Being part of a community has deeply shaped my sense of hope for the future. It has shown me that even in the face of adversity, people can come together, uplift one another, and create meaningful change. Growing up in a single-parent household, I learned early on the importance of leaning on others and giving back whenever possible. That sense of connection knowing that we’re not alone in our struggles continues to inspire me to contribute to my community and pursue a career as a mental health doctor. One experience that solidified this belief happened during my involvement in a local back-to-school drive in my neighborhood. The event was organized to provide school supplies, clothing, and resources to families in need. I volunteered to help distribute supplies, organize activities for the kids, and assist parents in connecting with educational and mental health resources available in the area. At first, I didn’t think much of my role I was simply there to lend a hand. But as the day unfolded, I realized the impact even small acts of kindness can have. I remember a mother who came in with three young children. She looked overwhelmed and exhausted. While helping her gather supplies, I noticed she seemed hesitant and quiet, almost as if she felt ashamed to be asking for help. I took the time to talk with her, offer reassurance, and let her know she wasn’t alone. We ended up speaking for a while, and she opened up about her own struggles with mental health, parenting, and financial stress. By simply listening and showing empathy, I saw her demeanor shift she smiled, stood a little taller, and even thanked me for making her feel seen and supported. That interaction taught me a powerful lesson about connection and kindness. Often, people just need to feel heard and valued. It reminded me that no act of service is too small, and that genuine human connection can have a lasting impact. It also reinforced my desire to work in mental health, where I can be a steady source of support for those who feel unseen or overwhelmed. Being part of that event and others like it has shaped my sense of hope. It showed me that communities can be strong, even when resources are limited. When people come together, support one another, and share kindness, real change happens. These experiences have motivated me to stay actively involved in community service and continue working toward improving mental health awareness and access, especially in underserved communities. In the future, I plan to create programs that blend mental health education with community outreach, ensuring that people not only get the help they need but feel safe and supported in doing so. My community has taught me that hope isn’t just a feeling it’s built through action, compassion, and resilience. That’s the kind of future I want to be part of, and the kind of future I want to help create.

Growing up in a single-parent household has had a profound influence on my goals, values, and ambitions. My mother was both my caretaker and my role model. Despite the many challenges we faced, she worked tirelessly to ensure I had the best opportunities, often putting my needs before her own. The financial strain, emotional stress, and personal sacrifices we experienced as a family shaped my worldview and my drive to pursue a career that would allow me to help others in similar situations. It was through these experiences that I developed a deep sense of empathy, a strong work ethic, and a commitment to making a positive impact in my community. One of the most significant values that emerged from my upbringing is empathy. Growing up in a single-parent household, I witnessed my mother navigate numerous challenges, from financial instability to emotional stress, all while providing me with the love and support I needed. I observed the toll that these challenges took on her, and it made me keenly aware of how circumstances beyond a person’s control can affect their mental and emotional well-being. These experiences deeply impacted me and cultivated a strong desire to help others who may be struggling with similar issues. I learned that people don’t always have the resources or support they need, and often, they need someone to advocate for them and offer understanding. This led me to pursue a degree in psychology, with the goal of becoming a mental health doctor, because I believe I can use my knowledge and compassion to help those who are in crisis, facing trauma, or struggling with mental health challenges. Furthermore, growing up with limited resources and seeing how my mother navigated difficult financial circumstances has also shaped my ambition to make a difference on a broader scale. My mother often worked multiple jobs to make ends meet, and there were times when we struggled to pay bills or access the care and resources we needed. This not only instilled in me a sense of gratitude for what I had but also a deep understanding of how systemic barriers such as financial hardship can limit a person’s ability to seek help, especially when it comes to mental health care. I became aware of the significant gap in accessibility to healthcare and social support for low-income families and individuals, and I realized that many people, especially those from underserved communities, are unable to receive the care they need due to financial, cultural, or logistical reasons. As a result, my career goals have shifted toward addressing these inequalities and advocating for more accessible mental health resources. The personal challenges I faced growing up have also taught me resilience and the importance of perseverance. There were many moments in my life when I felt overwhelmed by the weight of financial struggles and the emotional toll they took on my family, but witnessing my mother’s strength in the face of adversity inspired me to never give up, even when things seemed difficult. This resilience has become a core part of who I am today. It drives me to work hard in my studies and to pursue my goal of becoming a mental health doctor, despite the obstacles I may face along the way. I have learned that success is not only about talent or intelligence but about the ability to persist through adversity and to keep moving forward, no matter the challenges. Another key value instilled in me by my upbringing is the importance of community. My mother often relied on extended family and close friends for support, and I saw how essential these networks were for our survival and well-being. This taught me the importance of building and maintaining strong, supportive communities, both personally and professionally. Whether through group therapy, community outreach, or policy advocacy, I plan to work toward creating environments where people feel comfortable seeking help. Ultimately, my experiences growing up in a single-parent household have shaped me into someone who values empathy, resilience, hard work, and community. These values have motivated me to pursue a career in the mental health field, where I can help individuals and families overcome the challenges they face and improve their well-being.

