I am currently pursuing an undergraduate degree in Psychology with the intention to continue my education through both a Masters Degree as well as attain my PhD.. My passion lies in helping others who suffer from mental health issues both large and small. I have had personally been affected by untreated mental illness within my family, as well as the families of my friends, and believe with all of my heart that God has shown me that this is the path He has set for me. There are so many who suffer silently because they believe there is no hope and that their situation is beyond their control. My goal is to bring back to my community an understanding and compassionate heart that is equipped to help erase the stigma associated with depression, anxiety, and other treatable mental illnesses. Living in a small community it seems as though everyone knows everyone's personal business. Of course, that's not entirely true, but it is one reason that mental health treatment is not sought my many who could truly benefit from it. I plan to be a voice in my community that seeks to normalize mental health as being just as important as physical health. I am a firm believer that if someone is suffering from a mental health issue that requires medication as treatment that they should, by all means, take the prescribed medication. However, there are many times where medication is not enough or that it is not the appropriate treatment for the situation. Talk therapy and learning coping techniques are a vital part of the recovery process and beyond when you are talking about mental health. Just as Physical Therapy or Occupational Therapy are valid avenues to seek treatment, speaking with a licensed and properly educated therapist is as well. My parents have always been fantastic advocates for me in every aspect of my life. They have always been on my side no matter what the situation. Unfortunately, not every family has that same dynamic. I would like to change that in my hometown and beyond. My vision for that is to offer free classes or seminars to families on the realities of what mental health really means and how to spot early warning signs of trouble in their children and teens, as well as in their elderly family members. There are so many ways that individuals can be helped before they reach crisis level. I hope to be able to spread the knowledge of not only how to spot a potential issue, but how to foster a family environment that will help to ease the healing process for those being treated. I am spending my college years gaining all of the knowledge that I can on how to properly assist individuals, families, and communities on how to properly care for themselves and others when it comes to mental health. I have intentionally chosen to enroll in classes that will enhance my ability to help others. Of course there are required classes for a degree in psychology, but I'm not stopping there. I am taking additional psychology courses as well as pursuing an internship for next summer where I can put into practice what I have learned and learn from those who are already successful in this field. I am certain that God blessed me with the ability and opportunity to study at the University of Georgia so that I can gain all the necessary knowledge to be a servant to my community as well as to Him.

I believe that mental health is just as important as physical health. I have had loved ones who have been affected by mental health issues and I, myself, have been affected. During my junior and senior years of high school, I began to suffer from anxiety, depression, and panic attacks. It felt like the world was closing in on me and I had no control over it. With the pressures of high school and the looming pressures of college, I was completely overwhelmed. My parents and I knew that it was important for me to get help on how to cope with the feelings I was having. After talking to the doctor, we decided on a course of action that ultimately gave me my life back. Between talk therapy, proper medication and learning many different coping mechanisms I was finally feeling more like myself again. Following the course of action, we decided on, I have been able to gain more independence. I was attending a college near my home so I could live with my parents as I regained control of my mental health. I have since then been able to transfer to the University of Georgia and I am thriving. I no longer feel like the world is against me. I am maintaining a high GPA, managing my classwork and time well, and making new friends. I continue to take my medication and use the coping skills that I have learned and I am enjoying life again. When I was 13, my grandfather had a massive hemorrhagic stroke that debilitated him nearly to the point of death. He went from being the strongest person I have ever known to someone who didn't recognize me and could no longer care for himself. Our family is very supportive of each other and once we knew that he would live, my mother and aunt began looking for facilities that could and would help him regain some independence. They found a neurological rehabilitation center that was willing to work with him. they made no promises, but they were willing to try. We visited him several times a week and were able to see just how much he was improving, even though the doctors at the hospital gave us no hope that he would ever do more than just lay in a bed. Through hard work and a lot of prayer, within 3 months the therapists at the rehabilitation facility were able to give us back the man we once knew. Of course, it wasn't the same as before the stroke, but he could care for himself and he knew who we were again. I will say it again, mental health is just as important as physical health. We continue to care for him and we make sure that his physical and mental health needs are met. Maintaining my mental health is of high importance to me. I continue to care for myself physically by eating right, exercising, and properly taking my medication. I care for myself mentally by practicing my coping skills, surrounding myself with positive friends and family, and maintaining a high standard of how I will allow myself to be treated by others. I am currently enrolled at the University of Georgia as a Psychology major. I am on track to earn my Ph.D. My experiences have shown me that being a mental health care provider is not only something that I will enjoy, but it's something that I know I will be good at and I am excited to help change the lives of others in a very positive way.

