As a BIPOC living in a predominately white community, I have seen and experienced firsthand racial issues in health care. The lack of information and movements in studies for minorities and people with disabilities is discouraging. I hope to offer a voice of support and advocacy as a racially diverse female who has struggled with accessibility in healthcare. After learning I needed a therapist, months were spent searching for a female healthcare worker of color. I was stranded in a sea of mental hardships simply because I longed to have a professional who'd have experienced a life similar to mine. I hope to contribute to a safe and accommodating space for youth and adults alike. I believe by gaining a college education I can grow skills and eventually be able to create an online platform where personal connections can be made and professional advice can be given. Through this mental health care can be shared regardless of location or social status. Through my current passion project, "Dare To Change" I have been able to make a difference in individuals and create a safe place for communication. I believe that as I promote destigmatization and collaborate with professionals, mental health care can become an affordable and accessible option for all who choose it.

In my Junior year English class focusing on American Literature, we were able to devote a few weeks to reading The Great Gatsby. The Great Gatsby written by F. Scott Fitzgerald delves into the compelling exploration of the American Dream and its innermost complexities. The novel depicts themes of wealth, social status, and disillusionment. Fitzgerald describes individual personalities and experiences through literary devices such as imagery, alliteration, and personification. Everyone should read The Great Gatsby to advance their knowledge of analyzing complex text and relating it to current life. The book also serves lessons of discovering how to not let materialistic belongings cloud true relationships and trust. Jordan Baker lets the promises of fame and societal rank turn her into a cynical and self-centered character in the book. Ms. Baker changes her core morals, and in doing so loses a potential relationship with, the main character, Nick Carraway. Jay Gatsby commits over a decade of his life to, Daisy Buchanan, a past lover. He loses his sense of self as his love for her turns into an obsession; additionally, he loses his morals as he breaks the strict laws of prohibition. In the end, the reader learns that for most of the novel Gatsby never truly loved Daisy but saw her as a prize to win, or a life-long accomplishment to complete. Beyond, Fitzgerald's printed merits, The Great Gatsby holds cultural significance. Discussions such as Tom's infamous quote about the 'Rise of the Colored Empires' show the realities of racial hardships in the 20s. The author's ability to paint a visual description of Gatsby's lavish parties, character frivolous lifestyles, and societal importance transports the reader into the roaring mid-1900s. Everyone should read The Great Gatsby to acquire a deeper understanding of generational difficulties and the truth behind the American Dream. I am grateful The Great Gatsby is still taught in high school classes because I wouldn't have read it otherwise.

As a minority in a predominantly white community, I have experienced my fair share of isolation and searching for ways to overcome trials that seem to separate me from my peers. I spent my sophomore year focused on myself. I truly believed that each of my needs should come before everyone else's. I'd spend Friday nights hanging out in a local spot knowing that there, I would receive the validation and popularity I thought I deserved. As the school year came to an end, so did the friendships I had created. At the time, dealing with the people in my life leaving were some of the hardest feelings I had experienced. Friends I had counted on being in my life forever suddenly wanted nothing to do with me. As summer passed I fell into a depression. I developed an eating disorder and my anxiety increased. Once my junior started, it felt like I had become a shell of my once outgoing energetic shell. I searched every day, at school and home looking for hope in life. I remember the day I walked into my junior year honors English class and was met with a positive atmosphere my teacher had created. Little did I know this teacher would grow to be my greatest advocate and friend for the next year. Ms. Moore served me with grace and compassion as she listened to what I once was and who I felt I had become. She taught me how to relive a life with inclusion, opportunity, and growth. Slowly with her help, I began to feel worthy again; worthy of love, help, and second chances. Around late September the N-word slur was sent by a student to a school class group chat. I was in my English class when I saw it and rushed out in a mess of tears, as I was reminded of just how big of a problem racism is in my community. Ms. Moore joined my parents as they spoke to the school administration, addressing the issues and looking for long-term solutions to prevent in-school racism in the future. Shortly after the experience with the guidance of Ms. Moore, I created a project called "Dare to Change" that speaks on how to end stigmas around mental health and racism. I look forward to submitting my application to Meredith College in North Carolina which Ms. Moore attended. I hope to foster a community with values centered around peace, humility, and love, all lessons my teacher was able to help me learn. While during my junior year, I lost short-term "popularity", but I was able to gain a friendship and lifelong values.