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Razan Khalil

1x

Finalist

General information

Hobbies & Interests

  • Acting And Theater
  • African American Studies
  • Anatomy
  • Animals
  • Animation
  • Anime
  • Arabic
  • Archaeology
  • Astrology
  • Astronomy
  • Reading
  • Biology
  • Calisthenics
  • Gaming
  • Gender Studies
  • Travel And Tourism
  • Volunteering
  • Community Service And Volunteering

Reading

  • Academic
  • Adult Fiction
  • Adventure
  • Classics
  • Fantasy
  • Folk Tales
  • Folklore
  • Horror

I read books multiple times a week.

Bio

Razan is a driven and goal-oriented student currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Psychology at the University of Richmond. Despite coming from a low-income socioeconomic background and being a first-generation student, Razan has excelled academically and is on a full-ride scholarship. They work five jobs to support themselves and their emotional support animal, Opal, while also being fully independent. Razan is passionate about mental health, environmental justice, healthcare, and activism. They plan on using the skills attained from their undergraduate career to aid them in graduate school as well as when joining future organizations surrounded around social justice such as NAACP, VSPN, and AAAN to better their community and the lives of others. They aspire to be a psychologist specializing in therapy and counseling and hope to one day in their career provide free mental health services to people in Palestine who are directly affected by the Israeli occupation and apartheid. In addition to their academic pursuits, Razan is also very active in advocacy work and has a wide range of hobbies, including reading, biking, traveling, extreme sports, cooking, exploring new places, crocheting, calligraphy, powerlifting, knitting, bird watching, mentoring, and educating others on the injustices marginalized groups around the world face. They have also held various professional positions such as Bi/Pan+ Affinity Group Facilitator, Spider FLI Mentor, Teaching Assistant Intern, Resident Assistant, and Oral History Fellow.

Education

University of Richmond

Bachelor's degree program

2019 – 2023

Majors:
  • Psychology, General

Miscellaneous

Desired degree level:
Doctoral degree program (PhD, MD, JD, etc.)
Graduate schools of interest:
Virginia Commonwealth University, University of Massachusetts-Amherst, Harvard College, New York University
Medical school interest:
No