I began my school career at our local public school. I liked to learn and was excited to be around all of my friends all day. By the time I was in first grade, my teacher just loved me because she could always count on me to come up with the correct answer when no one else could. After a few tests and some discussions, I was told I was a gifted kid. I had no idea what that meant. I suppose I still am, but I don't understand the label of “gifted” and all that comes with it, to be perfectly honest with you. As a gifted student, I was afforded the luxury of being surrounded by others who were also considered gifted. So, we were all intellectually gifted. The smart kids. The ones who read the announcements, led the pledges, introduced special speakers or guests at assemblies, and helped all the teachers when they needed a responsible student helper. But, unfortunately, we were not always the nicest kids. Many of my classmates felt that their intellectual gifts made them better than the other students. Their words and actions toward our fellow students were not always kind. I will not stand by and allow a person to treat another like they are less than or tell them that they are slow or stupid. Because of this, I spent more than my fair share of time with the school counselor explaining why I was verbally dressing down a classmate or physically moving them away from their victim. Of course, the counselor understood my motives but still had to make sure that I knew that my behavior was not appropriate. I really can't stand bullying and I most certainly wasn't going to just sit by and let it happen right in front of me. That's not how I was raised. Even though I was told time and time again to mind my own business and leave others to fight their own fights, it was not in me to just let it happen. After yet another discussion with my parents about having to see the counselor for standing up for someone, they gave me their blessing to continue to be an advocate for those who would not or could not stand up for themselves. I did not have to be told twice. The very next day, one of my classmates was, once again, picking on a student from one of the general education classes. This kid was not stupid or even intellectually slow, but my classmate was certainly making sure everyone around could hear him being called “dumb”, “slow”, and, well, I refuse to even type the horrible word that he used next. Without hesitation, I left my swing and proceeded to make sure that the next words everyone heard were about how horrible he must feel about himself to feel he must constantly belittle those around him. I spent the next few minutes making sure that he understood that, although he is considered one of the smart kids, he is emotionally immature and how sorry I felt for him that he felt his life was such an awful existence that he insisted on putting others down just to make himself feel better. Of course, I was back in the counselor's office within minutes of that incident. It was soon after that my parents decided that my educational and emotional needs would be better served at a small, private, Christian school. There, my love of others and willingness to stand up for those who needed it was fostered and I was allowed to grow into a young adult that I, and my parents, are proud of. I am currently pursuing a degree in Psychology at the University of Georgia with plans to attain my Ph. D. My career goals include being an advocate for students who, like myself, were not allowed to use their gifts in the public school system to fight bullying and to help each student understand that they are all gifted in their own way. Being gifted is not just about being smart; it's about being kind, understanding, inclusive, and sharing love with others.

I have been a Zendaya fan since the "Shake it Up" years. As a child, I enjoyed watching her dance with such confidence and poise. My little brother and I would stand in front of the television and dance along with her during every episode. Now, I am most certainly not a dancer, but I enjoyed the freedom and fun I had while dancing with Zendaya. I'm just glad that no one was watching. I didn't have the confidence that was displayed on the screen. As time passed, I outgrew the "kid shows" and moved on to more adult things. Fortunately for me, so did Zendaya. I remember how excited I was to find out that she was starring in a major film and would be singing and acting! It didn't take much convincing to get my mother to take me to see "The Greatest Showman" as she is also a fan of Zendaya. She lit up the screen and then some. Her amazing singing voice filled the theater. So much talent in one young woman. I admired her confidence and how much she had grown as an actress. This time I learned to sing along with her. My confidence was growing. Now I find myself an even bigger fan of Zendaya. Not because of her dancing or her acting or singing. I saw a video of her sharing the gospel of Jesus with anyone who would listen. I just love that her confidence and fame have allowed her to share the love of Jesus with those around her. As a Christian, I have found that sharing the gospel with others can be a difficult undertaking. It takes poise, confidence, knowledge and a genuine love for others. I see all of those qualities in Zendaya. Just as I learned to dance and sing with Zendaya, I also learned to have the ability to tell others about the one true God and his love for us right along with her. I am now taking all of those qualities with me into college and beyond. I am currently pursuing an undergraduate degree in Psychology to continue my education through both a Masters Degree as well as attain my Ph.D.. My passion lies in helping others who suffer from mental health issues both large and small. I have personally been affected by untreated mental illness within my family, as well as the families of my friends, and believe with all of my heart that God has shown me that this is the path He has set for me. I am certain that God blessed me with the ability and opportunity to study at the University of Georgia so that I can gain all the necessary knowledge to be a servant to my community as well as to Him. There are not many Psychologists who will offer someone their professional opinion as well as one from the perspective of a Christian. I want to help as many people as I can, so I want to be able to offer other Christians a therapist who shares their faith. This is my ultimate goal. Removing the stigma of mental illness is difficult for anyone, but as Christians, we are taught to lean on God for everything. I want the Christian community to know that it is alright to seek therapy for depression, anxiety, OCD, as well as all the other illnesses of the mind. I hope to show that God uses us, as Christians, to help heal each other.

