interest form to those who completed the volunteer work. Along with that email, I received another email from someone over the Ending the Silence program. I had never heard much about this program, so I completed my own research and attended a Zoom meeting with one of the program managers. While hearing her discuss the program, I instantly fell in love with it. Ending the Silence aims to spread the word to students regarding Mental Health. In this program, we talk to students of all ages, expressing how to receive help or warning signs regarding suicide. After the Zoom meeting, I attended training to become a presenter for Ending the Silence. By becoming a presenter, I can share my own personal story regarding my anxiety with other students. Throughout my story, I can share some of my symptoms and positive coping mechanisms that benefit my recovery process. When it comes to the Mental Health community, I do my best always to show up, to allow our voices to be heard. There are so many individuals struggling with their mental health that they are afraid to speak up. By sharing my own story and encouraging others to do so, our goal is to end the stigma towards mental health. Being a part of this community is extremely important because it allows me to see that I am not alone. I have made many connections by participating in this fantastic program and organization. As a member of NAMI, not only am I able to share my story, but it has created a positive impact and influence on my life. I am sharing something so personal with others to understand that they are not alone. They, too, have a story to tell, and my goal is to help them understand that we are in this together.

The walls felt as if they were closing in on me. I could not catch my breath for the life of me; I suddenly felt claustrophobic. I could not quite grasp others’ conversations around me, and to top it all off, the world around me seemed to be falling apart. I was only ten years old when I experienced my first panic attack. As a young child, your only concern is controlling and deciding which toys you want to play with after school and convincing your parents to buy you a Happy Meal. On the other hand, my concern was worrying if I would ever feel that loss of control ever again. Unfortunately, I did plenty of times. Now that I am older and experiencing anxiety, I decided to do something about how I dealt with it. I now have a counselor who I confide in that helps me daily. I started becoming more active, whether that is riding my bike or going for a run in the afternoon. I started doing simple tasks such as setting goals for myself and creating a routine that helps me balance my sanity and school work as well. I took charge and focused on the positive things I could control, which was doing the best I could to get better. After graduating and obtaining my degree in Human Development and Family Studies, my ultimate goal is to create a facility for young adolescents who struggle with their mental health to know that they are not alone. Creating this facility is important because I want children to have a support system, a connection with other young people to know that they are not alone during these hard times. Throughout this facility, I want children to connect with others who are experiencing similar situations. A safe space should truly be a safe space, so I want these children to be comfortable with opening up to myself and their peers. This business is important for me to accomplish because I think there needs to be more opportunities revolving around mental health.

“Courage doesn’t always roar. Sometimes courage is the quiet voice at the end of the day saying ‘I will try again tomorrow’.” - Mary Radmacher In life, sometimes, we always expect to win. We hope to only experience the good things in life, disregarding the bad, pretending as if our lives are perfect; however, sometimes, our lives are far from perfect. Mary Radmacher’s quote is meaningful to me because it is something my therapist always reminds me of. While experiencing anxiety, it can be difficult to push past those more challenging days while still remaining positive. After a tough day, I can recall days when I felt fragile and tired, wanting to give up; but this quote reminded me that I have courage. Having courage is not always about thrilling adventures. It takes courage to push through our most challenging days because many people are unable to do so. Last summer, I experienced severe panic attacks. My panic attacks had gotten so intense that I began to have multiple a day. At the end of each day, I had to remind myself that tomorrow will be a new day and I can try again tomorrow, and I did, simply try again.

The pandemic created an uncomfortable growth in my life. It allowed me to come out of my comfort zone more and complete things that I never imagined myself doing. My anxiety and depression hit a rocky road throughout the beginning of the pandemic; however, I was able to push through it and ask for help. With the help of therapy, I know I am much stronger than I think I am. I know the difference between the things I can control and the things I cannot control. I faced my anxiety head-on when I decided to go zip lining, and I did not have a panic attack before or afterward; I was so proud of myself. I also created a book library for students in my community. Along with the book library, I created my own candle business, and for the month of May, I plan to donate the proceeds in honor of Mental Health Awareness month. I know every day is not always going to be a good day; however, I always want to try my best no matter what it takes.