Career

  • Bi and pan+ facilitator

    organizational development · University of Richmond

    Jan 2022 – Jan 2023

  • President

    Civic & Social Organization · Students for Justice in Palestine

    Jan 2022 – Jan 2023

  • Scholar

    Education · Chicago scholars

    Jan 2018 – Present

  • Server

    Food & Beverages · University of Richmond

    Jan 2022 – Present

  • Transcriptionist

    data entry · University of Richmond

    Jan 2022 – Present

  • Mentor

    Education · University of Richmond

    Jan 2021 – Present

  • Resident Assistant

    Human Resources · University of Richmond

    Jan 2021 – Jan 2022

  • Research fellow

    Research · University of Richmond

    Jan 2021 – Jan 2021

  • Salesperson

    Retail · Cool Colors Gallery

    Jan 2021 – Present

  • Teaching Assistant

    Education · Faison

    Jan 2022 – Jan 2022

  • Fellow

    Civic & Social Organization · VSPN

    Jan 2021 – Jan 2021

  • Director of Environmental Racism and Board of Director

    Environmental Services · Ecological Justice Initiative

    Jan 2021 – Jan 2021

  • Cook

    premium cook · Cuellar at the university of Richmond

    Jan 2019 – Jan 2021

  • Salesperson

    Retail · Spider shop at the University of Richmond

    Jan 2019 – Jan 2019

  • Youth Leader

    youth leader · Arab American Action Network

    Jan 2016 – Jan 2019

  • Tutor and educator

    tutor · Arab American Action Network

    Jan 2016 – Jan 2019

  • Crew member

    Food & Beverages · Chipotle

    Jan 2016 – Jan 2017

Miscellaneous

Dream career field:
Mental Health Care
Has nursing license:
No

Future Interests

  • Advocacy
  • Politics
  • Volunteering
  • Philanthropy
Cat Zingano Overcoming Loss Scholarship
The passing of my father, who I lost to suicide this past semester, has left a void in my life that I never thought possible. It was an unexpected shock and a heartbreak that I never imagined I would have to endure. My father was always there for me, a constant source of support and guidance, and the thought of life without him was unfathomable. The pain of losing him was overwhelming and I felt lost, alone, and confused. I couldn't comprehend why he would make the decision to take his own life, and I felt guilty for not being able to do anything to save him. The experience of losing my father has had a profound impact on my life. It has opened my eyes to the importance of mental health and the effect it can have on an individual. I came to realize that my father must have been going through a great deal of pain and suffering that he couldn't express to us. This loss has made me more compassionate and understanding towards others going through similar struggles. In an effort to cope with my loss and channel my grief into something positive, I began to volunteer and donate to local mental health support groups. I wanted to raise awareness about mental health and ensure that those going through the same struggles as my father have access to the support they need. This has helped me to find purpose and meaning in my loss and has given me a sense of fulfillment. The passing of my father has also caused me to focus on what truly matters in life. I have come to understand that life is fragile and can change at any moment. This has made me appreciate the time I have with my loved ones and to live in the present. It has also made me determined to fight for mental health awareness and support for those who are struggling. Through this difficult experience, I have learned that grief is a journey and there is no right or wrong way to process it. I have also come to understand that it is important to talk about our feelings and seek help when needed. The loss of my father has taught me valuable lessons about life, love and the importance of mental health. It has also made me appreciate the time I have with my loved ones and to fight for what matters most.
Al-Haj Abdallah R Abdallah Muslim Scholarship
Allahu akbar"! These are words that have been so tragically and falsely associated with acts of terror and violence. But in reality, they simply mean "God is great" and are a common expression of gratitude and faith among Muslims. As a Muslim student pursuing higher education, it is an honor to apply for this scholarship and to reflect on the legacy of Al-Haj Abdallah Rashid Abdallah, who undoubtedly valued the importance of education and intellectual curiosity in one's life. As a Muslim, my connection to my faith is an integral part of my identity. My understanding of Islam has evolved over time and has given me a sense of guidance, purpose, and a deeper understanding of the world around me. I believe that the values and principles of Islam, such as peace, justice, and compassion, align with my aspirations to become a clinical psychologist. My field of study is psychology, and my ultimate goal is to work with individuals from diverse backgrounds who are struggling with mental health issues. My inspiration for this career comes from my own experiences growing up in a multicultural community, where I witnessed firsthand the impact that cultural and socio-economic factors can have on one's mental well-being. Islam teaches the importance of community and social justice, which aligns with my desire to help create a more just and equitable society through my work as a psychologist. The principle of Zakat (charity) is a reminder of the duty to help those in need, which is something I strive to incorporate into my work by providing support and guidance to those