I plan on becoming a mental health doctor, specifically a psychiatrist, because I am deeply passionate about helping individuals navigate their mental health challenges and improve their well-being. I’ve always been fascinated by the complexities of the human mind and how mental health impacts every aspect of a person’s life. Through my studies in psychology and my personal experiences, I’ve developed a strong desire to not only understand these challenges but to be in a position where I can offer treatment, support, and hope to those struggling with mental health issues. Growing up in a single-mother household, I witnessed firsthand the emotional and psychological toll that both financial hardship and mental health struggles can have on individuals and families. My mother worked tirelessly to provide for us, but even with her hard work, mental health challenges often went unaddressed. This experience made me realize how crucial it is to have access to mental health resources, and it inspired me to pursue a career in psychiatry. I believe that with the right treatment, support, and understanding, individuals can overcome mental health struggles and lead fulfilling lives. This belief drives my desire to become a mental health doctor, where I can combine my psychological knowledge with medical expertise to offer both therapy and medication management for those in need. However, my journey has not been without its obstacles. Financial difficulties were a constant challenge growing up, and the cost of pursuing a medical degree has been a major hurdle. Balancing work, school, and financial responsibilities has often made it feel like a constant uphill battle. But these obstacles have only strengthened my resolve to become a mental health doctor. The struggles I faced growing up have given me a unique understanding of how financial barriers can limit access to necessary care. They’ve also instilled a deep sense of empathy, particularly for individuals who may face similar challenges when seeking mental health treatment. I believe that having experienced these difficulties will make me a more compassionate and empathetic mental health doctor. My personal background has taught me resilience and the importance of advocating for others, especially those who may not have the resources to access mental health care. I plan to use my experiences to guide my practice by ensuring that I am approachable, understanding, and committed to breaking down the barriers that prevent people from seeking help. In my future practice, I hope to advocate for more accessible mental health services, particularly for underserved communities, and ensure that cost is not a barrier to receiving proper treatment. Ultimately, I hope to make a positive impact on individuals’ lives by not only treating mental health issues but also helping to destigmatize mental illness and increase access to mental health resources for those in need. Through my journey, I hope to be the type of doctor who not only diagnoses and treats but also listens, supports, and helps people reclaim their mental health and overall quality of life.

