Success, for me, is the ability to create lasting, positive change in the field of mental health nursing, particularly in underserved communities. It means not only excelling academically and professionally but also using my knowledge and experiences to make a tangible difference in the lives of individuals struggling with mental health challenges. Achieving success entails breaking down stigmas, advocating for vulnerable populations, and fostering environments where mental health is prioritized and supported. My journey toward this vision has been shaped by both personal experiences and professional encounters. Growing up, I demonstrated discipline and dedication, which initially led me to pursue professional football. However, an injury abruptly ended this dream, prompting me to discover a deeper purpose in nursing. While earning my bachelor's degree in nursing at the University of Charleston, I excelled academically and athletically, embracing the opportunity to transition into healthcare. This shift was not merely a career change but a realization that my true purpose lay in making a meaningful impact on others. My early experience as a new graduate working in the intensive care unit (ICU) during the COVID-19 pandemic exposed me to the emotional and physical toll of healthcare. In the ICU, I witnessed the systemic neglect of mental health, particularly in patients with dual diagnoses—mental health disorders coupled with other medical conditions—who were often overlooked or simply sedated. While sedation ensured immediate safety, it failed to address the underlying mental health issues. This prevalent oversight fueled my passion for mental health nursing and underscored the urgent need for advocacy in this area. My commitment to mental health is deeply personal. My older brother suffers from schizoaffective disorder, a condition that has profoundly impacted our family. His experiences have given me firsthand insight into the challenges faced by individuals with severe mental health disorders. This personal connection has strengthened my resolve to combat the stigma surrounding mental health, particularly in communities like Detroit, Michigan, where I grew up. Detroit has long struggled with limited mental health resources, leaving many residents to adopt poor coping strategies such as substance abuse and aggression. These coping mechanisms perpetuate a cycle of trauma and violence, further deteriorating the community. Recognizing these challenges, I am driven to pursue a Master’s degree as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Yale University. This opportunity will provide me with the advanced clinical skills, research capabilities, and leadership training necessary to advocate effectively for underserved populations. My long-term vision is to establish a non-profit organization dedicated to educating the youth in Detroit about mental health, equipping them with effective coping strategies, and fostering emotional resilience. By creating a supportive environment that promotes mental health awareness and education, I aim to break the cycle of multigenerational trauma and inspire a cultural shift towards healthier coping mechanisms and emotional intelligence. This opportunity at Yale University aligns perfectly with my definition of success by equipping me with the tools to address mental health disparities in meaningful ways. Through rigorous training, mentorship, and exposure to innovative mental health initiatives, I will be better prepared to implement sustainable solutions in my community. Even if my efforts help just one child, the ripple effect could lead to significant positive change within the community. This mission reflects my profound commitment to giving back and ensuring that future generations have the resources and support needed to thrive. Ultimately, success is not just about personal achievements but about the impact I leave behind. Through my dedication to mental health advocacy and community outreach, I aspire to create a future where mental health care is accessible, stigma-free, and prioritized for all individuals, regardless of socioeconomic background. This opportunity at Yale University is a crucial step in realizing that vision and achieving the success I strive for.

Overcoming adversity has been a defining theme in my life, shaping my resilience and deepening my faith. Growing up in Detroit, Michigan, I faced significant hardships, including experiencing homelessness. During this challenging time, my faith became my anchor. Not knowing where I would sleep or when my next meal would come created an overwhelming sense of uncertainty, but I refused to let despair take hold. I leaned on prayer, trusting that God had a plan for me beyond my immediate struggles. My faith gave me the strength to push forward, focusing on education and personal growth as a way out of my circumstances. Eventually, I secured stable housing and pursued my academic aspirations, proving to myself that faith and perseverance could lead to transformation. Another defining moment in my life came during college when I lost my childhood best friend, Derron, in a tragic car accident. His sudden passing shattered me, plunging me into a deep depression. The weight of grief made it difficult to concentrate on school and maintain motivation. I questioned everything, including my purpose and path in life. It was during this time of darkness that my faith became my refuge. I turned to scripture, prayer, and spiritual guidance to navigate the pain. I found comfort in the belief that Derron’s life had meaning and that I could honor his memory by continuing to strive for excellence. Faith gave me the strength to move forward, helping me transform my grief into motivation rather than allowing it to consume me. Despite these struggles, I remained steadfast in my pursuit of a career in nursing. My undergraduate years at the University of Charleston were marked by both academic and athletic achievements, but also by moments of deep introspection. The transition from aspiring professional athlete to healthcare professional was not an easy one, but my faith helped me see that my true calling lay in serving others. As a new graduate working in the intensive care unit (ICU) during the COVID-19 pandemic, I encountered yet another challenge—witnessing firsthand the neglect of mental health in critical care settings. I saw patients struggling with both physical and mental health conditions, yet their psychological needs were often overlooked. My personal experiences with mental health, coupled with my professional observations, fueled my determination to become a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My faith has been the foundation upon which I have built my resilience. It has guided me through homelessness, the loss of my best friend, and the trials of working in a high-intensity medical environment. These experiences have not only strengthened my character but have also reinforced my commitment to serving others. Now, as I pursue my Master’s degree at Yale University, I am driven by a mission to give back to communities like Detroit, where mental health resources remain scarce. My ultimate goal is to establish a non-profit organization dedicated to educating youth about mental health and providing them with the tools to develop healthy coping mechanisms. Through faith, perseverance, and a deep commitment to making a difference, I aim to break cycles of trauma and foster resilience in future generations. Faith has been my guiding light through every storm, and I hope to use my experiences to illuminate the path for others in need.