who are struggling. Additionally, Islam emphasizes the importance of personal growth and self-improvement, which I believe is crucial for effective therapy. The Five Pillars of Islam, including prayer and fasting, serve as a constant reminder to stay grounded in my faith and strive to be a better person. Higher education is crucial for achieving my career goals, as it will provide me with the knowledge, skills, and practical experience necessary to be an effective therapist. University has also opened up a world of intellectual curiosity and personal growth for me, allowing me to explore different perspectives and ways of thinking. I strive to integrate my Islamic values and principles into my daily life and my career, including regularly performing my prayers, engaging in acts of charity, and continually seeking knowledge and understanding of Islam. Through my work as a clinical psychologist, I hope to make a positive impact on the lives of others, guided by the principles of my faith.
Jerome D. Carr Memorial Scholarship for Overcoming Adversity
The indelible image of my father scavenging for expired food in a dumpster remains etched in my mind, a poignant reminder of the dire economic circumstances that my family and I have long endured. Born into a household with a meagre $200 monthly food stamp budget and beset by a plethora of financial burdens, my father was often forced to resort to such desperate measures to provide for his family of six. The exacerbation of our struggles, brought about by the reduction of government aid and the increase of special bill payments, served as a stark reminder of the systemic injustices that marginalized communities like ours continue to face. My experiences with mental health and the struggles of my family have been instrumental in shaping my personal growth and social consciousness. As someone who has grappled with ADHD and anxiety/depression, I possess a nuanced understanding of the intricacies of executive functioning and the ways in which mental health can impact one's ability to navigate the world. This has fueled my passion for addressing issues of social justice and equity within my community. My upbringing, characterized by a dearth of knowledge about the Israeli apartheid and the experiences of my parents as refugees, led to a profound awakening during my freshman year of college. This realization served as a catalyst for my unwavering commitment to advocating for the rights of Palestinian people. Through my role as the President of the Students for Justice in Palestine (SJP) UR chapter, I have honed my leadership skills and effectively directed and managed club officials and operations. Additionally, my experiences as a VSPN Fellow with the Virginia Student Power Network have allowed me to collaborate with a diverse coalition of young activists promoting social and racial justice on campuses and in communities. I have also developed an abundance of skills, including proficiency in SPSS, basic proficiency in Microsoft word and Excel, and language skills in Arabic and Spanish. Furthermore, I have created a website "Serene Palestine," which serves as a platform to raise awareness about mental health disorders and the impact of the Israeli occupation on the mental well-being of Palestinians. As I look towards the future, I am resolved to continue utilizing my skills and experiences to address issues of social justice and equity, with a particular focus on the rights of Palestinian people and the provision of mental health services to marginalized communities
Goobie-Ramlal Education Scholarship
As a first-generation college-bound student of an immigrant family, I have come to intimately understand the plethora of challenges that immigrants face when starting their lives in a new country. From language barriers to a lack of connections to financial difficulties, the path to higher education is often fraught with obstacles and adversity. However, I have also come to appreciate the immense sacrifices and hard work of my family, who have toiled tirelessly to provide a better life for future generations. My father, who had to resort to the ignominy of dumpster diving in order to feed his family of six, is a testament to the resilience and determination of immigrants. Despite the myriad of difficulties we faced, including the reduction of government aid and the increase of special bill payments, my family never lost sight of the importance of education. As I embark on my journey to obtain a Bachelor of Science in Psychology at the University of Richmond, I am deeply cognizant of the privilege and responsibility that comes with being one of the first in my family to complete a college degree. I am determined to make a positive impact on the world through my education and experiences. In my role as a Bi/Pan+ Affinity Group Facilitator and Spider FLI Mentor at the Student Center for Equity and Inclusion, I have strived to create a supportive and brave space for individuals who wish to explore their bi/pan+ identities and experiences. I have facilitated discussions surrounding identity, sexuality, inclusion, and belonging, and have assisted a cohort of first-gen and/or low-income students in navigating college life and academics. As a Teaching Assistant Intern at The Faison Center, I received comprehensive training related to autism, disabilities, and applied behavioral analysis, and taught children ages 3-7 years who were diagnosed with autism or behavioral disorders. I was able to collect and record data daily on