I’m currently pursuing a degree in Psychology, driven by a deep passion for understanding human behavior and helping others. Throughout my studies, I’ve developed a strong interest in mental health and social justice, recognizing how both deeply influence an individual’s life and their ability to thrive in society. I’ve always been drawn to roles where I can make a meaningful difference, whether by offering direct support or advocating for systemic change. My goal is to blend my interest in psychology with my desire to contribute to the social work field, using my skills and knowledge to assist individuals, families, and communities facing mental health struggles, trauma, and other challenges. In the future, I aim to use my degree to work in the social work field, where I can help underserved and marginalized communities access the resources they need to improve their mental health and well-being. Whether through providing therapy, offering crisis intervention, or advocating for better access to mental health services, I hope to create tangible, positive change in the lives of those who may otherwise be overlooked or underserved. I’m particularly passionate about helping individuals and families who are experiencing financial difficulties or social marginalization, as I understand firsthand how these challenges can impact mental and emotional health. One of my major career goals is to work on programs that provide accessible mental health services to low-income communities, particularly for individuals who might not typically seek help due to stigma or lack of resources. I want to help reduce barriers to care, whether financial, cultural, or logistical, so that more people can get the support they need when they need it most. I also hope to contribute to raising awareness about mental health in general, helping to break down the stigma surrounding it, especially in communities where mental health is often overlooked. In addition to direct service, I plan to be involved in advocacy and policy work aimed at improving mental health care access. By contributing to changes in policies that affect mental health services and resources, I hope to make a broader impact that goes beyond individual therapy, addressing the systemic challenges that prevent many from receiving the help they need. On a community level, I plan to get involved with local organizations, volunteer my time to support mental health initiatives, and work on outreach programs that focus on mental health education. I want to help people understand that seeking mental health support is not a sign of weakness but an essential step toward living a healthy, fulfilling life. Through these efforts, I hope to foster a more supportive, inclusive community where individuals feel empowered to take care of their mental health. Ultimately, I envision a career where I can contribute both directly and indirectly to improving mental health awareness and access in my community, ensuring that everyone regardless of their background has the support they need to lead a healthy and fulfilling life.

I chose to pursue a degree in Psychology because I’ve always been fascinated by the human mind and behavior. I’m particularly interested in understanding the emotional and mental processes that influence people’s decisions, relationships, and overall well-being. The field of psychology offers a unique opportunity to study these intricacies and to apply that knowledge in a way that can directly improve people’s lives. As I’ve progressed in my studies, I’ve realized that psychology is not only about understanding mental health but also about supporting individuals and communities in overcoming challenges, which is a deeply motivating factor for me. One of the primary reasons I chose this path is because I want to help people. I’ve seen the profound impact that mental health can have on every aspect of an individual’s life, and I feel driven to be a part of the solution to address mental health struggles. Growing up, I observed how emotional well-being played a crucial role in a person’s ability to navigate challenges and live fulfilling lives, and I want to be in a position where I can guide people through their own struggles. Whether it’s through counseling, therapy, or community support, I am drawn to the idea of using my education to help individuals lead healthier, more balanced lives. In the future, I plan to use my degree in psychology to work in the social work field, helping individuals, families, and communities who are facing mental health issues, trauma, or social inequality. I aim to work with underserved populations, such as low-income families, individuals suffering from mental health crises, and marginalized communities, offering support and resources to help them overcome obstacles. My goal is to bridge the gap between psychological well-being and social support, ensuring that everyone, regardless of their background, has access to the mental health care they need. In addition to direct care, I also want to advocate for systemic change, particularly in areas where mental health resources are scarce or inaccessible. I see a future where I can not only provide therapy or counseling but also work on community outreach programs, policy development, and public awareness campaigns that promote mental health awareness and reduce the stigma surrounding mental illness. Ultimately, I want to use my degree to be a source of support and change in the world of mental health. My ambition is to create an environment where mental health is prioritized just as much as physical health and where individuals feel empowered to seek help when they need it. Through my work, I hope to contribute to building a society where mental well-being is an integral part of overall health, and everyone has the opportunity to live a fulfilling and mentally healthy life.