My journey toward a career in mental health nursing has been profoundly influenced by both personal experiences and professional encounters, solidifying my passion for this field. Growing up in Detroit, Michigan, I learned discipline and dedication, traits that initially drove me to pursue professional football. However, an injury abruptly ended this dream, leading me to discover a deeper purpose in nursing. During my undergraduate years at the University of Charleston, I excelled both academically and athletically, earning a bachelor's degree in nursing. This shift from athletics to healthcare was not merely a career change but a realization that my true purpose lay in making a meaningful impact on others. As a new graduate working in the intensive care unit (ICU) during the COVID-19 pandemic, I was exposed to the emotional and physical toll of healthcare. It was in this environment that I encountered the systemic neglect of mental health within healthcare settings. In the ICU, I frequently witnessed patients with dual diagnoses—mental health disorders coupled with other medical conditions—being overlooked or simply sedated. While sedation provided immediate safety, it failed to address the underlying mental health issues. This prevalent oversight fueled my passion for mental health nursing and highlighted the urgent need to advocate for these vulnerable patients. I became determined to address mental health disparities, particularly within underserved minority communities. My commitment to mental health is deeply personal. My older brother suffers from schizoaffective disorder, a condition that has profoundly impacted our family. His experiences have provided me with firsthand insight into the challenges faced by individuals with severe mental health disorders. This personal connection has strengthened my resolve to combat the stigma surrounding mental health, especially in communities like Detroit, where resources are limited. Many residents have adopted poor coping strategies such as substance abuse and aggression, perpetuating a cycle of trauma and violence. Recognizing these challenges, I am driven to pursue a Master’s degree as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Yale University. My long-term vision is to establish a non-profit organization dedicated to educating the youth in Detroit about mental health, equipping them with effective coping strategies, and fostering emotional resilience. By creating a supportive environment that promotes mental health awareness and education, I aim to break the cycle of multigenerational trauma. My objective is not only to improve the lives of individuals but also to inspire a cultural shift towards healthier coping mechanisms and emotional intelligence. Even if my efforts help just one child, the ripple effect could lead to significant positive change within the community. This mission reflects my profound commitment to giving back and ensuring that future generations have the tools and support needed to thrive. My experiences with mental health—both personal and professional—have profoundly shaped my career aspirations. I am eager to leverage my nursing background and personal insights to make a meaningful impact in the field of mental health, particularly in underserved communities. By addressing the root causes of mental health disparities and advocating for vulnerable populations, I hope to contribute to a future where mental health is prioritized and accessible to all.

My journey toward a career in mental health nursing has been profoundly influenced by both personal experiences and professional encounters, solidifying my passion for this field. Growing up in Detroit, Michigan, I learned discipline and dedication, traits that initially drove me to pursue professional football. However, an injury abruptly ended this dream, leading me to discover a deeper purpose in nursing. During my undergraduate years at the University of Charleston, I excelled both academically and athletically, earning a bachelor's degree in nursing. This shift from athletics to healthcare was not merely a career change but a realization that my true purpose lay in making a meaningful impact on others. As a new graduate working in the intensive care unit (ICU) during the COVID-19 pandemic, I was exposed to the emotional and physical toll of healthcare. It was in this environment that I encountered the systemic neglect of mental health within healthcare settings. In the ICU, I frequently witnessed patients with dual diagnoses—mental health disorders coupled with other medical conditions—being overlooked or simply sedated. While sedation provided immediate safety, it failed to address the underlying mental health issues. This prevalent oversight fueled my passion for mental health nursing and highlighted the urgent need to advocate for these vulnerable patients. I became determined to address mental health disparities, particularly within underserved minority communities. My commitment to mental health is deeply personal. My older brother suffers from schizoaffective disorder, a condition that has profoundly impacted our family. His experiences have provided me with firsthand insight into the challenges faced by individuals with severe mental health disorders. This personal connection has strengthened my resolve to combat the stigma surrounding mental health, especially in communities like Detroit, where resources are limited. Many residents have adopted poor coping strategies such as substance abuse and aggression, perpetuating a cycle of trauma and violence. Recognizing these challenges, I am driven to pursue a Master’s degree as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Yale University. My long-term vision is to establish a non-profit organization dedicated to educating the youth in Detroit about mental health, equipping them with effective coping strategies, and fostering emotional resilience. By creating a supportive environment that promotes mental health awareness and education, I aim to break the cycle of multigenerational trauma. My objective is not only to improve the lives of individuals but also to inspire a cultural shift towards healthier coping mechanisms and emotional intelligence. Even if my efforts help just one child, the ripple effect could lead to significant positive change within the community. This mission reflects my profound commitment to giving back and ensuring that future generations have the tools and support needed to thrive. My experiences with mental health—both personal and professional—have profoundly shaped my career aspirations. I am eager to leverage my nursing background and personal insights to make a meaningful impact in the field of mental health, particularly in underserved communities. By addressing the root causes of mental health disparities and advocating for vulnerable populations, I hope to contribute to a future where mental health is prioritized and accessible to all.