their behavior, performance on daily programs, and overall progress over a course of 7 months. In my role as a Resident Assistant at Westhampton College Residence Life, I have been committed to building and maintaining an inclusive, safe, and welcoming environment for residents of all years. I have managed and planned 4 events per semester to promote inclusion and provide educational, recreational, and professional programs. Additionally, I have upheld university policies, acted as an advisor and mentor, and referred to university resources when applicable. As an Oral History Fellow at the Race and Racism Project, I researched and analyzed university-centered archives to better understand the complex racial history at the University of Richmond and the greater Richmond area. I transcribed audio and conducted professional interviews with past alumni and current students, with a variety of dialects, on their experiences of race and racism at the university. I presented my findings at the A&S Spring Symposium in 2022. Lastly, as a VSPN Fellow at the Virginia Student Power Network, I have collaborated with a diverse coalition of young activists promoting social and racial justice on campuses and in communities. I have gained valuable knowledge and skills that will aid me in my quest to make a positive impact on the world through my education and experiences. In conclusion, I am honored to be a recipient of this scholarship, which seeks to offer recognition and relief to college-bound students who stand on the shoulders of their hardworking immigrant families. I am determined to use my education and experiences to create a more just and equitable society, and to make a positive impact on the world
Esteemed Project Scholarship
Growing up in a low-income household, I witnessed firsthand the struggles of food insecurity and the detrimental effects it can have on individuals and families. My dad, who was the sole provider for our family of six, often resorted to dumpster diving to supplement our monthly $200 food stamp budget. The worst of our situation came when our government aid was reduced, leaving us struggling to make ends meet. This experience instilled in me a deep understanding of the importance of food security and the need for sustainable solutions to address this issue. As a Psychology major at the University of Richmond, I have been able to apply my knowledge and passion for addressing social issues towards my studies and extracurricular activities. In Dr. Laura Knouse’s lab, I have presented findings on the comorbidity of ADHD and anxiety/depression and how it affects executive functioning. Additionally, I have been involved in various organizations and initiatives that strive to promote equity and inclusion on campus, such as the Student Center for Equity and Inclusion, The Faison Center, and the Race and Racism Project. One of my most significant contributions to addressing food insecurity has been through my leadership role as the President of the Students for Justice in Palestine (SJP) UR chapter. Through SJP, I have been able to raise awareness about the Israeli occupation of Palestine and its impact on Palestinian food security. I have organized events that highlight the ways in which the occupation affects access to food, such as the impact of Israeli settlements on Palestinian farmland and the destruction of Palestinian agricultural infrastructure. Additionally, I have worked with local organizations to provide aid and resources to Palestinian families in need. Moving forward, I am determined to make a positive impact on the world through my career. After graduation, I plan to pursue a graduate degree in Public Health with a focus on community-based solutions to food insecurity. I am particularly interested in implementing sustainable and locally-driven solutions that address the root causes of food insecurity, such as poverty and lack of access to resources. I believe that by addressing these underlying issues, we can create long-term and sustainable change for communities in need. Furthermore, I intend to continue my work in promoting social justice and equity through my career. I am committed to working with marginalized communities and fighting against systems of oppression that contribute to food insecurity and other issues. I believe that by utilizing my education, skills, and experiences, I can make a meaningful and lasting impact on the world. In conclusion, my experiences growing up in a low-income household and my dedication to addressing social issues have led me to my current passion for addressing food insecurity. Through my studies, extracurricular activities, and leadership roles, I have gained the knowledge and skills necessary to make a positive impact on the world through my career. I am determined to continue my work in promoting social justice and equity, and to create sustainable solutions to address food insecurity and other issues facing marginalized communities
Walking In Authority International Ministry Scholarship
