An amazing Disney crossover episode would be between Wizards of Waverly Place and That's So Raven (original series). In this episode, Raven goes to New York in hopes of going to New York's Fashion Week and decides to stop by at the Russo's shop for lunch. While there, Raven is enjoying lunch with Chelsea when she suddenly has a vision of a fire bursting in the kitchen due to the stove being on and unattended with. The entire shop goes up in flames. In the moment that she comes back from her vision, she tells Chelsea what she saw and tries to run back to the kitchen and stop the event, but she is stopped by Justin who says she can't go back there. She tries explaining that she wants to speak to the chef and needs to go back there, but he doesn't allow it. As they argue, she takes notice of the unattended food on the stove catching on fire and directs Justin's attention to it. As Justin and Raven run back to stop the fire, Alex is in the wizard family room in the freezer and smells smoke. She dashes out to the human world and sees the huge fire building in the kitchen and how Justin and a random woman are trying to stop it using human methods. To prevent further damage, Alex pulls out her wand and casts a spell to reverse the fire. Raven sees this whole thing happen and the only thing she can say is, "OH SNAP!" The rest of the Russo squad run into the shop (other customers ran out when they started to smell smoke) and see how Raven is shocked and staring at Alex's wand and they all freeze. It's at this time that Jerry tells Alex that she needs to perform a spell to knock Raven out. Raven screams and tries to run away, but quickly gets knocked out. The Russo's close up the shop and take Raven upstairs to the living room couch. Justin blames Alex for showcasing magic in front of a human and Alex argues that it was an emergency. The family bickers until they come to the agreement that they will need to erase Raven's memories. However, Raven woke up from the arguing and only heard about how they will erase her memories and springs up to try and run away. Once again, magic stops her. She begs for them to not erase her memories and she doesn't know what that heck they are, but its okay because she'll act like she never saw anything. Jerry calms Raven down and explains that she shouldn't have seen what she saw and promises that they only want to erase her memories of today and not her whole life. Reluctant, Raven agrees so long as they promise to let her go afterwards. Alex tries to perform a spell to erase her memories, but it doesn't work. Justin tries next and it still doesn't work. Confused, the family doesn't understand why nothing is working. It's at this time that Justin remembers his first encounter and asks Raven why she was so adamant on going back to the kitchen at the time of the fire starting. She was too far away to see anything and no smoke was created yet. After a silence, Raven explains to them how she saw it in a vision and was trying to stop it. It's at this point we find out that Raven might not actually be human. The plot of the episode is finding out where the Baxter visions come from.

At the age of twelve, my life took a devastating turn when my mother murdered my father, leading to her imprisonment. The traumatic event left me orphaned and shattered, forcing me to grapple with adult responsibilities long before I was ready. By the time I reached seventeen, I was living on my own, working to support myself, and trying to find a semblance of normalcy in a world turned upside down. Yet, it was at the age of eighteen that I embarked on a path that would only add to my burdens – I became addicted to vaping. In the midst of my struggles, I had a group of friends who seemed to genuinely care about my well-being. They noticed my battle with depression and anxiety, stemming from the harrowing events of my childhood and the crushing weight of self-sufficiency. They believed that vaping could provide some relief, calming my anxiety attacks and making life more bearable. At that vulnerable point in my life, their advice seemed like a lifeline, and I chose to follow it. Vaping became my refuge from the relentless hardships I faced daily. It offered me a temporary escape, a fleeting sense of calm amidst the storm. But this illusion of relief was fleeting, and the habit swiftly transformed into an addiction. Vaping soon took a firm grip on my life, dictating my daily routine. It was the first thing I reached for in the morning, even before brushing my teeth, and the last thing I indulged in at night before closing my eyes. I had unknowingly replaced one crutch with another, trading my traumatic past for a new addiction. The turning point came when I was twenty. Despite my dependence on vaping, my life wasn't getting any better. I realized that I had to make significant changes if I wanted to regain control over my life. The struggle to break free from vaping was difficult. It was a battle against both the physical cravings and the emotional reliance I had developed. The journey was filled with moments of doubt and temptation, but I persevered. Giving up vaping was not just about kicking a habit; it was about reclaiming my life. It required immense strength, resilience, and a profound realization that my mental and emotional health should not be contingent on a substance. This journey wasn't just about quitting vaping; it was about self-discovery, growth, and finding healthier coping mechanisms to navigate the challenges life had thrown at me. As time went on, I began to notice the positive changes in my life. My emotions became more manageable, and my mental health improved. I regained control over my own narrative, proving to myself that I was not defined by my past or my addiction. Breaking free from vaping marked a significant milestone in my journey towards recovery. I now make it a point to share my story with those who seek my advice, especially when it comes to vaping. I want to emphasize that vaping is more than just a seemingly harmless habit. It has the potential to consume your life, affecting not only your physical health but also your mental well-being. It can easily become a crutch, a way to avoid confronting life's challenges head-on.