The walls felt as if they were closing in on me. I could not catch my breath for the life of me; I suddenly felt claustrophobic. I could not quite grasp others’ conversations around me, and to top it all off, the world around me seemed to be falling apart. I was only ten years old when I experienced my first panic attack, a situation I could not seem to control. As a young child, your only concern is controlling and deciding which toys you want to play with after school and convincing your parents to buy you a Happy Meal. On the other hand, my concern was worrying if I would ever feel that loss of control ever again. ​I was diagnosed with Generalized Anxiety Disorder when I was only twelve years old. It was tough not knowing what was going on with me, let alone finding the right help. I went from psychiatrist to psychiatrist and therapist to therapist, which surprisingly I recently discovered the one whom I like the most and has helped me through this pandemic. I have been through the whole process. The tears, the anxiety homework, the panic attacks, finding coping skills, and so on. It takes a strong and well-rounded person to help someone get through each task that I have gone through. I am beyond passionate about having a career in the mental health field because I know what it is like to feel tired, scared to move because any sudden thought could trigger a panic attack. I want to help the next person because no one should have to experience that feeling alone. After graduating from Winthrop University, I plan to pursue the career of either Social Work or a Child Counselor, maybe even both. My experience has encouraged me to help others get through similar experiences that I have gone through. My end goal is to open a facility for young adolescents revolving around their mental health. Throughout this facility, I want them to receive the help they need through counseling and other therapeutic services. Most importantly, I want them to make connections and friendships with others who are experiencing similar things throughout the facility. I must create this facility because I know what it is like to be young and not know what is going on with your body. I wish I were able to have friends who knew exactly what I was experiencing. Though I may not have experienced positive friendships growing up with my anxiety, I want different for the children around me. I refuse to give up; no matter the circumstances, I will help create better environments and end the stigma towards mental health.

This journey has not been easy; if I keep going at what I want in life, it definitely will not get any easier, but the end goal will be worth it. My name is NyAsia. I am a freshman attending Winthrop University, majoring in Human Development and Family Studies. With this major, I plan on pursuing the career of either a Child Counselor or Social Worker, maybe both. My end goal is only to help others, and with the right support system, I know I can achieve anything I set in my mind. In my wildest dream, I see myself opening a facility for children and young adults revolving around their mental health. In this facility, I want them to receive the assistance they need and create friends who struggle with similar situations. I think it is essential to make connections with others to realize that they are not alone. I want it to be similar to a support group, providing the necessary tools to get through the rough patch in life they are experiencing. Our world needs to end the stigma towards mental health because the reality is, our mental health is just as important as our physical health. By creating this facility, I want others to understand that it is okay not to be okay. It is okay to ask for help when you need it. Asking for help is the only way to improve. Those who enjoy working around mental health are blessings; they have a real gift. It takes a person with the courage to work in this career field, knowing how tough it may be. Some decide to work in the mental health field simply because they are interested and want to help; others have a story behind it. My story is something that has had a significant impact on my life. I often think about how my life would be if I were not diagnosed with this disorder; till my therapist reminds me that I am not my anxiety, it is only a part of my life in this moment. One day, I hope one day that I can encourage someone and remind them that this is just a rough day, not a rough life.

It can be hard to find your purpose in this world. There are so many different options and choices around you that you wonder, "Which one is the best for me?". My name is NyAsia. I am currently a freshman attending Winthrop University, majoring in Human Development and Family Studies. My goal is to graduate from college and pursue the career choices of either a Social Worker or a Child Counselor, maybe both. I plan to work hard and dedicate myself to the things I love to achieve this goal. After obtaining my degree, my goal is to go back to school for my Masters's. My end goal is to open my own facility to help children with their mental health. Throughout this facility, I want children to receive the care for their mental health and be around other children who experience similar situations, so they know that they are not alone, something I wish I could have experienced growing up. Creating this facility is how I plan on giving back to others and my community. There should be more support areas for children struggling with their mental health, and I want to be apart of the involvement. Knowing that I control what I do excites me the most about this world. It amazes me how even the littlest things can help improve someone’s life if we try. We are not in this world for a long time; therefore, I believe it is crucial to impact those around you. You only get this life once; it is important to make the best of it. I want to make the best of mine by helping others and creating opportunities that I wish I would have had growing up with anxiety. It may not be easy on the road to my success; however, I refuse to give up!