His body disappeared. All that was left were his legs hanging on the edge. He emerged with several packages of expired food. My fingers blistered as he handed me each package. My family of six clung to a monthly $200 dollar food stamp budget for years. But almost always we’d surpass that limit. Just another problem for our pile of bills. As a result, my dad would be reduced to dumpster diving, an unfortunate source of food. The worst of our situation came when our government aid was reduced. Our welfare and medical benefits diminished, and special bill payments, like CEDA, increased. This experience has motivated me to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Psychology at the University of Richmond, where I have a GPA of 3.47 and have presented findings on the comorbidity of ADHD and anxiety/depression in Dr. Laura Knouse's lab. My goal is to use my knowledge and experience to support and empower individuals and families facing similar struggles. Currently, I am actively involved in various organizations on campus. I am a Bi/Pan+ Affinity Group Facilitator and Spider FLI Mentor at the University of Richmond's Student Center for Equity and Inclusion, where I develop a supportive and brave space for people who want to explore bi/pan+ identities and experiences. I am also a Teaching Assistant Intern at The Faison Center, where I teach children with autism and behavioral disorders. Additionally, I am a Resident Assistant, Oral History Fellow, and VSPN Fellow at the University of Richmond. One of my greatest contributions to my community has been founding and serving as the President of the Students for Justice in Palestine (SJP) chapter at the University of Richmond. Through this organization, I have been able to collaborate with a diverse coalition of young activists and work towards promoting social and racial justice on campus and in the community. I have learned how to build communities that serve the people and challenge oppressive systems. This experience has not only made an impact on my community but it has also made a huge impact on me. It has taught me how to be an effective leader and how to use my voice for the greater good. This scholarship would make a significant difference in my pursuit of higher education by alleviating some of the financial burden on my family and allowing me to focus on my studies and community contributions. It would also provide me with the necessary resources to continue making a positive impact in my community and beyond. In conclusion, my experiences growing up and my involvement in various organizations on campus have shaped my passion for supporting and empowering individuals and families facing similar struggles. I believe that with the help of this scholarship, I will be able to achieve my academic and professional goals and continue making a positive impact in my community.
Valiyah Young Scholarship
His body disappeared. All that was left were his legs hanging on the edge. He emerged with several packages of expired food. My fingers blistered as he handed me each package. My family of six clung to a monthly $200 dollar food stamp budget for years. But almost always we’d surpass that limit. Just another problem for our pile of bills. As a result, my dad would be reduced to dumpster diving, an unfortunate source of food. The worst of our situation came when our government aid was reduced. Our welfare and medical benefits diminished, and special bill payments, like CEDA, increased. This experience has motivated me to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Psychology at the University of Richmond, where I have a GPA of 3.47 and have presented findings on the comorbidity of ADHD and anxiety/depression in Dr. Laura Knouse's lab. My goal is to use my knowledge and experience to support and empower individuals and families facing similar struggles. Currently, I am actively involved in various organizations on campus. I am a Bi/Pan+ Affinity Group Facilitator and Spider FLI Mentor at the University of Richmond's Student Center for Equity and Inclusion, where I develop a supportive and brave space for people who want to explore bi/pan+ identities and experiences. I am also a Teaching Assistant Intern at The Faison Center, where I teach children with autism and behavioral disorders. Additionally, I am a Resident Assistant, Oral History Fellow, and VSPN Fellow at the University of Richmond. One of my greatest contributions to my community has been founding and serving as the President of the Students for Justice in Palestine (SJP) chapter at the University of Richmond. Through this organization, I have been able to collaborate with a diverse coalition of young activists and work towards promoting social and racial justice on campus and in the community. I have learned how to build communities that serve the people and challenge oppressive systems. This experience has not only made an impact on my community but it has also made a huge impact on me. It has taught me how to be an effective leader and how to use my voice for the greater good. This scholarship would make a significant difference in my pursuit of higher education by alleviating some of the financial burden on my family and allowing me to focus on my studies and community contributions. It would also provide me with the necessary resources to continue making a positive impact in my community and beyond. In conclusion, my experiences growing up and my involvement in various organizations on campus have shaped my passion for supporting and empowering individuals and families facing similar struggles. I believe that with the help of this scholarship, I will be able to achieve my academic and professional goals and continue making a positive impact in my community.
Mikey Taylor Memorial Scholarship