I am currently pursuing an undergraduate degree in Psychology to continue my education through both a Masters Degree as well as attain my Ph.D. My passion lies in helping others who suffer from mental health issues both large and small. I have personally been affected by untreated mental illness within my family, as well as the families of my friends, and believe with all of my heart that God has shown me that this is the path He has set for me. There are so many who suffer silently because they believe there is no hope and that their situation is beyond their control. My goal is to bring back to my community an understanding and compassionate heart that is equipped to help erase the stigma associated with depression, anxiety, and other treatable mental illnesses. Living in a small community it seems as though everyone knows everyone's business. Of course, that's not entirely true, but it is one reason that mental health treatment is not sought by many who could truly benefit from it. I plan to be a voice in my community that seeks to normalize mental health as being just as important as physical health. I am a firm believer that if someone is suffering from a mental health issue that requires medication as a treatment they should, by all means, take the prescribed medication. However, there are many times when medication is not enough or that it is not the appropriate treatment for the situation. Talk therapy and learning coping techniques are a vital part of the recovery process and beyond when you are talking about mental health. Just as Physical Therapy or Occupational Therapy are valid avenues to seek treatment, speaking with a licensed and properly educated therapist is as well. My parents have always been fantastic advocates for me in every aspect of my life. They have always been on my side no matter what the situation. Unfortunately, not every family has that same dynamic. I would like to change that in my hometown and beyond. My vision for that is to offer free classes or seminars to families on the realities of what mental health means and how to spot early warning signs of trouble in their children and teens, as well as in their elderly family members. There are so many ways that individuals can be helped before they reach crisis level. I hope to be able to spread the knowledge of not only how to spot a potential issue, but how to foster a family environment that will help to ease the healing process for those being treated. I am spending my college years gaining all of the knowledge that I can on how to properly assist individuals, families, and communities on how to properly care for themselves and others when it comes to mental health. I have intentionally chosen to enroll in classes that will enhance my ability to help others. Of course, there are required classes for a degree in psychology, but I'm not stopping there. I am taking additional psychology courses as well as pursuing an internship for next summer where I can put into practice what I have learned and learn from those who are already successful in this field. I am certain that God blessed me with the ability and opportunity to study at the University of Georgia so that I can gain all the necessary knowledge to be a servant to my community as well as to Him.

An essay about Spider-Man? Yes, please! Spider-Man has a special place in my personal history. I was born in October of 2002 and that was the year that the Spider-Man series starring Tobey McGuire hit the big screen. However, it's a little more personal than that. My parents decided to go out on one last date before I was to make their world turn upside down and they decided to go see Tobey McGuire in Spider-Man. On the way home from the theater that night, I decided it was time to make my entrance. I was born the very next day. In July of 2004, my mother was heavily pregnant with my brother. Once again my parents decided on a date night. Being a lover of cinema and superheroes, Mama decided to go see the new Spider-Man film, also with Tobey McGuire. That night they were to stay the night at a friend's house and spend the next day with them. Little brother had other plans. That night he was born. And, no, his name is not Tobey or Peter. Watching those two films has become an event at our house and always sparks new stories of how my brother and I came to be and how Spider-Man played an integral part in our lives. The big joke is that Tobey McGuire didn't stop there. In 2007 my parents heard that a new Spider-Man film was being released. My parents looked at each other and laughed. My mother simply looked at my father and said "No sir! You stay over there!". I suppose this essay was supposed to tell you how perfect Tobey McGuire was for the role of Spider-Man. His mannerisms and how he portrayed both Peter Parker and Spider-Man made the character vulnerable but tough. All of that is true, but for my family, Tobey McGuire as Spider-Man means that we, as a family, are pretty super in our way. And, yes, when Spider-Man: No Way Home came to theaters in 2021 we all had a great laugh, and went to the movies as a family of four.

I am not an avid book reader, but I have found myself drawn to film. I've had a fascination with the film trilogy of Unbreakable, Split and Glass. In all three movies the protagonist, and sometimes the antagonist, are seen as mentally ill when in reality they are people who have superpowers. Some use their powers for good, some for evil, but all are looked at unfavorably because of the stigma of mental illness. Of course, this is not a reality-based scenario, however, I do understand the idea of feeling like you are not yourself and that, in a way, that does give you a superpower. During my junior and senior years of high school, I began to suffer from anxiety, depression, and panic attacks. It felt like the world was closing in on me and I had no control over it. With the pressures of high school and the looming pressures of college, I was completely overwhelmed. My parents and I knew that it was important for me to get help on how to cope with the feelings I was having. After talking to the doctor, we decided on a course of action that ultimately gave me my life back. Between talk therapy, proper medication and learning many different coping mechanisms I was finally feeling more like myself again. Following the course of action, we decided on, I have been able to gain more independence. I was attending a college near my home so I could live with my parents as I regained control of my mental health. I have since then been able to transfer to the University of Georgia and I am thriving. I no longer feel like the world is against me. I am maintaining a high GPA, managing my classwork and time well, and making new friends. I continue to take my medication and use the coping skills that I have learned and I am enjoying life again. Maintaining my mental health is of high importance to me. I continue to care for myself physically by eating right, exercising, and properly taking my medication. I care for myself mentally by practicing my coping skills, surrounding myself with positive friends and family, and maintaining a high standard of how I will allow myself to be treated by others. I am currently enrolled at the University of Georgia as a Psychology major. I am on track to earn my Ph.D. My experiences have shown me that being a mental health care provider is not only something that I will enjoy, but it's something that I know I will be good at and I am excited to help change the lives of others in a very positive way. You see, my superpower is that I have the ability and experience that will allow me to help those who may feel helpless or like life is just too much for them. I can't wait to use my superpowers for good.