All of my life all I have every wanted was to give back, and I am happily doing just that. Throughout my four years of high school, I have been an active member of my school’s Student Council as well as HOSA, Health Occupations Students of America. Being apart of these organizations has been an amazing volunteer opportunity. When joining new volunteer groups, I am currently excited about joining a volunteer group for my local mental health clinic. Whether participating at food banks, giving at blood drives, or even walking at runs and marathons, I have enjoyed playing my role in giving back to the community, not only to help others but also for my mental well-being. Not only did I meet new people, but I have been able to give back to my community. After graduating and obtaining my degree, my ultimate goal is to create a facility for young adolescents who struggle with their mental health to know that they are not alone. Throughout this facility, I want children to be about to connect with others who are experiencing similar things they are going through. A safe space should truly be a safe space, so I want these children to be comfortable with opening up to myself and their peers. This scholarship would impact me by helping pay for my education. Recieving this scholarship will benefit me by helping to further my education by having the financial resources. Applying for scholarships can be discouraging because your unsure if your going to recieve the funding. However, I know if I do by best everything will fall into place.

Starting a business takes courage. Creating a business of your own consist of dedication and hard work to make sure every little detail is perfect. I have always wanted to shine my light into this world; however I was always unsure of how I would do such. To be an entrepreneur, to me, it is not only about being a person who creates and operates their own businesses. It is about telling why you created this business and how you are able to show yourself through your business. I have struggled with anxiety since I was twelve years old. As I have gotten older, it has been a challenge finding hobbies to take my mind off of daily life stresses; however, I have recently found one that I love. One of my goals is to create my own candle line. Candles are what have gotten me through this pandemic. I love how there are fragrances that can change your entire mood and relieve the day's stresses. I want to make candles because they have helped me mentally, and candles smell good in general! To be a small business owner, I want to do something that motivates me to not only do better but feel better. Creating my candle line is something that not only can keep me busy during my times of stress but also help others who need a mental break as well. If I could start any other business without capital constraints, my business would be a safe space. After graduating and obtaining my degree, my ultimate goal is to create a facility for young adolescents who struggle with their mental health to know that they are not alone. Creating this facility is important because I want children to have a support system, a connection with other young people to know that they are not alone during these hard times. Throughout this facility, I want children to be about to connect with others who are experiencing similar things they are going through. A safe space should truly be a safe space, so I want these children to be comfortable with opening up to myself and their peers. When creating my future business, I want it to be a fun yet beneficial therapeutic experience. Children should still be able to learn to express themselves while still being able to interact with others. I want to use this group experience to show them that it is okay not to be okay. There are so many other children going through similar things, so instead of holding it in, let us figure out coping skills to get through this rough patch. If I could start any business, these two ideas are both at the top of my list.

Starting a business takes courage. Creating a business of your own consist of dedication and hard work to make sure every little detail is perfect. To start a business can be exciting yet stressful because the concern of finances always lingers. If I could start any business without capital constraints, my business would be a safe space. After graduating and obtaining my degree, my ultimate goal is to create a facility for young adolescents who struggle with their mental health to know that they are not alone. I was diagnosed with Generalized Anxiety Disorder when I was only twelve years old. It was tough not knowing what was going on with me, let alone finding the right help. Creating this facility is important because I want children to have a support system, a connection with other young people to know that they are not alone during these hard times. Throughout this facility, I want children to be about to connect with others who are experiencing similar things they are going through. A safe space should truly be a safe space, so I want these children to be comfortable with opening up to myself and their peers. This business is important for me to accomplish because I think there need to be more opportunities revolving around mental health. When going to therapy, it can become nerve-wrecking to meet a new therapist. It can be even harder on a child who has trouble opening up to someone. As a child growing up with anxiety, it was tough not knowing how to manage it, let alone finding the right therapist for me. My experience motivates me because I want to help children who have and are going through what I have. Each child going through this needs the right support system to help get them through, and I aspire to be that support system. Knowing that I will be apart of a child’s support system motivates me to get through college and earn my degree. When creating my future business, I want it to be a fun yet beneficial therapeutic experience. Children should still be able to learn to express themselves while still being able to interact with others. I want to use this group experience to show them that it is okay not to be okay. There are so many other children going through similar things, so instead of holding it in, let us figure out coping skills to get through this rough patch. To consider myself successful would mean to have opened this center for children and have it thriving for future generations. This accomplishment is important to me because I wish I would have been able to connect with others who were experiencing similar things when I was younger. The idea of therapy can be scary, especially for young children. I want my future business to help to them because they know they can get better, all while seeing that that are not alone. If I could start a business without any capital constraints, this would be number one on my list.