Growing up as a first-generation Afghan American woman in an abusive home, my early life was a battleground. Yet, it was in the halls of higher education that I discovered the power to transform my life and beliefs about the world. My childhood was marked by adversity. The emotional and physical scars of an abusive home gave me a dark outlook on life, but they also ignited a determination to rise above my circumstances. The vision of a brighter future led me to college. However, the path to education was far from easy. As a first-generation student, I had to navigate a maze of obstacles, from financial struggles to cultural expectations that often seemed at odds with my aspirations. The real test came when I found myself supporting myself and living independently at seventeen years old. The weight of responsibility was very heavy at times, and the dream of a college degree and better life felt distant. It was when I was on the brink of homelessness that I decide to take a year off from my studies. This period of uncertainty and hardship was where my beliefs about life were reshaped. My college journey was transformative, not just academically, but also in how I viewed life itself. First and foremost, college became a sanctuary—a place where I could escape the turmoil of my past and envision a brighter future. It was a realm of possibilities, where the only limitations were those I placed on myself. During my time off of school, I learned to stand on my own two feet, relying on my wits and resourcefulness to make ends meet. This newfound strength wasn't just about surviving; it was about thriving. It reinforced my belief that adversity, though painful, can lead to individual growth. College instilled in me a deep appreciation for education and the opportunities that can come with it. It wasn't just a means to an end; it was a source of empowerment and enlightenment. My cultural heritage played an huge role in shaping my beliefs about life. It's a tapestry that weaves resilience, determination, and pride, and these values were further reinforced through my college experience. Being a first-generation Afghan American woman in a college environment made me realize that my unique background was not a barrier but a source of strength. Since my parents were only in my life for a short period of time, I wasn't given much guidance on how to create a stable life for myself. However, I see all of the struggles that came with a lack of parental support as hardships that left me no choice but to grow up quickly. I see it as an opportunity to learn the harsh realities of life at an early age which gave me a head start compared to my peers in one aspect. Although I used to feel resentful of my upbringing, my perspective has changed as I've gotten older because I know see the obstacles of life as an opportunity to learn how to overcome difficulties.

In the vast landscape of reality television, where an abundance of shows vies for viewers' attention, "Love is Blind" shines as a guilty pleasure and an ideal escape from the rigors of daily life. This dating reality series offers an addictive blend of messy love stories, binge-worthy episodes, and lively discussions about the contestants. Moreover, its lack of a complex plot makes it easy to dip in and out, ensuring that you never miss any crucial storyline. Here's why "Love is Blind" is the perfect show to watch. First and foremost, "Love is Blind" is captivating because of its messy and unconventional approach to love stories. The premise itself is intriguing: singles date and get engaged without ever setting eyes on each other. This unique concept drives the narrative of the show, resulting in an engaging exploration of love and emotional connection that transcends the boundaries of physical appearances. The unpredictability and awkwardness of these blind dates are a source of entertainment and relatability for viewers. The relationships on the show are far from the typical love stories one might encounter in reality TV. The contestants' journeys are filled with drama, unexpected twists, and roller-coaster emotions. Whether it's watching a whirlwind romance unfold or witnessing a disastrous connection, "Love is Blind" offers a front-row seat to the complexities of modern dating. Another compelling aspect of the show is its binge-worthy nature. With episodes that leave you hanging at the end, it's all too easy to say, "Just one more!" and find yourself glued to your screen for hours on end. The show's addictive quality makes it a fantastic choice for those seeking to unwind, indulge in some guilty pleasure viewing, and temporarily escape the real world. One of the joys of "Love is Blind" is the animated discussions it sparks among viewers. Debating which contestant is the most endearing or, on the contrary, who deserves the "trash" label, is a common pastime among fans. The diverse personalities, backgrounds, and dating experiences of the contestants offer endless fodder for spirited debates. The show's characters become talking points, bonding viewers and creating a sense of shared experience. Furthermore, "Love is Blind" is the perfect escape from reality because of its simplicity. Unlike many other series with intricate plots and character arcs, this show is refreshingly straightforward. While other series might require you to watch every episode meticulously to keep up with the storyline, "Love is Blind" is more forgiving. If you skip an episode or jump ahead, you can easily pick up where you left off without feeling like you've missed a significant plot development. In a world filled with complex narratives, "Love is Blind" is a breath of fresh air. Its simplicity allows for a carefree viewing experience, making it the perfect choice when you want to unwind and let go of the weight of reality. It offers precisely what many seek in their entertainment—a temporary escape. In conclusion, "Love is Blind" is an enticing and addictive show to watch, offering viewers the perfect blend of messy love stories, binge-worthiness, and lively discussion material. Its unconventional approach to dating provides a fresh perspective on love and connection. Additionally, its simplicity and lack of a complex plot make it a seamless escape from the pressures of everyday life. So, if you're looking for an entertaining and engaging escape that doesn't require intense commitment, "Love is Blind" is an excellent choice that delivers it all.