I come from a single-mother household, and growing up in that environment has shaped who I am today in profound ways. My mother was both a nurturing figure and a resilient role model who worked tirelessly to ensure that I had the best opportunities, despite the challenges we faced. From an early age, I learned the importance of hard work, perseverance, and independence. It also gave me a unique perspective on the value of community, as we often relied on extended family, friends, and neighbors for support. Being raised by a single mother taught me the significance of empathy and understanding, as I witnessed firsthand the emotional and financial challenges that came with being a single parent. My mother’s determination to provide for us, even when resources were limited, instilled in me a deep sense of gratitude and responsibility. I saw how mental and emotional well-being could impact the overall stability of a family, and it sparked my interest in psychology and social work. The struggles and triumphs we experienced as a family made me want to help others facing similar hardships, particularly those from marginalized or disadvantaged backgrounds. This background has influenced my decision to pursue a career in psychology, where I hope to work in the social work field. I want to use my knowledge and experiences to help individuals and families facing mental health challenges, financial difficulties, or social injustice. I plan to advocate for those who are often overlooked, especially single parents, children from low-income households, and individuals who feel trapped by systemic barriers. By combining my understanding of psychological well-being with my passion for social change, I want to make a meaningful impact on both a personal and systemic level. To make a positive impact, I plan to focus on promoting mental health awareness and breaking down the stigma that often surrounds mental health struggles. I want to be involved in programs that provide access to psychological services for underserved communities, particularly those who don’t have the resources to seek therapy or counseling. Additionally, I hope to work on initiatives that provide support for single mothers and low-income families, offering them the tools and resources they need to thrive both emotionally and financially. Whether through direct therapy, community outreach, or policy advocacy, my goal is to create a positive change in the lives of individuals and families who face similar struggles to what I experienced growing up. In the future, I see myself working with organizations that provide mental health services and resources for vulnerable populations, helping to break down barriers to access and empowering people to take control of their mental well-being. I also want to be a voice for those who don’t always have the opportunity to be heard, whether in advocating for policies that support mental health or working on community-level initiatives that foster equity and inclusion. Ultimately, my goal is to contribute to a society where everyone, regardless of their background, has the resources and support they need to lead fulfilling lives. My journey from a single-mother household has fueled my desire to help others and to use my skills and experiences to create a world where all individuals have an opportunity to succeed, both emotionally and mentally.

Deciding to pursue a degree in Psychology with the intention of working in the social work field was driven by my passion for understanding human behavior and my desire to make a meaningful impact on people’s lives. Initially, I chose this path because I felt that studying Psychology would provide me with the foundational knowledge needed to help individuals struggling with mental health challenges, trauma, and other life difficulties. The field of social work was appealing because it combines my interest in psychological well-being with a hands-on approach to addressing social issues and advocating for systemic change. As I’ve progressed in my studies, my perspective has evolved, and I’ve come to see the deeper interconnectedness between psychology and social work. At first, I thought I would focus primarily on individual therapy and mental health support. However, through my coursework and exposure to different facets of social work, I have realized that social work isn’t just about addressing individual needs but also about promoting social justice and systemic change. The idea of working not only to support individuals but also to challenge the larger structures that contribute to social inequality has added a broader dimension to my career goals. The skills I’m learning in psychology, such as understanding human behavior, emotions, and mental processes, complement the principles of social work, which emphasize advocacy, empowerment, and community development. This dual approach will allow me to help people not just by providing therapeutic support but also by working to improve their circumstances within the broader societal context. For example, understanding psychological dynamics helps me approach individuals holistically, considering both their personal struggles and the external factors that may be affecting them. I plan to focus on helping underserved communities, particularly individuals and families experiencing mental health issues, those from low-income backgrounds, and marginalized groups. I am especially interested in working with individuals who may not have access to traditional therapy or support systems, offering them resources that promote mental health and well-being. I see myself working in community-based settings, where I can combine direct therapeutic work with advocacy and program development aimed at reducing social disparities. Additionally, I plan to use my background in psychology to advocate for mental health awareness, specifically in communities where access to psychological services is limited. By raising awareness of mental health issues and breaking down the stigma surrounding them, I hope to empower people to seek help when needed and foster healthier communities overall. I am particularly drawn to supporting people who have faced trauma, abuse, or systemic oppression, and I see social work as a powerful platform for facilitating positive change in their lives. In terms of giving back, I plan to be involved in both direct service and community-level work. Whether through providing counseling, case management, or working with local organizations to improve access to mental health resources, I want to contribute to making a real difference. In the long term, I aim to advocate for policies that address mental health disparities, and I hope to work in roles where I can help shape and implement policies that promote equity and well-being for all individuals. Ultimately, my degree in Psychology will serve as a stepping stone to a career in social work where I can help individuals cope with mental health challenges, advocate for social change, and contribute to building a more just and supportive society. Through this path, I hope to empower others, break down barriers to mental health care, and work toward a future where everyone has access to the support and resources they need to thrive.