My journey toward a career in mental health nursing has been profoundly influenced by both personal experiences and professional encounters, solidifying my passion for this field. Growing up in Detroit, Michigan, I learned discipline and dedication, traits that initially drove me to pursue professional football. However, an injury abruptly ended this dream, leading me to discover a deeper purpose in nursing. During my undergraduate years at the University of Charleston, I excelled both academically and athletically, earning a bachelor's degree in nursing. This shift from athletics to healthcare was not merely a career change but a realization that my true purpose lay in making a meaningful impact on others. As a new graduate working in the intensive care unit (ICU) during the COVID-19 pandemic, I was exposed to the emotional and physical toll of healthcare. It was in this environment that I encountered the systemic neglect of mental health within healthcare settings. In the ICU, I frequently witnessed patients with dual diagnoses—mental health disorders coupled with other medical conditions—being overlooked or simply sedated. While sedation provided immediate safety, it failed to address the underlying mental health issues. This prevalent oversight fueled my passion for mental health nursing and highlighted the urgent need to advocate for these vulnerable patients. I became determined to address mental health disparities, particularly within underserved minority communities. My commitment to mental health is deeply personal. My older brother suffers from schizoaffective disorder, a condition that has profoundly impacted our family. His experiences have provided me with firsthand insight into the challenges faced by individuals with severe mental health disorders. This personal connection has strengthened my resolve to combat the stigma surrounding mental health, especially in communities like Detroit, where resources are limited. Many residents have adopted poor coping strategies such as substance abuse and aggression, perpetuating a cycle of trauma and violence. Recognizing these challenges, I am driven to pursue a Master’s degree as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Yale University. My long-term vision is to establish a non-profit organization dedicated to educating the youth in Detroit about mental health, equipping them with effective coping strategies, and fostering emotional resilience. By creating a supportive environment that promotes mental health awareness and education, I aim to break the cycle of multigenerational trauma. My objective is not only to improve the lives of individuals but also to inspire a cultural shift towards healthier coping mechanisms and emotional intelligence. Even if my efforts help just one child, the ripple effect could lead to significant positive change within the community. This mission reflects my profound commitment to giving back and ensuring that future generations have the tools and support needed to thrive. My experiences with mental health—both personal and professional—have profoundly shaped my career aspirations. I am eager to leverage my nursing background and personal insights to make a meaningful impact in the field of mental health, particularly in underserved communities. By addressing the root causes of mental health disparities and advocating for vulnerable populations, I hope to contribute to a future where mental health is prioritized and accessible to all.

My decision to pursue a degree in nursing stems from a profound blend of personal experiences and professional encounters that have shaped my passion for this field. Initially, my journey began with a focus on professional football, driven by discipline and dedication. However, an injury abruptly ended this path, leading me to discover a deeper purpose in nursing, where I could make a meaningful impact on others. During my undergraduate years at the University of Charleston, I excelled academically and earned a bachelor's degree in nursing. The shift from athletics to healthcare was more than a career change; it was a realization that my true calling lay in addressing critical health issues. My experience as a new graduate working in the intensive care unit (ICU) during the COVID-19 pandemic exposed me to the emotional and physical demands of healthcare. This period revealed a significant gap in the treatment of mental health, particularly for patients with dual diagnoses—those experiencing both mental health disorders and other medical conditions. In the ICU, I often observed these patients being overlooked or sedated without addressing the root causes of their mental health issues. This experience ignited my passion for mental health nursing and underscored the urgent need for advocacy and better resources for vulnerable populations. I became determined to focus on mental health disparities, especially within underserved minority communities, where the need for comprehensive care is most acute. My commitment to mental health is deeply personal. My older brother suffers from schizoaffective disorder, a condition that has profoundly impacted our family. His experiences have provided me with invaluable insight into the challenges faced by individuals with severe mental health disorders. This personal connection has fueled my resolve to combat the stigma surrounding mental health and to create meaningful change, particularly in my hometown of Detroit, Michigan. Detroit has long struggled with limited mental health resources, leading many residents to adopt poor coping strategies such as substance abuse and aggression. These coping mechanisms have perpetuated a cycle of trauma and violence, further eroding the community. Recognizing these challenges, I am driven to pursue a Master's degree as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Yale University. My goal is to establish a non-profit organization dedicated to educating the youth in Detroit about mental health, equipping them with effective coping strategies, and fostering emotional resilience. By creating a supportive environment that promotes mental health awareness and education, I aim to break the cycle of multigenerational trauma. My objective is to not only improve individual lives but also inspire a broader cultural shift towards healthier coping mechanisms and emotional intelligence. Even if my efforts help just one child, the ripple effect could lead to significant positive change within the community. This mission reflects my deep commitment to giving back and ensuring future generations have the tools and support needed to thrive. My choice to pursue a degree in nursing is rooted in personal experiences and a desire to address critical health disparities. I am eager to leverage my nursing background and personal insights to create a lasting impact, advocating for vulnerable populations and contributing to a future where mental health is prioritized and accessible to all.