There have been two instances in my life that I consider to be challenges that I faced. During my junior and senior years of high school, I began to suffer from anxiety, depression, and panic attacks. It felt like the world was closing in on me and I had no control over it. With the pressures of high school and the looming pressures of college, I was completely overwhelmed. My parents and I knew that it was important for me to get help on how to cope with the feelings I was having. After talking to the doctor, we decided on a course of action that ultimately gave me my life back. Between talk therapy, proper medication and learning many different coping mechanisms I was finally feeling more like myself again. Following the course of action, we decided on, I have been able to gain more independence. I was attending a college near my home so I could live with my parents as I regained control of my mental health. I have since then been able to transfer to the University of Georgia and I am thriving. I no longer feel like the world is against me. I am maintaining a high GPA, managing my classwork and time well, and making new friends. I continue to take my medication and use the coping skills that I have learned and I am enjoying life again. When I was 13, my grandfather had a massive hemorrhagic stroke that debilitated him nearly to the point of death. He went from being the strongest person I have ever known to someone who didn't recognize me and could no longer care for himself. Our family is very supportive of each other and once we knew that he would live, my mother and aunt began looking for facilities that could and would help him regain some independence. They found a neurological rehabilitation center that was willing to work with him. They made no promises, but they were willing to try. We visited him several times a week and were able to see just how much he was improving, even though the doctors at the hospital gave us no hope that he would ever do more than just lay in a bed. Through hard work and a lot of prayer, within 3 months the therapists at the rehabilitation facility were able to give us back the man we once knew. Of course, it wasn't the same as before the stroke, but he could care for himself and he knew who we were again. I will say it again, mental health is just as important as physical health. We continue to care for him and we make sure that his physical and mental health needs are met. Maintaining my mental health is of high importance to me. I continue to care for myself physically by eating right, exercising, and properly taking my medication. I care for myself mentally by practicing my coping skills, surrounding myself with positive friends and family, and maintaining a high standard of how I will allow myself to be treated by others. I am currently enrolled at the University of Georgia as a Psychology major. I am on track to earn my Ph.D. My experiences have shown me that being a mental health care provider is not only something that I will enjoy, but it's something that I know I will be good at and I am excited to help change the lives of others in a very positive way.

Here I am. A Gen-Z-er. The daughter of Gen X-ers. Saving the world was never on the agenda. I was too busy playing outside with my brother and the neighborhood kids. Our biggest problems as kids were making it home in time for dinner and whose house we were going to play at if it rained. Now I am a college student who is facing the world and all of the problems that were created by the generations before mine. How is it that my generation is supposed to fix things we didn't break? My parents never asked me what I wanted to be when I grew up. I was asked, "What problem do you want to solve when you're older?". There were times I wanted to help cure sick animals, teach special education students to be more independent, and even study chiropractic medicine so people would have options other than taking medicine for their pain. All noble causes in my opinion, but none of these is where life has taken me to this point. As I read the Ode To Millennials-Gen Z above, I realized that I am not built to solve only one problem in this life. I am called to be a voice for the voiceless. I am called to help those who see the world as hopeless and feel helpless living in these absurd and difficult times. I am called to help those who feel powerless to find their power and use it to better the world for us all. God has called me to become a therapist. I am working diligently on obtaining my Psychology degree and will continue to work until I have achieved my Ph.D. in Psychology and become a licensed therapist. I am spending my college years gaining all of the knowledge that I can on how to properly assist individuals, families, and communities on how to properly care for themselves and others when it comes to mental health. I have intentionally chosen to enroll in classes that will enhance my ability to help others. Of course, there are required classes for a degree in psychology, but I'm not stopping there. I am taking additional psychology courses as well as pursuing an internship for next summer where I can put into practice what I have learned and learn from those who are already successful in this field. I am certain that God blessed me with the ability and opportunity to study at the University of Georgia so that I can gain all the necessary knowledge to be a servant to my community as well as to Him. Helping others gain and maintain good mental health is the plan God has laid on my heart. I may not be solving the budget crisis, fighting global warming or single-handedly turning around unemployment, but I will be helping others to become who they are supposed to be in this world. We all have a role and if I can help just one person become the problem solver they are called to be then my goal has been accomplished. We are all in this together. Each of us has our problem we are to solve. I truly believe that God will use me to touch the lives of many who might not reach their full potential without my help. That is what this Gen Z-er is supposed to do in this life. My role is to lift and encourage others in my generation so that together we can be the generation that makes our world a better place for now and future generations.

I am Samantha Dixon and I am a Junior at the University of Georgia currently pursuing an undergraduate degree in Psychology and will continue my education through both a Masters's Degree as well as attain my Ph.D. My passion lies in helping others who suffer from mental health issues both large and small. I have personally been affected by untreated mental illness within my family, as well as the families of my friends, and believe with all of my heart that God has shown me that this is the path He has set for me. There are so many who suffer silently because they believe there is no hope and that their situation is beyond their control. My goal is to bring back to my community an understanding and compassionate heart that is equipped to help erase the stigma associated with depression, anxiety, and other treatable mental illnesses. Living in a small community it seems as though everyone knows everyone's business. Of course, that's not entirely true, but it is one reason that mental health treatment is not sought by many who could truly benefit from it. I plan to be a voice in my community that seeks to normalize mental health as being just as important as physical health. I am a firm believer that if someone is suffering from a mental health issue that requires medication as a treatment they should, by all means, take the prescribed medication. However, there are many times when medication is not enough or it is not the appropriate treatment for the situation. Talk therapy and learning coping techniques are a vital part of the recovery process and beyond when you are talking about mental health. Just as Physical Therapy or Occupational Therapy are valid avenues to seek treatment, speaking with a licensed and properly educated therapist is as well. I am spending my college years gaining all of the knowledge that I can on how to properly assist individuals, families, and communities on how to properly care for themselves and others when it comes to mental health. I have intentionally chosen to enroll in classes that will enhance my ability to help others. Of course, there are required classes for a degree in psychology, but I'm not stopping there. I am taking additional psychology courses as well as pursuing an internship for next summer where I can put into practice what I have learned and learn from those who are already successful in this field. I am certain that God blessed me with the ability and opportunity to study at the University of Georgia so that I can gain all the necessary knowledge to be a servant to my community as well as to Him. There are not many Psychologists that will offer someone their professional opinion as well as one from the perspective of a Christian. I want to help as many people as I can, so I want to be able to offer other Christians a therapist who shares their faith. This is my ultimate goal. Removing the stigma of mental illness is difficult for anyone, but as Christians, we are taught to lean on God for everything. I want the Christian community to know that it is alright to seek therapy for depression, anxiety, OCD, as well as all the other illnesses of the mind. I hope to show that God uses us, as Christians, to help heal each other.