One of my main goals is to contribute to the broader effort of raising awareness about mental health issues. Mental health remains a stigma in many parts of society, where individuals suffering from mental illnesses are often marginalized or misunderstood. By pursuing a career in psychology, I plan to work on initiatives that promote open conversations about mental health, educate people on the importance of psychological well-being, and reduce harmful stereotypes associated with mental health disorders. This could involve working directly with communities, offering therapy services, or contributing to advocacy groups that challenge the stigma surrounding mental illness. Another area where I hope to make a difference is in expanding access to psychological services for underrepresented and underserved populations. Many communities, especially those in rural or low-income areas, face barriers to accessing quality mental health care. These barriers can be financial, cultural, or simply a lack of resources. As I advance in my career, I would like to advocate for policies that promote mental health care access and work to create programs or services that cater to the unique needs of these populations. Whether through telehealth solutions or community-based therapy programs, I want to ensure that psychological support is available to everyone, regardless of their background or financial situation. Throughout my studies in psychology, I have become increasingly interested in how social factors like inequality, discrimination, and marginalization affect mental health and human behavior. I plan to use my degree to engage in research that explores the connections between social disparities and psychological outcomes. By understanding the psychological effects of systemic issues such as racism, sexism, and economic inequality, I can contribute to developing interventions and policies aimed at addressing these social injustices. This type of research can not only influence public policy but can also offer insights into how to better support individuals facing these challenges. Currently, I am working to make a positive impact on social issues through my involvement in student organizations focused on mental health and diversity. By volunteering at local mental health clinics and engaging in workshops that promote inclusivity, I aim to create environments where individuals feel comfortable discussing their struggles and seeking help. I also engage in online communities and platforms that educate people on psychology and its role in social change, contributing to broader conversations around mental health, self-care, and equity. In the future, my goal is to continue combining my passion for psychology with a drive to address critical societal issues. Whether through direct client work, advocacy, research, or policy development, I believe that psychology holds the key to creating a more understanding and equitable world. Through my studies and eventual career, I hope to inspire positive change, promote mental health, and build a society where every individual has the opportunity to thrive.

“No Mayo!” She Cried: A Sub Shop Saga By Samuel Gilmore (Unofficial Sandwich Poet) In a shop where subs are sliced with flair, And hoagies fly through the sandwich air, I led the crew, all brave and bold, In battles both spicy and ice-cold. The toaster hissed, the slicer roared, Pickles rolled across the floor. We stacked the meats, we grilled with pride, Until a voice rang out from the other side: “This sandwich has mayo!” the lady did glare, As if I’d spilled secrets or tampered with air. “I said NO MAYO!” she said in a huff, Like that one condiment ruined the stuff. I smiled and nodded, no fear in my eyes, (Though inside I screamed, “I just want fries!”) I remade her sub, with extra care, Held the mayo like biohazard rare. But lo! A cry from the back did sound: “We’re out of turkey!” Chaos abound. The sandwich line froze. Eyes full of dread. Would we serve ham? Would hope drop dead? But I took charge “Swap in roast beef! No panic, no chaos, just sandwich relief!” With gloves on my hands and calm in my soul, I juggled a pickle that shot from a roll. We conquered that lunch rush, side by side, With sandwich pride and mustard applied. The storm passed by, the subs were complete, And not one customer saw our defeat. So now when newbies join the crew, I tell them this story (each word is true): “When orders pile high and customers shout, Just hold the mayo and figure it out.”