My decision to pursue a career in mental health nursing stems from a profound blend of personal experiences and professional encounters that have shaped my passion for this field. Initially, my journey began with a focus on professional football, driven by discipline and dedication. However, an injury abruptly ended this path, leading me to discover a deeper purpose in nursing, where I could make a meaningful impact on others. During my undergraduate years at the University of Charleston, I excelled academically and earned a bachelor's degree in nursing. My experience as a new graduate working in the intensive care unit (ICU) during the COVID-19 pandemic exposed me to the emotional and physical demands of healthcare. This period revealed a significant gap in the treatment of mental health. In the ICU, I often observed these patients being overlooked or sedated without addressing the root causes of their mental health issues. This experience ignited my passion for mental health nursing and underscored the urgent need for advocacy and better resources for vulnerable populations. I became determined to focus on mental health disparities, especially within underserved minority communities, where the need for comprehensive care is most acute. My commitment to mental health is deeply personal. My older brother suffers from schizoaffective disorder, a condition that has profoundly impacted our family. His experiences have provided me with invaluable insight into the challenges faced by individuals with severe mental health disorders. This personal connection has fueled my resolve to combat the stigma surrounding mental health and to create meaningful change, particularly in my hometown of Detroit, Michigan. Detroit has long struggled with limited mental health resources, leading many residents to adopt poor coping strategies such as substance abuse and aggression. These coping mechanisms have perpetuated a cycle of trauma and violence, further eroding the community. Recognizing these challenges, I am driven to pursue a Master's degree as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Yale University. My goal is to establish a non-profit organization dedicated to educating the youth in Detroit about mental health, equipping them with effective coping strategies, and fostering emotional resilience. By creating a supportive environment that promotes mental health awareness and education, I aim to break the cycle of multigenerational trauma. My objective is to not only improve individual lives but also inspire a broader cultural shift towards healthier coping mechanisms and emotional intelligence. Even if my efforts help just one child, the ripple effect could lead to significant positive change within the community. This mission reflects my deep commitment to giving back and ensuring future generations have the tools and support needed to thrive. My choice to pursue mental health nursing is rooted in personal experiences and a desire to address critical health disparities. I am eager to leverage my nursing background and personal insights to create a lasting impact, advocating for vulnerable populations and contributing to a future where mental health is prioritized and accessible to all.

My journey toward a career in mental health nursing has been profoundly influenced by both personal experiences and professional encounters, solidifying my passion for this field. Growing up, I demonstrated discipline and dedication, which initially drove me to pursue professional football. However, an injury abruptly ended this dream, leading me to discover a deeper purpose in nursing. During my undergraduate years at the University of Charleston, I excelled both academically and athletically, earning a bachelor's degree in nursing. This shift from athletics to healthcare was not merely a career change but a realization that my true purpose lay in making a meaningful impact on others. My experience as a new graduate working in the intensive care unit (ICU) during the COVID-19 pandemic exposed me to the emotional and physical toll of healthcare. It was here that I encountered the systemic neglect of mental health within healthcare settings. In the ICU, I frequently witnessed patients with dual diagnoses—mental health disorders coupled with other medical conditions—being overlooked or simply sedated. While sedation provided immediate safety, it failed to address the underlying mental health issues. This prevalent oversight fueled my passion for mental health nursing and highlighted the urgent need to advocate for these vulnerable patients. I became determined to address mental health disparities, particularly within underserved minority communities. My commitment to mental health is deeply personal. My older brother suffers from schizoaffective disorder, a condition that has profoundly impacted our family. His experiences have provided me with firsthand insight into the challenges faced by individuals with severe mental health disorders. This personal connection has strengthened my resolve to combat the stigma surrounding mental health, especially in communities like Detroit, Michigan, where I grew up. Detroit has long struggled with limited mental health resources, leading many residents to adopt poor coping strategies such as substance abuse and aggression. These coping mechanisms have perpetuated a cycle of trauma and violence, further deteriorating the community. Recognizing these challenges, I am driven to pursue a Master's degree as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Yale University. My long-term vision is to establish a non-profit organization dedicated to educating the youth in Detroit about mental health, equipping them with effective coping strategies, and fostering emotional resilience. By creating a supportive environment that promotes mental health awareness and education, I aim to break the cycle of multigenerational trauma. My objective is not only to improve the lives of individuals but also to inspire a cultural shift towards healthier coping mechanisms and emotional intelligence. Even if my efforts help just one child, the ripple effect could lead to significant positive change within the community. This mission reflects my profound commitment to giving back and ensuring that future generations have the tools and support needed to thrive. My experiences with mental health—both personal and professional—have profoundly shaped my career aspirations. I am eager to leverage my nursing background and personal insights to make a meaningful impact in the field of mental health, particularly in underserved communities. By addressing the root causes of mental health disparities and advocating for vulnerable populations, I hope to contribute to a future where mental health is prioritized and accessible to all.