My experiences with mental health have been a catalyst for personal growth and the cultivation of a keen sense of social consciousness. As someone who has struggled with ADHD and anxiety/depression, I have a deep understanding of the intricacies of executive functioning and the ways in which mental health can impact an individual's ability to navigate the world. This knowledge has propelled my interest in addressing issues of social justice and equity within my community. My upbringing, in which my parents never spoke about Palestine and their own experiences of being expelled from their homes, led to a lack of knowledge about the Israeli apartheid until my freshman year of college. This realization served as a catalyst for my passion for addressing issues related to Palestine and the rights of Palestinian people. One of my most impactful experiences has been my role as the President of the Students for Justice in Palestine (SJP) UR Chapter. This position has allowed me to hone my leadership skills and effectively direct and manage club officials and operations. I have been able to maintain the confidentiality of sensitive information related to club members, communicate with club members, public, and external organizations in a professional and pleasant manner. Additionally, I have been able to delegate long-term projects that require time and devotion, such as working with Dr. Angela Davis to virtually come to UR to speak on the intersection of the struggle between Black and Palestinian people, all while overseeing a budget of $1,500 for programming and advertising. Furthermore, my experiences as a VSPN Fellow with the Virginia Student Power Network have allowed me to collaborate with a diverse coalition of young activists promoting social and racial justice on campuses and in communities. I have learned valuable information on how to build communities that serve the people and challenge oppressive systems. Through the help and knowledge of VSPN, I was able to create a Students for Justice in Palestine chapter at UR. Overall, my experiences have allowed me to develop a plethora of skills, including technology skills such as proficiency in SPSS, basic proficiency in Microsoft word and Excel, and language skills in Arabic and Spanish. I have also developed research skills such as transcription and lab work such as pipetting, data collection, and the use of equipment. I created a website called "Serene Palestine," which is dedicated to raising awareness about mental health disorders and how they are portrayed within the Palestinian population. The website provides a wide range of resources, including articles, videos, and images, to inform and educate visitors about mental health disorders and the impact that the Israeli occupation has on the mental well-being of Palestinians. One of the key goals of the website is to raise awareness about the lack of mental health services available to Palestinians living in occupied territories and to spread solidarity for the ongoing struggle for Palestinian self-determination. The website also includes a link to a mental health advocacy group based in Ramallah, Palestine, called mhGAP, which provides resources and support for individuals and families affected by mental health disorders. In the future, I plan to continue to use these skills and experiences to address issues of social justice and equity within my community, particularly related to Palestine and the rights of the Palestinian people. I will work to raise awareness and promote understanding about the Israeli apartheid and the struggle of Palestinian people for self-determination and also work towards creating a more inclusive and just society.
Ethel Hayes Destigmatization of Mental Health Scholarship
My experiences with mental health have been one of the key starters for my personal growth and the cultivation of a keen sense of social consciousness. As someone who has struggled with ADHD and anxiety/depression, I have a deep understanding of the intricacies of executive functioning and the ways in which mental health can impact an individual's ability to navigate the world. This knowledge has propelled my interest in addressing issues of social justice and equity within my community. My upbringing, in which my parents never spoke about Palestine and their own experiences of being expelled from their homes, led to a lack of knowledge about the Israeli apartheid until my freshman year of college. This realization served as a catalyst for my passion for addressing issues related to Palestine and the rights of Palestinian people. One of my most impactful experiences has been my role as the President of the Students for Justice in Palestine (SJP) UR Chapter. This position has allowed me to hone my leadership skills and effectively direct and manage club officials and operations. I have been able to maintain the confidentiality of sensitive information related to club members, communicate with club members, public, and external organizations in a professional and pleasant manner. Additionally, I have been able to delegate long-term projects that require time and devotion, such as working with Dr. Angela Davis to virtually come to UR to speak on the intersection of the struggle between Black and Palestinian people, all while overseeing a budget of $1,500 for programming and advertising. Furthermore, my experiences as a VSPN Fellow with the Virginia Student Power Network have allowed me to collaborate with a diverse coalition of young activists promoting social and racial justice on campuses and in communities. I have learned valuable information on how to build communities that serve the people and challenge oppressive systems. Through the help and knowledge of VSPN, I was able to create