For as long as I can remember, I’ve been curious about how things work how people think, how systems operate, and how one decision can change the course of someone’s life. This curiosity didn’t always come from textbooks or lectures. More often, it came from real experiences working jobs, tutoring students, and leading teams. My love of learning has never been limited to the classroom. Instead, it has become the lens through which I view challenges, relationships, and my future. One of the most transformative learning experiences for me began outside of school, at Jersey Mike’s, where I started working as a crew member and eventually became a crew leader. It wasn’t a traditional classroom, but I learned lessons in leadership, communication, and responsibility that shaped my character. Managing a team during busy shifts taught me how to remain calm under pressure, how to solve problems in real time, and how to support people from all walks of life. Every interaction was a learning opportunity every mistake, a lesson in humility. In school, my love for learning expanded through my coursework in liberal arts. I found that subjects like English and history helped me make sense of the world around me. Reading about past movements and ideas opened my eyes to how interconnected our struggles and successes are. Meanwhile, math and science taught me discipline and logic. Together, these subjects have given me both empathy and analytical skills qualities that I now apply in every area of my life. One of the most powerful examples of learning shaping my outlook came from my time as a tutor at Charles Rice Learning Center. Working with young students, I saw firsthand how education can be the key to confidence and opportunity. Helping a student finally “get” a math problem or sound out a difficult word reminded me why I value education so deeply. I wasn’t just teaching them; I was learning from them about patience, resilience, and the importance of meeting people where they are. This love of learning continues to fuel my goals. I plan to further my education beyond my associate degree and pursue a field where I can give back possibly in project management, education, or community development. I want to design programs that provide others with the same learning opportunities that changed my life. With certifications in project management and basic life support, and a background in both academic and real-world environments, I feel prepared to make a meaningful impact. I don’t view learning as a phase or a requirement. It’s a lifelong pursuit that shapes how I grow, lead, and connect with others. It has helped me become more thoughtful, more strategic, and more aware of the bigger picture. As I continue on my educational journey, I carry this passion with me not just for my own success, but to inspire and uplift those around me.

Giving Back Through Service and Education It started with a student who struggled with reading. I remember sitting beside him in the quiet corner of the Charles Rice Learning Center, sounding out each word, watching frustration slowly give way to confidence. That moment changed something in me. I realized how powerful even small acts of service could be in someone’s life and how much more I wanted to do for my community. As a tutor at Charles Rice Learning Center, I worked with elementary students in reading and math. Many of these students faced challenges that went beyond academics, from unstable home environments to limited access to resources. My role wasn’t just about helping them with homework it was about building trust, creating a safe space to learn, and encouraging them to believe in themselves. Every session became an opportunity to make a difference. This experience taught me that service isn’t always about grand gestures it can be as simple and powerful as showing up consistently for someone who needs support. In addition to tutoring, I take pride in my leadership role as a Crew Leader at Jersey Mike’s. While not traditionally viewed as a humanitarian act, leading a team in a fast-paced environment has allowed me to mentor young employees and foster a positive workplace culture. I strive to make sure everyone feels respected and valued, and I use my position to promote fairness and teamwork. Whether it’s training a new hire or resolving a conflict with empathy, I aim to lead by example. My educational journey reflects my commitment to growth and service. I’m currently completing an Associate of Science in Liberal Arts at Dallas College and hold certifications in Project Management and Basic Life Support. My long-term goal is to pursue a career in a field that blends community engagement and project leadership possibly in public health or nonprofit management. I want to use my education to develop and lead initiatives that address issues like food insecurity, education gaps, or health disparities in underserved communities. Education is not just a personal achievement; it’s a tool I plan to use to uplift others. My coursework in liberal arts has strengthened my communication, critical thinking, and planning skills all of which are essential for creating sustainable community programs. With my background in leadership, service, and adaptability, I am determined to build bridges between resources and those who need them most. I believe giving back is a lifelong responsibility. Whether it’s through direct service like tutoring, leading with compassion in the workplace, or designing community projects in the future, I am committed to being a force for good. My past experiences have laid the foundation, and my educational goals will ensure that I continue to serve and empower those around me.