Kindness and compassion for others are not things that are practiced much in our communities anymore. So many people live a self-centered, self-aggrandizing lifestyle and have no concern or compassion for their fellow man. I have made it my purpose in life to be uplifting to others rather than tear them down. This is how I exemplify a spirit of excellence in my everyday life. I am a Christian and a part of practicing my faith is loving others as God loves us. I can't say that I do this perfectly, because I don't. It is, however, something that I strive for and do my best to practice. I have had many missed opportunities and in those situations, I do my best to seek forgiveness from the ones I may have failed. It is important in our world that we are kind to everyone, especially those who are different from us or have different beliefs than we do. Whether the difference is that of race, religion, culture, ability or any other difference, we are all created by God for His purpose. Since God loved me enough to send His son to this earth to die for my transgressions, the very least I can do is show love to all of those who He loves. My goal is to become a Psychologist and come back to my small community and help to reduce the stigma of mental health care. My vision is to offer free classes or seminars to families on the realities of what mental health means and how to spot early warning signs of trouble in their children and teens, as well as in their elderly family members. There are so many ways that individuals can be helped before they reach crisis level. I hope to be able to spread the knowledge of not only how to spot a potential issue, but how to foster a family environment that will help to ease the healing process for those being treated. I am currently pursuing an undergraduate degree in Psychology and will continue my education through both a Masters's Degree as well as attain my Ph.D. My passion lies in helping others who suffer from mental health issues both large and small. I have personally been affected by untreated mental illness within my family, as well as the families of my friends, and believe with all of my heart that God has shown me that this is the path He has set for me.

First and foremost, I am a Christian. I believe in God and that Jesus came to earth to bear our sins so that we can be free and we will one day live with Him in Heaven. I am currently enrolled at the University of Georgia as a Psychology major to ultimately earn my Ph.D. I feel that God has called me to this field and that he has equipped me for the mission field he has set before me. I am certain that God blessed me with the ability and opportunity to study at the University of Georgia so that I can gain all the necessary knowledge to be a servant to my community as well as to Him. There are not many Psychologists that will offer someone their professional opinion as well as one from the perspective of a Christian. I want to help as many people as I can, so I want to be able to offer other Christians a therapist who shares their faith. This is my ultimate goal. Removing the stigma of mental illness is difficult for anyone, but as Christians, we are taught to lean on God for everything. I want the Christian community to know that it is alright to seek therapy for depression, anxiety, OCD, as well as all the other illnesses of the mind. I hope to show that God uses us, as Christians, to help heal each other. My parents have always been fantastic advocates for me in every aspect of my life. They have always been on my side no matter what the situation. Unfortunately, not every family has that same dynamic. I would like to change that in my hometown and beyond. My vision for that is to offer free classes or seminars to families on the realities of what mental health means and how to spot early warning signs of trouble in their children and teens, as well as in their elderly family members. There are so many ways that individuals can be helped before they reach crisis level. I hope to be able to spread the knowledge of not only how to spot a potential issue, but how to foster a family environment that will help to ease the healing process for those being treated. Again, I know that this is the mission field that God has for me and I am excited to finish my education and start doing what He has for me to do.

I am currently a Junior attending the University of Georgia majoring in Psychology. My career goal is to become a therapist and help others, like myself, who have suffered from mental illness as well as help the family members who love them. I am on track to earn a Ph.D. in Psychology. During my junior and senior years of high school, I began to suffer from anxiety, depression, and panic attacks. It felt like the world was closing in on me and I had no control over it. With the pressures of high school and the looming pressures of college, I was completely overwhelmed. My parents and I knew that it was important for me to get help on how to cope with the feelings I was having. After talking to the doctor, we decided on a course of action that ultimately gave me my life back. Between talk therapy, proper medication and learning many different coping mechanisms I was finally feeling more like myself again. Following the course of action, we decided on, I have been able to gain more independence. I was attending a college near my home so I could live with my parents as I regained control of my mental health. I have since then been able to transfer to the University of Georgia and I am thriving. I no longer feel like the world is against me. I am maintaining a high GPA, managing my classwork and time well, and making new friends. I continue to take my medication and use the coping skills that I have learned and I am enjoying life again. When I was 13, my grandfather had a massive hemorrhagic stroke that debilitated him nearly to the point of death. He went from being the strongest person I have ever known to someone who didn't recognize me and could no longer care for himself. Our family is very supportive of each other and once we knew that he would live, my mother and aunt began looking for facilities that could and would help him regain some independence. They found a neurological rehabilitation center that was willing to work with him. they made no promises, but they were willing to try. We visited him several times a week and were able to see just how much he was improving, even though the doctors at the hospital gave us no hope that he would ever do more than just lay in a bed. Through hard work and a lot of prayer, within 3 months the therapists at the rehabilitation facility were able to give us back the man we once knew. Of course, it wasn't the same as before the stroke, but he could care for himself and he knew who we were again. We continue to care for him and we make sure that his physical and mental health needs are met. My family and I are advocates for those who need mental healthcare. We believe that mental health is just as important as physical health. Working through my mental health condition and working with my family to overcome the obstacles that my grandfather had was an eye-opening experience for me. I learned that the stigma attached to mental health needs to be broken and I would like to be a part of erasing that stigma.