a Students for Justice in Palestine chapter at UR. Overall, my experiences have allowed me to develop a plethora of skills, including technology skills such as proficiency in SPSS, basic proficiency in Microsoft word and Excel, and language skills in Arabic and Spanish. I have also developed research skills such as transcription and lab work such as pipetting, data collection, and the use of equipment. I created a website called "Serene Palestine," which is dedicated to raising awareness about mental health disorders and how they are portrayed within the Palestinian population. The website provides a wide range of resources, including articles, videos, and images, to inform and educate visitors about mental health disorders and the impact that the Israeli occupation has on the mental well-being of Palestinians. One of the key goals of the website is to raise awareness about the lack of mental health services available to Palestinians living in occupied territories and to spread solidarity for the ongoing struggle for Palestinian self-determination. The website also includes a link to a mental health advocacy group based in Ramallah, Palestine, called mhGAP, which provides resources and support for individuals and families affected by mental health disorders. In the future, I plan to continue to use these skills and experiences to address issues of social justice and equity within my community, particularly related to Palestine and the rights of the Palestinian people. I will work to raise awareness and promote understanding about the Israeli apartheid and the struggle of Palestinian people for self-determination and also work towards creating a more inclusive and just society.
Appalachian Region Vocational Scholarship
My passion for psychology and healthcare can be traced back to my roots as a Palestinian American. Growing up, I saw firsthand the struggles that many Palestinians face in terms of access to healthcare and mental health services. This ultimately led me to pursue a career in psychology and nursing, with the goal of becoming a nurse practitioner specializing in therapy and psychiatry. Throughout my education and professional experiences, I have had the opportunity to work with diverse groups of people and gain a deeper understanding of the importance of inclusivity and equity in healthcare. As a Bi/Pan+ Affinity Group Facilitator and Spider FLI Mentor at the Student Center for Equity and Inclusion, I have developed a supportive and brave space for people to explore their identities and experiences. As a Teaching Assistant Intern at The Faison Center, I received comprehensive training related to autism, disabilities, and applied behavioral analysis and taught children who were diagnosed with autism or a behavioral disorder. I have also been actively involved in leadership roles and community organizations. As the President of the Students for Justice in Palestine (SJP) UR Chapter, I have been able to direct and manage club officials and operations, maintain confidentiality, and communicate with club members, public, and external organizations in a professional and pleasant manner. I also directed long term projects such as working with Dr. Angela Davis to virtually come to UR to speak on the intersection of struggle between Black and Palestinian people. In the future, I plan on making a difference through my career by providing free mental health services to the people of Palestine. I believe that access to healthcare and mental health services is a basic human right, and I am dedicated to making sure that everyone, regardless of their background, has access to the care they need. I also plan on utilizing my leadership skills and experiences to advocate for the Palestinian community and raise awareness about the importance of healthcare and mental health services in Palestine. Furthermore, my experiences as a Bi/Pan+ Affinity Group Facilitator, Spider FLI Mentor, and Resident Assistant, have made me realize the importance of creating inclusive and safe spaces for marginalized communities. In my future career, I plan on continuing to work towards creating inclusive and equitable healthcare spaces for marginalized communities. In conclusion, my passion for psychology and healthcare is rooted in my heritage and my desire to give back to my community. Through my education, professional experiences, and leadership roles, I have gained the knowledge, skills, and passion necessary to make a meaningful impact in the lives of those who need it most, specifically the Palestinian community. I am determined to work towards providing free mental health services to the people of Palestine and creating inclusive and equitable healthcare spaces for marginalized communities.
Elizabeth Schalk Memorial Scholarship