Serving my community has always been a priority for me. Through my experiences, especially in ROTC, I have learned the importance of leadership, discipline, and service. These values have shaped my actions and allowed me to create a meaningful impact on those around me. Whether through mentorship, volunteer work, or advocacy, I have strived to make a difference in my community, particularly in areas related to mental health awareness, youth development, and community service. Being part of ROTC was a transformative experience that strengthened my leadership skills and sense of responsibility toward my community. ROTC instilled in me the importance of discipline, teamwork, and selfless service values that I carried into my efforts to support those around me. One of the most impactful aspects of my ROTC experience was mentoring younger cadets. Many students enter ROTC without fully understanding the level of commitment and discipline required. I took it upon myself to guide and support them, helping them build confidence, develop leadership skills, and navigate the challenges of the program. Through this mentorship, I witnessed significant personal growth in those I worked with, and many of them went on to take leadership roles themselves. Additionally, ROTC emphasized community service, which allowed me to engage in initiatives that benefited local neighborhoods. Whether it was organizing food drives, participating in clean-up projects, or assisting veterans, I was able to contribute to causes that strengthened my community. These experiences reinforced my belief in the power of service and the collective impact small actions can have. Beyond ROTC, my passion for psychology and mental health advocacy led me to promote awareness within my community. Mental health, especially among young people, is often overlooked, and I wanted to play a role in breaking the stigma surrounding it. I initiated conversations about mental health among my peers, encouraging openness and understanding. Recognizing that stress and anxiety were common among students, I worked with peers and faculty to introduce stress management workshops and mindfulness activities. These efforts provided students with coping strategies and a supportive space to discuss their struggles. Seeing the positive impact of these initiatives whether it was a student feeling more comfortable seeking help or others simply realizing they were not alone was incredibly rewarding. The actions I have taken in my community have led to tangible changes. Through my leadership in ROTC, I helped shape a culture of mentorship, motivating younger cadets to embrace responsibility and strive for excellence. The community service projects I participated in not only provided immediate relief to those in need but also encouraged others to get involved in acts of service. In mental health advocacy, my efforts contributed to greater awareness and open discussions among students. By creating safe spaces for conversations, I helped normalize seeking help and managing stress in a healthy way. These changes, though small on the surface, have had a ripple effect, inspiring others to continue the work of building a more supportive and informed community. Through ROTC, mentorship, and mental health advocacy, I have been able to make a meaningful impact on my community. My experiences have taught me that leadership is not just about taking charge but also about uplifting others and fostering positive change. As I continue my journey toward becoming a child psychiatrist, I remain committed to serving my community and creating a lasting impact in the field of mental health and beyond.

