Hi! My name is Tanijah Heard, and I’m a second-year Honors Pre-Nursing student passionate about mental health and equity. In high school, I took AP, IB, and college courses that helped me grow and prepare for the challenges of a nursing degree, from writing academic papers to taking rigorous exams that would mentally prepare me for the future exams necessary to become a registered nurse. My passion for mental health advocacy comes from both personal experience and my role as a student ambassador. As a former Wellness Club president, I spent my high school years working to break the stigma around mental health by sharing resources across the county. While in college, I hope to learn how I can help create a more supportive and equitable future for mental health, especially in marginalized communities. Alongside my studies, I volunteer and mentor in my community through the organization “Mentoring for H.E.R,” where I can give back in many ways, from giving away books and clothing to mentoring young girls on various topics. In due time, I wish to become a child and adolescent psychiatric nurse practitioner, where I can provide inclusive care for everyone, regardless of background, without fear of judgment. Thank you for considering my application!