I am currently pursuing my goal of becoming a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), driven by a deep commitment to addressing health disparities and the mental health crisis in underserved minority communities. My journey to this point has been shaped by personal experiences, an unwavering desire to make a difference, and a series of pivotal moments that clarified my path toward nursing. Growing up in Detroit, Michigan, I witnessed firsthand how a lack of mental health resources and poor coping strategies impacted my community. Many individuals, are grappling with untreated mental health disorders, turned to substance use or expressed their pain through aggression, perpetuating cycles of trauma and hardship. Leaving Detroit to pursue higher education exposed me to environments where mental health resources were more accessible, which highlighted the disparities in care and inspired me to take action. Initially, I was unsure of the best way to address these issues. However, my “aha” moment came while working in a clinical setting, where I observed how compassionate and well-informed mental health care could transform lives. I saw patients regain hope and stability with the right tools and support. I realized that nursing offered a unique opportunity to combine clinical expertise with the ability to build meaningful connections with patients and deliver culturally competent care. This realization solidified my decision to pursue a career in psychiatric nursing. Returning to school to advance my education has been both challenging and rewarding, but my experiences have only deepened my commitment to this path. I am eager to earn my master’s degree as a PMHNP at Yale University, where I can further develop the skills needed to serve my community effectively. My ultimate goal is to create a nonprofit organization that empowers the youth of Detroit by providing education on mental health, implementing coping strategies, and offering trauma-informed care. I also plan to collaborate with local schools, community centers, and health organizations to expand access to mental health resources and foster lasting change. While I understand that the challenges in Detroit extend far beyond what one person can address, I am motivated to make a difference—one life at a time. I believe that by breaking cycles of trauma and fostering resilience, I can contribute to a healthier and more hopeful future for my community. This journey has been shaped by perseverance and purpose, and I am excited to continue turning my vision into reality.

Growing up in Detroit, Michigan, in a low-income household taught me resilience and perseverance in the face of challenges. Witnessing my parent's unwavering determination to provide for our family instilled in me the importance of hard work and resourcefulness. At the same time, I saw how systemic inequities and a lack of mental health resources contributed to cycles of hardship in my community, inspiring me to break those cycles for others. These life experiences have shaped my passion for addressing health disparities in underserved communities, particularly around mental health and substance use disorders. I am committed to combating the stigma surrounding mental health by creating safe spaces for open dialogue, promoting mental health literacy, and providing trauma-informed care. Currently, I am pursuing my goal of becoming a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) at Yale University. By advancing my education and gaining clinical experience. I also volunteer in community outreach programs, working with vulnerable populations to address mental health challenges and advocate for accessible care. My ultimate aim is to establish a nonprofit organization in Detroit that empowers youth with the tools to process emotions and adopt healthy coping strategies. By combining evidence-based approaches with culturally sensitive care, I hope to reduce the reliance on substances as a coping mechanism and build resilience within the community. Through my dedication and lived experience, I aspire to break multigenerational cycles of trauma and foster a healthier, more hopeful future for Detroit.