My Journey Toward Becoming a Child Psychiatrist Introduction From an early age, I have been deeply interested in understanding human behavior, emotions, and the factors that shape our mental well-being. This curiosity led me to pursue a major in psychology, a field that continuously fuels my passion for helping others. My ultimate goal is to attend medical school and specialize in clinical psychiatry, focusing on children’s mental health. Through my education and career, I hope to make a lasting impact by providing compassionate and effective mental health care for young individuals who need it most. Why Psychology? Psychology has always fascinated me because it helps explain why people think, feel, and act the way they do. Mental health is a crucial yet often overlooked aspect of overall well-being, and I believe that early intervention is key to helping individuals lead healthier, more fulfilling lives. Studying psychology has deepened my understanding of cognitive and emotional development, particularly in children, and has strengthened my commitment to becoming a clinical psychiatrist. The Path to Medical School Pursuing medical school is the next critical step in my journey. I want to gain the necessary medical expertise to diagnose and treat psychiatric disorders in children effectively. By combining my psychology background with medical training, I aim to develop a comprehensive approach to mental health care, addressing both biological and psychological factors. My goal is not just to treat mental health conditions but also to advocate for awareness, reduce stigma, and create supportive environments for children and their families. Making a Positive Impact As a future child psychiatrist, I envision making a positive impact in several ways: 1. Early Intervention and Treatment – Many mental health conditions begin in childhood or adolescence, yet they often go undiagnosed. I want to provide early assessments and interventions to prevent long-term struggles for young individuals. 2. Advocacy and Awareness – There is still significant stigma surrounding mental health, especially when it comes to children. I aim to promote mental health awareness in schools, communities, and families, ensuring that children receive the support they need. 3. Holistic and Compassionate Care – Every child’s experience is unique, and I want to take a patient-centered approach that considers their environment, upbringing, and individual struggles. I aspire to create safe spaces where children feel heard and understood. 4. Research and Innovation – I am also interested in contributing to research in child psychiatry, exploring new treatment methods and interventions that can improve mental health care for future generations. Conclusion Mental health plays a critical role in shaping a child’s future, and I am committed to ensuring that young individuals receive the care, guidance, and support they deserve. My journey in psychology and my pursuit of medical school are fueled by my passion for making a tangible difference in children’s lives. By becoming a clinical psychiatrist, I hope to bring hope, healing, and positive change to children struggling with mental health challenges.

Growing up in a low-income household, I faced significant challenges that shaped both my character and my educational journey. My family often struggled to make ends meet, and as the eldest child, I took on responsibilities to support my siblings while balancing schoolwork. There were times when financial stress and limited resources made pursuing my education seem daunting. I recall studying by candlelight during power outages and working part-time jobs to help cover basic expenses. These challenges taught me resilience, time management, and the importance of perseverance. Despite these obstacles, I maintained my focus on academics because I saw education as a pathway to a brighter future. My passion for STEM stems from a deep curiosity about how things work and a desire to

One experience that stands out is when I was working at my job at Jersey Mike's. A regular customer came in one day looking visibly distressed. As I greeted them at the counter, I could tell something was wrong. I asked if they were okay, and they confided that they had just lost their job and were struggling to make ends meet. Seeing their worry and anxiety, I wanted to do what I could to help. I listened compassionately as they shared their situation, offering a sympathetic ear. Then, I told them that I would be happy to provide them with a free meal that day. The customer was so grateful and relieved - you could see the tension leave their body. They thanked me profusely, saying that small gesture meant the world to them in that difficult time. Beyond just the meal, I also took the time to suggest some local resources and organizations that might be able to provide further assistance. I gave them the contact information for a nearby food bank and employment counseling services. The customer left feeling supported and with a renewed sense of hope. In the days that followed, that customer became a regular at our store again. They would often stop by to express their gratitude and share updates on their progress in finding a new job. Seeing their resilience and determination was truly inspiring. That experience taught me the profound impact even a small act of kindness can have on someone in need. By taking the time to listen, offer support, and provide tangible assistance, I was able to make a meaningful difference in that customer's life during a challenging period. It's a reminder that we all have the power to uplift and empower others, simply by being present and extending a helping hand. Similarly, when you've helped your friends with financial needs, I'm sure that support was deeply appreciated and made a real difference in their lives. Being there for loved ones in times of hardship is such an important part of being a good friend and community member. These acts of compassion and generosity, whether at work or in our personal lives, are what help strengthen the fabric of our society. They inspire others to pay it forward and create a ripple effect of kindness. I'm grateful to hear about the ways you have made a positive impact, and I hope you continue to find fulfillment in supporting those around you who are facing difficulties.