I am currently enrolled as an undergraduate student majoring in Psychology and on track for my Ph.D. My goal is to be a Psychologist so I can use my education and my personal experiences to help those in need of mental health counseling. During my junior and senior years of high school, I began to suffer from anxiety, depression, and panic attacks. It felt like the world was closing in on me and I had no control over it. With the pressures of high school and the looming pressures of college, I was completely overwhelmed. My parents and I knew that it was important for me to get help on how to cope with the feelings I was having. After talking to the doctor, we decided on a course of action that ultimately gave me my life back. Between talk therapy, proper medication and learning many different coping mechanisms I was finally feeling more like myself again. Following the course of action, we decided on, I have been able to gain more independence. I was attending a college near my home so I could live with my parents as I regained control of my mental health. I have since then been able to transfer to the University of Georgia and I am thriving. I no longer feel like the world is against me. I am maintaining a high GPA, managing my classwork and time well, and making new friends. I continue to take my medication and use the coping skills that I have learned and I am enjoying life again. When I was 13, my grandfather had a massive hemorrhagic stroke that debilitated him nearly to the point of death. He went from being the strongest person I have ever known to someone who didn't recognize me and could no longer care for himself. Our family is very supportive of each other and once we knew that he would live, my mother and aunt began looking for facilities that could and would help him regain some independence. They found a neurological rehabilitation center that was willing to work with him. they made no promises, but they were willing to try. We visited him several times a week and were able to see just how much he was improving, even though the doctors at the hospital gave us no hope that he would ever do more than just lay in a bed. Through hard work and a lot of prayer, within 3 months the therapists at the rehabilitation facility were able to give us back the man we once knew. Of course, it wasn't the same as before the stroke, but he could care for himself and he knew who we were again. We continue to care for him and we make sure that his physical and mental health needs are met. Through this process, I learned that I could make a difference in the lives of people like my grandfather and the family members who love them. I have made my career choice because I feel l that I have been called to this profession. I want to make a difference for people like myself. I understand how difficult it is to struggle with mental illness. Mental health is just as important as physical health. I want to use my career as a way to help others regain their lives and make the most of the time God has given them on this earth.

We live in a self-centered world. Everywhere you look people are taking pictures and posting selfies tagged "It's all about me". In a world where everyone's so busy with their selfish wants and needs, we are called to be compassionate and selfless. As a follower of Christ, helping others is just a small way for me to share God's love. God has called me to serve, or help, in many ways. Helping others is not always glamorous. Even times that it's difficult or not really what I want to be doing at that moment, I have always found it rewarding and at the end of the day I am always glad that I chose to serve. We need to help others because it is what we are called to do by God and it brings Him glory. That itself is reason enough for me. However, if you have ever volunteered to serve those who are in dire need of help, you truly understand the blessing that comes from helping. Helping others who are in need shows the love of God to others in an undeniable way. When I was 10 years old, I went with my parents on a mission trip. We went to hold Vacation Bible School for a church that was struggling and on the brink of closing. We also took teams that were to do maintenance on the building and help to work with the pastor and deacons on how to better serve their community. My job was as a classroom assistant for kids my age. It was fun making new friends and being able to share with them what I knew about Jesus and how to live a more Christian life. I made a friend named Valerie. She had dark hair and brown eyes. She was a very pretty girl. We had a lot of the same interests. We both loved music and history and playing softball. Toward the end of the week, we were asked if we wanted to see where some of the kids lived. Of course, I said yes. I wanted to know where Valerie lived. We drove around looking at the houses. I began to understand why we were there to serve. The houses were run down, some didn't have windows, only wood covering the opening. Some didn't have running water or electricity. We came to a house that had a sign on the porch that said: "Condemned by Tazewell County Building Inspector". The roof had fallen in on one side. There was a tarp covering a few holes. We were told the house, even though it had been condemned, was occupied by a family of four. That was where my new friend, Valerie, lived with her parents and little brother. Nothing had prepared me for the sadness I felt at that moment. It had not occurred to me that Valerie was any different from me. We were so much alike. We were both happy 10-year-old girls. Serving for that time in West Virginia showed me just how much I loved helping others. It wasn't difficult or a waste of my time. Serving others and showing them love is why I'm here. It's my purpose and calling. I still have a picture of me and Valerie on my desk. I still pray for her. I hope that she knows just how much she taught me and how often I think of her. I'm studying to be a Psychologist. I want to continue to help others. It's what God has for me to do and I am so ready to be of service.