I am deeply committed to addressing health disparities within underserved minority communities, particularly by combating the stigma surrounding mental health. Society often associates vulnerability with weakness—a misconception that must be deconditioned to create meaningful change. Growing up in Detroit, Michigan, I witnessed firsthand the challenges my community faces due to poor coping strategies passed down through generations and a lack of accessible resources. Many individuals in Detroit struggle to manage their mental health, often turning to substance use as a misguided solution or expressing their pain through aggression, which can lead to violence. These patterns have profoundly impacted the community, perpetuating cycles of trauma and hardship. Leaving my hometown opened my eyes to the depth of these issues and inspired me to take action. I am eager to pursue a Master’s degree as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) at Yale University. My ultimate goal is to establish a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering the youth of Detroit with the tools they need to better understand and care for their mental health. As a PMHNP, I will focus on developing community-based programs that prioritize early intervention and prevention. These programs will teach evidence-based coping strategies, provide trauma-informed care, and deliver mental health education tailored to the unique cultural and social dynamics of Detroit. I aim to create safe spaces where individuals can discuss their struggles openly, access resources, and feel empowered to seek help without stigma. Additionally, I plan to implement initiatives targeting substance use disorders, which are closely intertwined with untreated mental health conditions. Through medication-assisted treatment (MAT) for substance abuse, individual and group therapy, and harm reduction strategies, I hope to reduce the prevalence of addiction in the community. Collaborating with schools, community centers, and local organizations will help extend these services to populations most in need, particularly vulnerable youth. While I recognize that the challenges in Detroit extend far beyond what one person can address, I am committed to making a difference—one life at a time. Saving even one child from the cycle of trauma would be deeply meaningful, as I believe that child could inspire hope and lead by example, ultimately influencing others. I hold high aspirations of breaking multigenerational cycles of trauma and fostering a healthier, more resilient future for the people of Detroit. By dedicating myself to this cause, I hope to ignite positive change that will ripple through the current generation and beyond.

Everyone’s journey is unique in its own way and you must learn to embrace YOUR journey. Being a non-traditional student has shaped my career and has pushed me beyond the limitations that I had set for myself. I was the first person in my family to graduate from high school and college. I am currently pursuing a Masters degree at Yale University. This would not have been possible if it wasn't for my family’s unwavering support and love. My father moved from Chicago to Detroit by himself at the age of 13 and my mother had her first child at 16 years old.  I never faulted my parents for not obtaining an education because they made the best decisions based on the options they had. My 3 older brothers did not graduate high school, but they have always held me accountable for my actions. They ensured that I stayed on the right path by not allowing our environment to weigh in on my decision-making. I am proud to say that I have become the first person in my family to graduate from high school and college. I earned my Bachelor of Science in Nursing while being a student-athlete. Unfortunately, I graduated during the COVID-19 pandemic and was not able to pursue my dreams of playing football due to the world being shut down. Instead, I utilized my nursing degree and decided to work in the intensive care unit to help fight against the pandemic. The ICU has shaped the foundation for my nursing career. It has taught me that you can do everything in your power, but there is no guarantee of an outcome going in your favor. Most importantly, it has taught me life skills such as leadership, patience, persistence, and advocate for those that are in need.  In hindsight, the pandemic has ultimately worked in my favor. It has allowed me to develop nursing skills and find my true passion besides floor nursing. Being a non-traditional student I feel that I am prepared to pursue my goal of becoming a Psych Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Upon graduating, I aim to make a change in underserved communities by developing a non-profit organization that will contribute to helping individuals who are suffering from trauma and/or substance abuse. For the past 4 years, I have been gaining experience as a nurse and working with some of the best physicians/practitioners in the area. The knowledge and experience that I’ve gained will directly translate into my studies as well as my career upon graduating.  Since graduating from college this has inspired both of my parents to earn their General Education Diploma (GED) and I could not be more proud of them. Other than making an impact on my community and other underserved communities. I want to be a pioneer for my family and create a new standard for the next generation, with hopes of them surpassing my success and creating an abundance of opportunities for our lineage.

I have reached a point where I can no longer ignore my calling as a nurse. I now understand that things that are meant to be will enter your life with little to no confusion. At a young age I discovered my talent for playing football, that same childhood dream eventually came to fruition after many years of discipline and dedication. Right when I began to live out my childhood dream as a professional athlete that very dream was cut short due to an injury. During my undergraduate years, I was fortunate enough to excel on the field and in the classroom. I was able to earn my bachelor's degree in nursing from the University of Charleston because I felt that my purpose was greater than football. I was recently realigned with my passion for nursing. After working in the intensive care unit during the pandemic as a new graduate within 2 years I experienced burnout early in my career. My experience in the ICU has taught me that healthcare professionals often overlook patients with mental health disorders. Patients who displayed clinical signs of mental health disorders were usually ignored or sedated. Yes, sedation keeps the patient safe throughout the shift, but it does not treat the underlying problem. Unfortunately, patients' conditions were dismissed because of the lack of awareness from healthcare providers. This contributed to my passion for mental health nursing and it gave me the courage to advocate for patients that were not able to advocate for themselves. I would like to become and create resources within underserved minority communities by fighting against health disparities. I aim to help change the stigma mental health has in underserved communities. Society mistakenly associates vulnerability with weakness. This way of thinking is unrealistic and must be deconditioned from our minds to make a change. It was not until I left my hometown that I realized how damaged and misled the city of Detroit, Michigan has become. This is primarily due to poor coping strategies adopted from the previous generation along with not having resources within the environment. Sadly, many people within the community of Detroit have decided to cope with their mental health disorders by relying on substances with the belief that it would be a solution for their problems. Unfortunately, others expressed their feelings with aggression resulting in violence. These decisions have altered the community of Detroit for the worse and at this moment there are not many resources available to address these concerns. I am eager to wholeheartedly pursue my Master's degree as a Psych Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Yale University. Upon earning my degree I would love to pour back into my community by creating a non-profit organization that will help the youth develop a better understanding of their mental health. I plan on doing so by implementing coping strategies and also educating patients on the proper ways of processing and identifying their emotions. Detroit will require a lot more work than I will be able to provide. As long as I can contribute and do my part then I will be grateful for the opportunity. Saving one child out of thousands will mean the world to me because not only will it give hope to this current generation, but I anticipate that the same child will lead by example and influence others. I have high hopes of breaking multigenerational trauma with the expectations of bettering the current generation as well as generations to come.