Bipolar disorder is a part of my everyday life and it affects me in many ways. I was diagnosed with bipolar I with mixed states when I was 19, and since then, my emotions have been unpredictable and intense. My family and friends have always described me as having an "unusually wide emotional range" and being "extreme" but it wasn't until my first episode of depression that I realized something was truly off. During that episode, I felt completely hollow and it persisted for weeks before suddenly lifting, as if it never even happened. But it wasn't long before I started feeling a different kind of extreme - a manic episode. My heart rate increased, my thoughts were racing and I couldn't sit still or sleep. I went five days sleeping only one or two hours a night, yet I didn't feel tired. I had all these ideas about what I wanted to do and I would just go for it, like spending hundreds of dollars on things I never use now, giving myself tattoos, and shaving my head. But then, just as suddenly as it started, it stopped. I could sleep and my heart rate calmed down. But that stability didn't last long. A few months later, I experienced my first mixed state, which is a nightmarish experience. I had so much energy, but it was angry energy. I was on edge about everything, destructive, aggressive, and angry. My suicidal thoughts were real and actionable. These different states repeated with feelings of normalcy in between. It took a year to get somewhere close to stable with medication and therapy. Now I'm on multiple meds and a lot more stable. But even now, when I get really stressed or big changes occur (or sometimes just out of nowhere), I start cycling again. My symptoms are less intense now, but the depression can still be temporarily debilitating, and I tend to do and say stupid and inappropriate things when I slip into hypomania. I'm freaked out by the thought that I'll never have a full grasp on stability and normalcy. I'm terrified by the idea that I depend so heavily on psychiatric meds to achieve what stability I have, and that if something happens that changes my access or my reaction to these drugs, I'll go off the rails again. But with the support of my family, friends and my girlfriend, who also struggles with depression and is understanding of my condition, I am able to live a fulfilling life. My close support system is made up of people who have had some mental health struggles, and I think that surrounds me with a group of people who are extraordinarily empathetic and patient
Miguel Mendez Social Justice Scholarship
As a student studying psychology with a focus on comorbidity of ADHD and anxiety/depression and its effects on executive functioning, I have a strong interest in addressing issues of social justice and equity within my community. My experiences growing up, where my parents never spoke about Palestine and how they were both expelled from their homes, and my lack of knowledge about the Israeli apartheid until my freshman year of college, has led me to become particularly passionate about addressing issues related to Palestine and the rights of Palestinian people. One of my most impactful experiences has been my role as the President of the Students for Justice in Palestine (SJP) UR Chapter. In this role, I have been able to direct and manage club officials and operations, maintain the confidentiality of all sensitive information related to club members, communicate with club members, public, and external organizations, in a professional and pleasant manner, and delegate long-term projects that require time and devotion such as working with Dr. Angela Davis to virtually come to UR to speak on the intersection of the struggle between Black and Palestinian people, all while overseeing a budget of $1,500 for programming and advertising. I have also been a VSPN Fellow with the Virginia Student Power Network, where I collaborated with a diverse coalition of young activists promoting social and racial justice on campuses and in communities, learned useful information to build communities that serve the people and challenge oppressive systems, and created Students for Justice in Palestine chapter at UR through the help and knowledge of VSPN. Overall, my experiences have allowed me to develop a variety of skills, including technology skills such as proficiency in SPSS, basic proficiency in Microsoft word and Excel, and language skills in Arabic and Spanish. I have also developed research skills such as transcription and lab work such as pipetting, data collection, and the use of equipment. I created a website called "Serene Palestine," which is dedicated to raising awareness about mental health disorders and how they are portrayed within the Palestinian population. The website provides a wide range of resources, including articles, videos, and images, to inform and educate visitors about mental health disorders and the impact that the Israeli occupation has on the mental well-being of Palestinians. One of the key goals of the website is to raise awareness about the lack of mental health services available to Palestinians living in occupied territories and to spread solidarity for the ongoing struggle for Palestinian self-determination. The website also includes a link to a mental health advocacy group based in Ramallah, Palestine, called mhGAP, which provides resources and support for individuals and families affected by mental health disorders. Overall, the website serves as an important resource for raising awareness about mental health disorders in the Palestinian population and the impact of the Israeli occupation on the mental well-being of Palestinians, while also promoting solidarity and support for the ongoing struggle for Palestinian self-determination. In the future, I plan to continue to use these skills and experiences to address issues of social justice and equity within my community, particularly related to Palestine and the rights of the Palestinian people. I will work to raise awareness and promote understanding about the Israeli apartheid and the struggle of Palestinian people for self-determination and also work towards creating a more inclusive and just society. https://anomalouspalestinian.wixsite.com/serenepalestine
Razan Khalil Student Profile | Bold.org