I knew I did not want anyone else to go through what I was going through. As a young child, I always knew I wanted to help others; however, I did not know how. My own experience is what inspired me to pursue a career in helping others. ​​I was diagnosed with Generalized Anxiety Disorder when I was only twelve years old. It was tough not knowing what was going on with me, let alone finding the right help. I went from therapist to therapist, which surprisingly I recently discovered the one whom I like the most and has helped me through this pandemic. It takes a strong and well-rounded person to help someone get through each task that I have gone through. I am passionate about having a career in the mental health field because I know what it is like to feel tired, scared to move because any sudden thought could trigger a panic attack. I want to help the next person because no one should have to experience that feeling alone. My experience inspires me because I know I can impact each child’s life by helping them get through their current obstacles in life. Being the person a child looks forward to seeing after a tough day is an emotion that I cannot wait to feel. In the therapy aspect, many children do not have the courage to talk to a stranger, let alone express their feelings at all. I was once that child, and I strive to let the next child know that it is okay not to be okay. My end goal is to create a facility for children who struggle with mental health. I want children to be able to have the resources, that I did not have growing up; to interact with children who are experiencing similar situations. I know with hard work and dedication I can achieve this goal and help change a child’s life.

The walls felt as if they were closing in on me. I could not catch my breath for the life of me; I suddenly felt claustrophobic. I could not quite grasp others’ conversations around me, and to top it all off, the world around me seemed to be falling apart. I was only ten years old when I experienced my first panic attack, a situation I could not seem to control. As a young child, your only concern is controlling and deciding which toys you want to play with after school and convincing your parents to buy you a Happy Meal. On the other hand, my concern was worrying if I would ever feel that loss of control ever again. ​​I was diagnosed with Generalized Anxiety Disorder when I was only twelve years old. It was tough not knowing what was going on with me, let alone finding the right help. I went from psychiatrist to psychiatrist and therapist to therapist, which surprisingly I recently discovered the one whom I like the most and has helped me through this pandemic. I have been through the whole process. The tears, the anxiety homework assignments, the panic attacks, finding coping skills, and so on. As I have gotten older, from my experiences, I have learned that I am not the only person who suffers from anxiety. Most importantly I had to understand that no ones life is easy. We all have challenges in life; we can either sit there and deal with them or decide to face them head on. To overcome fear, you have to face it. I am afraid of not knowing the outcome of many situations. Growing up, it is the biggest fear of mine. Part of growing up means learning how to do life skills on your own. As someone who struggles with mental health, I have had to realize many things, including the world's ways. In this world, unless you speak up for something, you will never receive the things in life that you want. Ending the stigma towards mental health is essential to me because more people suffer from mental health-related issues than any other illness. We all are going through phases in our lives, yet some lack the courage to tell their story. I am grateful that I have been able to come out of my shell and tell my story. My anxiety and depression is a touchy topic for me. I love sharing my story; however, some people do not understand what it feels like to experience this situation; therefore, they do not know the right things to say. My family knows me like the back of my hand. I am beyond grateful that I have a strong support system that can help identify my triggers and cope with them. Some days are harder than others. However, I am so blessed to have a family who understands that I just need a break from the world some days. From this past year, I have learned that it is okay not to be okay. We all have troubles throughout our lives, but it is about how we get through these trials. I learned that I am not the only person going through this. Yes, some days may be more challenging than others, but you have to give yourself a break. I refuse to let my anxiety and depression weigh me down when I know I can show my full potential. Looking forward, I plan to take it day by day because it is just a bad day, not a bad life.