I have reached a point where I can no longer ignore my calling as a nurse. I now understand that things that are meant to be will enter your life with little to no confusion. At a young age I discovered my talent for playing football, that same childhood dream eventually came to fruition after many years of discipline and dedication. Right when I began to live out my childhood dream as a professional athlete that very dream was cut short due to an injury. During my undergraduate years, I was fortunate enough to excel on the field and in the classroom. I was able to earn my bachelor's degree in nursing from the University of Charleston because I felt that my purpose was greater than football. I was recently realigned with my passion for nursing. After working in the intensive care unit during the pandemic as a new graduate within 2 years I experienced burnout early in my career. My experience in the ICU has taught me that healthcare professionals often overlook patients with mental health disorders. Patients who displayed clinical signs of mental health disorders were usually ignored or sedated. Yes, sedation keeps the patient safe throughout the shift, but it does not treat the underlying problem. Unfortunately, patients' conditions were dismissed because of the lack of awareness from healthcare providers. This contributed to my passion for mental health nursing and it gave me the courage to advocate for patients that were not able to advocate for themselves. I would like to become and create resources within underserved minority communities by fighting against health disparities. I aim to help change the stigma mental health has in underserved communities. Society mistakenly associates vulnerability with weakness. This way of thinking is unrealistic and must be deconditioned from our minds to make a change. It was not until I left my hometown that I realized how damaged and misled the city of Detroit, Michigan has become. This is primarily due to poor coping strategies adopted from the previous generation along with not having resources within the environment. Sadly, many people within the community of Detroit have decided to cope with their mental health disorders by relying on substances with the belief that it would be a solution for their problems. Unfortunately, others expressed their feelings with aggression resulting in violence. These decisions have altered the community of Detroit for the worse and at this moment there are not many resources available to address these concerns. I am eager to wholeheartedly pursue my Master's degree as a Psych Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Yale University. Upon earning my degree I would love to pour back into my community by creating a non-profit organization that will help the youth develop a better understanding of their mental health. I plan on doing so by implementing coping strategies and also educating patients on the proper ways of processing and identifying their emotions. Detroit will require a lot more work than I will be able to provide. As long as I can contribute and do my part then I will be grateful for the opportunity. Saving one child out of thousands will mean the world to me because not only will it give hope to this current generation, but I anticipate that the same child will lead by example and influence others. I have high hopes of breaking multigenerational trauma with the expectations of bettering the current generation as well as generations to come.

I have reached a point where I can no longer ignore my calling as a nurse. I now understand that things that are meant to be will enter your life with little to no confusion. At a young age I discovered my talent for playing football, that same childhood dream eventually came to fruition after many years of discipline and dedication. Right when I began to live out my childhood dream as a professional athlete that very dream was cut short due to an injury. During my undergraduate years, I was fortunate enough to excel on the field and in the classroom. I was able to earn my bachelor's degree in nursing from the University of Charleston because I felt that my purpose was greater than football. I was recently realigned with my passion for nursing. After working in the intensive care unit during the pandemic as a new graduate within 2 years I experienced burnout early in my career. My experience in the ICU has taught me that healthcare professionals often overlook patients with mental health disorders. Patients who displayed clinical signs of mental health disorders were usually ignored or sedated. Yes, sedation keeps the patient safe throughout the shift, but it does not treat the underlying problem. Unfortunately, patients' conditions were dismissed because of the lack of awareness from healthcare providers. This contributed to my passion for mental health nursing and it gave me the courage to advocate for patients that were not able to advocate for themselves. I would like to become and create resources within underserved minority communities by fighting against health disparities. I aim to help change the stigma mental health has in underserved communities. Society mistakenly associates vulnerability with weakness. This way of thinking is unrealistic and must be deconditioned from our minds to make a change. It was not until I left my hometown that I realized how damaged and misled the city of Detroit, Michigan has become. This is primarily due to poor coping strategies adopted from the previous generation along with not having resources within the environment. Sadly, many people within the community of Detroit have decided to cope with their mental health disorders by relying on substances with the belief that it would be a solution for their problems. Unfortunately, others expressed their feelings with aggression resulting in violence. These decisions have altered the community of Detroit for the worse and at this moment there are not many resources available to address these concerns. I am eager to wholeheartedly pursue my Master's degree as a Psych Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Yale University. Upon earning my degree I would love to pour back into my community by creating a non-profit organization that will help the youth develop a better understanding of their mental health. I plan on doing so by implementing coping strategies and also educating patients on the proper ways of processing and identifying their emotions. Detroit will require a lot more work than I will be able to provide. As long as I can contribute and do my part then I will be grateful for the opportunity. Saving one child out of thousands will mean the world to me because not only will it give hope to this current generation, but I anticipate that the same child will lead by example and influence others. I have high hopes of breaking multigenerational trauma with the expectations of bettering the current generation as well as generations to come.

