Mental health struggles can profoundly shape an individual’s life, influencing their emotions, decisions, and relationships. For me, this journey began silently, unknowingly, back in middle school. It was a period marked by transitions—moving between four schools at the time and dealing with the news of my beloved great aunt’s cancer diagnosis. She was more than family; she was a confidante, a friend, someone who made me feel valued. Losing her devastated me, plunging me into a state of melancholy I couldn’t articulate as a child. High school only compounded these feelings. I found myself in a new environment, isolated and unsure, grappling with insecurities that had plagued me since childhood. Taunts about my appearance and weight echoed in my mind, amplifying my sense of alienation. Despite this, I discovered solace in creative pursuits and sports—outlets that briefly shielded me from the turmoil within. However, life’s challenges persisted. During my sophomore year, appendicitis and subsequent surgery were physical reminders of vulnerability. Simultaneously, the illness progression of my great aunt, my pillar of support, shook me to core. Her passing marked a turning point, a deepening of my mental anguish that I struggled to confront. Amidst these trials, attempts to integrate socially felt futile, leaving me adrift in a sea of loneliness and self-doubt. Navigating these turbulent years, I battled in silence, concealing my turmoil from those around me. The weight of unexpressed grief and emotional turmoil became unbearable, leading to two attempts to end my life—a desperate plea for respite from the relentless pain. These moments, though unsuccessful, underscored the depth of my suffering and the absence of a support network capable of comprehending my anguish. Post-high school life brought a mix of hope and further hardship. despite the emergence of friendships and supportive relationships, the specter of mental health challenges persisted. The news of another great aunt and uncles’ illnesses and subsequent losses in the same month in 2018 further tested my resilience. Grief became a constant companion, its intensity ebbing and flowing unpredictably, a persistent reminder of the fragility of life and the weight of unprocessed sorrow. Today, amidst the ongoing battle with mental health, I find solace in the love and camaraderie of those around me. Their presence is a beacon of light in moments of darkness, offering hope and reassurance that I am not alone in this journey. Every day is a testament to my resilience—a commitment to honoring the promises I made to my family and myself. Their memory fuels my determination, propelling me forward even when the burdens of the past threaten to overwhelm. In conclusion, my journey through mental health challenges and the profound impact of suicide attempts have shaped my perspective on life, resilience, and the importance of genuine human connection. It is a journey marked by pain and loss but also resilience and hope—a testament to enduring strength of the human spirit in the face of adversity. Through it all, I have learned that reaching out for support is not a sign of weakness but a courageous step towards healing and recovery.

As a young Black woman navigating through life, I have encountered and triumphed over various forms of adversity, shaped by the enduring stereotypes and challenges faced by African Americans, especially women, in our society. Stereotypes have often cast a long shadow over the African American community painting us as monolithic and limiting our potential. As a black woman, I have confronted the pervasive stereotypes that portray us as either overly aggressive and loud or hyper-sexualized and submissive. Those stereotypes not only undermine our individuality but also create barriers to opportunities in education, employment, and social interactions. Overcoming these stereotypes has required resilience and determination, as I strive to redefine these narratives through my actions and achievements. Beyond stereotypes, African Americans contend with systemic challenges such as institutional racism, economic disparities, and unequal access to resources. The legacy of historical injustices, from slavery to segregation, continues to impact our communities today, manifesting in higher rates of poverty, incarceration, and limited access to quality healthcare and education. These systematic barriers make the journey to success and empowerment more difficult for many African Americans, necessitating perseverance and community support to break through these cycles of disadvantage. Looking forward, I am committed to ever aging my experiences and education to uplift and empower my community. Education, I believe, is a cornerstone of empowerment. By pursuing higher education and acquiring skills in fields such as law, public policy, or social work, I aim to equip myself with the tools needed to advocate for systemic change. Through mentorship and community outreach programs, I aspire to inspire and support black women to pursue their dreams despite the odds stacked up against them. Representation matters, and I intend to be a visible role model who demonstrates that success is achievable regardless of societal expectations or limitations. Furthermore, addressing economic disparities within the African American community is crucial. As an entrepreneur or through involvement in nonprofit organizations focused on economic empowerment, I envision creating pathways to financial stability and entrepreneurship for individuals and families in undeserved communities. Access to capital, business mentorship, and job training programs can significantly impact economic mobility and foster sustainable growth within our neighborhoods. Ultimately, my goal is to contribute to a more inclusive society where every individual, regardless of race or gender, has the opportunity to thrive. By challenging stereotypes, advocating for systemic change, and empowering the next generation, I hope to leave a lasting impact that transcends boundaries and inspires positive transformation within my community and beyond. together, we can build a future where diversity is celebrated, opportunities are equitable, and every voice is heard.

Education is often said that it is the key to a brighter future, and my own journey through academia has solidified this belief and profound ways. Raised by a single mother with the unwavering support of an extended family—our tightly-knit village— I’ve come to understand firsthand the transformative power of education and its immense value. In my family, higher education was not the norm. My mother, a remarkable woman who juggled parenting, work, and school with unwavering determination, stands out as the sole college graduate. Her achievement was not just a personal triumph but a beacon of possibility for our family. Growing up, I yearned for more examples like hers—individuals who defied odds and pursued knowledge despite challenges. As the eldest in my generation, I’ve shouldered the responsibility of paving a path not only for myself but also for my younger family members. Education, to me, is not merely about acquiring knowledge and skills; it’s about becoming an example and a source of guidance for those who come after me. I’ve witnessed firsthand how education can break cycles of limited opportunities and open doors to possibilities previously unimaginable. Through my academic journey, I’ve embraced the challenges and triumphs that come with learning. Each class, each assignment, and each lecture has been a stepping stone toward personal growth and empowerment. Education has equipped me with critical thinking abilities, problem-solving skills, and a broader perspective on the world. It has instilled in me a sense of resilience—to persevere through setbacks and to celebrate achievements, no matter how small. Moreover, education has expanded my horizons beyond the confines of my immediate surroundings. It has exposed me to diverse ideas, cultures, and perspectives, fostering empathy and understanding. This broader worldview has empowered me to engage meaningfully with issues affecting our society and to contribute positively to my community. Beyond personal growth, education has also provided me with tangible opportunities for career advancement and economic stability. It has opened doors to internships, networking opportunities, and mentorship programs that have been instrumental in shaping my professional aspirations. Most importantly, education has given me the confidence to dream big and to pursue those dreams with determination. It has taught me that with perseverance and dedication, anything is achievable. As I continue my educational journey, I am committed to honoring the sacrifices of those who came before me and to inspiring future generations within my family and community. In conclusion, education is not just a means to an end; it is a lifelong pursuit of knowledge, empowerment, and personal fulfillment. It has brought immeasurable value to my life by shaping who I am today and who I aspire to be tomorrow—a beacon of hope and possibility for those who follow in my footsteps.