I used to hate reading and would avoid it at all costs. We were assigned this book to read for my English class in high school and I was looking for a way to cut corners and not read it. If I could have everyone in the world read just one book, I would have them read "To Kill a Mockingbird" by Harper Lee. My mother encouraged me to sit down and read "To Kill a Mockingbird" cover to cover as she was certain that this book would be different. After some motherly persuasion, I caved and promised to read this one all the way through. I am so glad I did. The lessons taught in this story are far beyond what I could imagine. Living in the South I understand that racism exists, but I am not personally affected by it on a large scale. Reading this book brought to light the level of hate and racist thought that was a reality in this country. The story not only covers the idea of racism but also the bias that is shown toward individuals with disabilities, whether mental or physical. Making assumptions about people based on others' feelings about them or what they look like is a surefire way to rob yourself of meeting someone incredible. I believe that if everyone read this book they would have a deeper understanding of how to love one another for who we are instead of what we look like. I have friends of all shapes, sizes, races, religions, ethnicities, and abilities. Each one has enriched my life differently. Loving people for who they are is not as difficult as people make it out to be. My Christian faith has helped me to learn to love others unconditionally. Our differences are not a reason for hate. We enrich each other's lives with our differences. Harper Lee taught me not only to love others but to love reading.

I see myself using my Ph.D. in Psychology to reduce the stigma attached to mental illness and offer treatment options and support to individuals and their families who suffer from mental illness.

There have been two instances in my life that have led me to my stance on mental health. I believe that mental health is just as important as physical health. I have had loved ones who have been affected by mental health issues and I, myself, have been affected. During my junior and senior years of high school, I began to suffer from anxiety, depression, and panic attacks. It felt like the world was closing in on me and I had no control over it. With the pressures of high school and the looming pressures of college, I was completely overwhelmed. My parents and I knew that it was important for me to get help on how to cope with the feelings I was having. After talking to the doctor, we decided on a course of action that ultimately gave me my life back. Between talk therapy, proper medication and learning many different coping mechanisms I was finally feeling more like myself again. Following the course of action, we decided on, I have been able to gain more independence. I was attending a college near my home so I could live with my parents as I regained control of my mental health. I have since then been able to transfer to the University of Georgia and I am thriving. I no longer feel like the world is against me. I am maintaining a high GPA, managing my classwork and time well, and making new friends. I continue to take my medication and use the coping skills that I have learned and I am enjoying life again. When I was 13, my grandfather had a massive hemorrhagic stroke that debilitated him nearly to the point of death. He went from being the strongest person I have ever known to someone who didn't recognize me and could no longer care for himself. My mother and aunt began looking for facilities that could and would help him regain some independence. They found a neurological rehabilitation center that was willing to work with him. they made no promises, but they were willing to try. We visited him several times a week and were able to see just how much he was improving, even though the doctors at the hospital gave us no hope that he would ever do more than just lay in a bed. Through hard work and a lot of prayer, within 3 months the therapists at the rehabilitation facility were able to give us back the man we once knew. It wasn't the same as before the stroke, but he could care for himself and he knew who we were again. I will say it again, mental health is just as important as physical health. We continue to care for him and we make sure that his physical and mental health needs are met. Maintaining my mental health is of high importance to me. I continue to care for myself physically by eating right, exercising, and properly taking my medication. I care for myself mentally by practicing my coping skills, surrounding myself with positive friends and family, and maintaining a high standard of how I will allow myself to be treated by others. I am currently enrolled at the University of Georgia as a Psychology major. I am on track to earn my Ph.D. My experiences have shown me that being a mental health care provider is not only something that I will enjoy, but it's something that I know I will be good at and I am excited to help change the lives of others in a very positive way.

There have been two instances in my life that have led me to my stance on mental health. I believe that mental health is just as important as physical health. I have had loved ones who have been affected by mental health issues and I, myself, have been affected. During my junior and senior years of high school, I began to suffer from anxiety, depression, and panic attacks. It felt like the world was closing in on me and I had no control over it. With the pressures of high school and the looming pressures of college, I was completely overwhelmed. My parents and I knew that it was important for me to get help on how to cope with the feelings I was having. After talking to the doctor, we decided on a course of action that ultimately gave me my life back. Between talk therapy, proper medication and learning many different coping mechanisms I was finally feeling more like myself again. Following the course of action, we decided on, I have been able to gain more independence. I was attending a college near my home so I could live with my parents as I regained control of my mental health. I have since then been able to transfer to the University of Georgia and I am thriving. I no longer feel like the world is against me. I am maintaining a high GPA, managing my classwork and time well, and making new friends. I continue to take my medication and use the coping skills that I have learned and I am enjoying life again. When I was 13, my grandfather had a massive hemorrhagic stroke that debilitated him nearly to the point of death. He went from being the strongest person I have ever known to someone who didn't recognize me and could no longer care for himself. Our family is very supportive of each other and once we knew that he would live, my mother and aunt began looking for facilities that could and would help him regain some independence. They found a neurological rehabilitation center that was willing to work with him. they made no promises, but they were willing to try. We visited him several times a week and were able to see just how much he was improving, even though the doctors at the hospital gave us no hope that he would ever do more than just lay in a bed. Through hard work and a lot of prayer, within 3 months the therapists at the rehabilitation facility were able to give us back the man we once knew. Of course, it wasn't the same as before the stroke, but he could care for himself and he knew who we were again. I will say it again, mental health is just as important as physical health. We continue to care for him and we make sure that his physical and mental health needs are met. Maintaining my mental health is of high importance to me. I continue to care for myself physically by eating right, exercising, and properly taking my medication. I care for myself mentally by practicing my coping skills, surrounding myself with positive friends and family, and maintaining a high standard of how I will allow myself to be treated by others. I am currently enrolled at the University of Georgia as a Psychology major. I am on track to earn my Ph.D. My experiences have shown me that being a mental health care provider is not only something that I will enjoy, but it's something that I know I will be good at and I am excited to help change the lives of others in a very positive way.