I was recently realigned with my passion for nursing. After working in the intensive care unit during the pandemic as a new graduate within 2 years I experienced burnout early in my career. My experience in the ICU has taught me that healthcare professionals often overlook patients with mental health disorders. Patients who displayed clinical signs of mental health disorders were usually ignored or sedated. Yes, sedation keeps the patient safe throughout the shift, but it does not treat the underlying problem. Unfortunately, patients' conditions were dismissed because of the lack of awareness from healthcare providers. This contributed to my passion for mental health nursing and it gave me the courage to advocate for patients that were not able to advocate for themselves. I would like to become and create resources within underserved minority communities by fighting against health disparities. I aim to help change the stigma mental health has in underserved communities. Society mistakenly associates vulnerability with weakness. This way of thinking is unrealistic and must be deconditioned from our minds to make a change. It was not until I left my hometown that I realized how damaged and misled the city of Detroit, Michigan has become. This is primarily due to poor coping strategies adopted from the previous generation along with not having resources within the environment. Sadly, many people within the community of Detroit have decided to cope with their mental health disorders by relying on substances with the belief that it would be a solution for their problems. Unfortunately, others expressed their feelings with aggression resulting in violence. These decisions have altered the community of Detroit for the worse and at this moment there are not many resources available to address these concerns. I am eager to wholeheartedly pursue my Master's degree as a Psych Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Yale University. Upon earning my degree I would love to pour back into my community by creating a non-profit organization that will help the youth develop a better understanding of their mental health. I plan on doing so by implementing coping strategies and also educating patients on the proper ways of processing and identifying their emotions. I have high hopes of breaking multigenerational trauma with the expectations of bettering the current generation as well as generations to come.

I have reached a point where I can no longer ignore my calling as a nurse. I now understand that things that are meant to be will enter your life with little to no confusion. At a young age I discovered my talent for playing football, that same childhood dream eventually came to fruition after many years of discipline and dedication. Right when I began to live out my childhood dream as a professional athlete that very dream was cut short due to an injury. During my undergraduate years, I was fortunate enough to excel on the field and in the classroom. I was able to earn my bachelor's degree in nursing from the University of Charleston because I felt that my purpose was greater than football. I was recently realigned with my passion for nursing. After working in the intensive care unit during the pandemic as a new graduate within 2 years I experienced burnout early in my career. My experience in the ICU has taught me that healthcare professionals often overlook patients with mental health disorders. Patients who displayed clinical signs of mental health disorders were usually ignored or sedated. Yes, sedation keeps the patient safe throughout the shift, but it does not treat the underlying problem. Unfortunately, patients' conditions were dismissed because of the lack of awareness from healthcare providers. This contributed to my passion for mental health nursing and it gave me the courage to advocate for patients that were not able to advocate for themselves. I would like to become and create resources within underserved minority communities by fighting against health disparities. I aim to help change the stigma mental health has in underserved communities. Society mistakenly associates vulnerability with weakness. This way of thinking is unrealistic and must be deconditioned from our minds to make a change. It was not until I left my hometown that I realized how damaged and misled the city of Detroit, Michigan has become. This is primarily due to poor coping strategies adopted from the previous generation along with not having resources within the environment. Sadly, many people within the community of Detroit have decided to cope with their mental health disorders by relying on substances with the belief that it would be a solution for their problems. Unfortunately, others expressed their feelings with aggression resulting in violence. These decisions have altered the community of Detroit for the worse and at this moment there are not many resources available to address these concerns.  I am eager to wholeheartedly pursue my Master's degree as a Psych Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Yale University. Upon earning my degree I would love to pour back into my community by creating a non-profit organization that will help the youth develop a better understanding of their mental health. I plan on doing so by implementing coping strategies and also educating patients on the proper ways of processing and identifying their emotions. Detroit will require a lot more work than I will be able to provide. As long as I can contribute and do my part then I will be grateful for the opportunity. Saving one child out of thousands will mean the world to me because not only will it give hope to this current generation, but I anticipate that the same child will lead by example and influence others. I have high hopes of breaking multigenerational trauma with the expectations of bettering the current generation as well as generations to come.