I am a student in the accelerated BS/MA program at New York University, pursuing a bachelor's degree in Applied Psychology and a master's in Counseling for Mental Health and Wellness. This year marks my first as a master’s student, a milestone in my journey toward becoming a clinical psychologist. My passion for mental health began at a young age when I noticed many of my peers struggling with depression. I was drawn to understanding how the brain works and how mental health challenges affect people’s daily lives. This curiosity led me to take AP Psychology in high school, where I realized my true interest lay in clinical work. To gain firsthand experience, I became a helpline specialist, and it was incredibly rewarding to be the first point of contact for individuals seeking mental health support. Being able to provide comfort and guidance reaffirmed my commitment to this field. Beyond my academic and professional aspirations, I have a variety of interests that bring me joy. I love writing, whether it’s journaling my thoughts or creatively expressing myself. Though I no longer sing, I still enjoy choral performances and appreciate the beauty of collective musical expression. I also have a passion for hair braiding, scrapbooking, and photography, all creative outlets that allow me to capture and reflect on meaningful moments in my life. One of the greatest obstacles I have faced is living with PTSD after being sexually assaulted three separate times. These traumatic experiences have profoundly impacted my ability to focus in school, often triggering flashbacks at inopportune moments. Studying became difficult, and I found myself in distress more frequently than before. At times, I was even afraid of certain spaces, including school. However, through my training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), I have learned effective ways to counteract my symptoms. Therapy has been an essential tool in my healing process, helping me regain control of my emotions and navigate daily life with more stability. Seeking support outside of therapy has also been instrumental in my healing. Attending Bible studies at the Brooklyn Tabernacle introduced me to another young woman who had experienced sexual violence. Her resilience gave me hope, and our conversations became a valuable source of comfort and inspiration. This experience has permanently shaped how I process trauma, approach relationships, and nurture my faith. The most important lesson I have learned from these experiences is the power of self-compassion and community. My advice to anyone facing similar adversity is to seek help, whether through therapy, support groups, or loved ones. If they believe in a higher power, talking to God can also be a source of strength. Healing is not linear, and it is essential to allow oneself time to grieve and process emotions. Engaging in self-care, such as exercising, going for walks, spending time with friends, and participating in activities that bring joy, is crucial in reclaiming power after trauma. Despite the challenges I have faced, I remain steadfast in my educational and career goals. My experiences have deepened my commitment to mental health advocacy, particularly for underserved communities. I aspire to use my knowledge and training to break down the stigma surrounding mental health in marginalized populations, ensuring that others receive the support and care they deserve.