There have been two instances in my life that have led me to my stance on mental health. I believe that mental health is just as important as physical health. I have had loved ones who have been affected by mental health issues and I, myself, have been affected. During my junior and senior years of high school, I began to suffer from anxiety, depression, and panic attacks. It felt like the world was closing in on me and I had no control over it. With the pressures of high school and the looming pressures of college, I was completely overwhelmed. My parents and I knew that it was important for me to get help on how to cope with the feelings I was having. After talking to the doctor, we decided on a course of action that ultimately gave me my life back. Between talk therapy, proper medication and learning many different coping mechanisms I was finally feeling more like myself again. Following the course of action, we decided on, I have been able to gain more independence. I was attending a college near my home so I could live with my parents as I regained control of my mental health. I have since then been able to transfer to the University of Georgia and I am thriving. I no longer feel like the world is against me. I am maintaining a high GPA, managing my classwork and time well, and making new friends. I continue to take my medication and use the coping skills that I have learned and I am enjoying life again. When I was 13, my grandfather had a massive hemorrhagic stroke that debilitated him nearly to the point of death. He went from being the strongest person I have ever known to someone who didn't recognize me and could no longer care for himself. Our family is very supportive of each other and once we knew that he would live, my mother and aunt began looking for facilities that could and would help him regain some independence. They found a neurological rehabilitation center that was willing to work with him. they made no promises, but they were willing to try. We visited him several times a week and were able to see just how much he was improving, even though the doctors at the hospital gave us no hope that he would ever do more than just lay in a bed. Through hard work and a lot of prayer, within 3 months the therapists at the rehabilitation facility were able to give us back the man we once knew. Of course it wasn't the same as before the stroke, but he could care for himself and he knew who we were again. I will say it again, mental health is just as important as physical health. We continue to care for him and we make sure that his physical and mental health needs are met. Maintaining my mental health is of high importance to me. I continue to care for myself physically by eating right, exercising, and properly taking my medication. I care for myself mentally by practicing my coping skills, surrounding myself with positive friends and family, and maintaining a high standard of how I will allow myself to be treated by others. I am currently enrolled at the University of Georgia as a Psychology major. I am on track to earn my PhD. My experiences have shown me that being a mental healthcare provider is not only something that I will enjoy, but it's something that I know I will be good at and I am excited to help change the lives of others in a very positive way.

There have been two instances in my life that have led me to my stance on mental health. I believe that mental health is just as important as physical health. I have had loved ones who have been affected by mental health issues and I, myself, have been affected. During my junior and senior years of high school, I began to suffer from anxiety, depression, and panic attacks. It felt like the world was closing in on me and I had no control over it. With the pressures of high school and the looming pressures of college, I was completely overwhelmed. My parents and I knew that it was important for me to get help on how to cope with the feelings I was having. After talking to the doctor, we decided on a course of action that ultimately gave me my life back. Between talk therapy, proper medication and learning many different coping mechanisms I was finally feeling more like myself again. Following the course of action, we decided on, I have been able to gain more independence. I was attending a college near my home so I could live with my parents as I regained control of my mental health. I have since then been able to transfer to the University of Georgia and I am thriving. I no longer feel like the world is against me. I am maintaining a high GPA, managing my classwork and time well, and making new friends. I continue to take my medication and use the coping skills that I have learned and I am enjoying life again. When I was 13, my grandfather had a massive hemorrhagic stroke that debilitated him nearly to the point of death. He went from being the strongest person I have ever known to someone who didn't recognize me and could no longer care for himself. Our family is very supportive of each other and once we knew that he would live, my mother and aunt began looking for facilities that could and would help him regain some independence. They found a neurological rehabilitation center that was willing to work with him. they made no promises, but they were willing to try. We visited him several times a week and were able to see just how much he was improving, even though the doctors at the hospital gave us no hope that he would ever do more than just lay in a bed. Through hard work and a lot of prayer, within 3 months the therapists at the rehabilitation facility were able to give us back the man we once knew. Of course it wasn't the same as before the stroke, but he could care for himself and he knew who we were again. I will say it again, mental health is just as important as physical health. We continue to care for him and we make sure that his physical and mental health needs are met. Maintaining my mental health is of high importance to me. I continue to care for myself physically by eating right, exercising, and properly taking my medication. I care for myself mentally by practicing my coping skills, surrounding myself with positive friends and family, and maintaining a high standard of how I will allow myself to be treated by others.