In the darkest and most harrowing chapters of my life, K-pop, and specifically the iconic group SHINee, emerged as an unexpected beacon of light and hope. The trauma of my father's murder and my mother's subsequent imprisonment when I was just twelve years old marked the beginning of a dark journey filled with pain, fear, and despair. However, SHINee's music and the memory of Jonghyun, a member of the group who tragically passed away, provided solace and inspiration when I needed it most. SHINee, a South Korean boy band renowned for their outstanding talent and infectious music, became my sanctuary. Their harmonious melodies, electrifying performances, and charismatic presence transported me to a world far removed from my own. I found in their music an escape from the harsh realities of my life. It was a temporary escape, a momentary relief from the constant turmoil and the anguish of my circumstances. The passing of Jonghyun was a seismic blow, not just to SHINee fans, but to the K-pop community at large. His untimely death sent shockwaves around the world. To me, it felt like the safety net that SHINee had provided, the source of comfort and strength that I had relied on, had been irrevocably torn apart. I was devastated, and the impact of his loss reverberated deeply within me. However, in the midst of this grief, I found a renewed sense of purpose. Jonghyun's tragic end served as a poignant reminder of the importance of seeking help and the consequences of suffering in silence. It became evident that he had been struggling with his own mental health battles, and it was a realization that resonated with my own journey toward healing. I was determined to honor his memory by advocating for mental health awareness and by finding the strength to keep moving forward, just as he would have wanted his fans to do. SHINee's music continued to be my refuge. Their songs carried messages of love, resilience, and hope, and they became a source of inspiration as I navigated the complexities of my life. Every lyric, every beat, and every performance provided a sense of belonging and comfort, reminding me that I was not alone in my struggles. K-pop as a genre, and SHINee as one of its leaders, brings immeasurable joy to fans worldwide. The infectious melodies, captivating choreography, and the undeniable charisma of the artists have the power to uplift spirits and unite diverse communities. Their music transcends language barriers, offering a universal language of happiness and togetherness. K-pop is a testament to the extraordinary power of music. It offers an escape from the rigors of daily life, providing moments of pure joy and elation. For me, it was the salve for my wounded soul, the medicine that eased my emotional pain, and the lifeline that helped me persevere. In conclusion, SHINee and K-pop played a profound role in my life, helping me navigate the most challenging and traumatic moments I have ever faced. Jonghyun's tragic passing, while heart-wrenching, ignited a fire within me to advocate for mental health awareness and to continue my own journey towards healing. The joy and solace that K-pop provides is immeasurable, and I am eternally grateful for the refuge it offered in my darkest hours. K-pop is not just music; it is a lifeline, an escape, and a source of boundless happiness that brings light to the lives of countless fans around the world.

In our delicate human existence, mental health is a vital thread that weaves the fabric of our well-being. It shapes our thoughts, emotions, and actions, influencing the quality of our lives in profound ways. Over a year and a half ago, I experienced a mental breakdown that left me falling apart. This essay delves into the significance of mental health, my personal journey, and the steps I've taken to safeguard and nurture my own well-being. Mental health is a fundamental aspect of human life. It affects our relationships, productivity, physical health, and overall quality of life. It shapes the lens through which we view the world, influencing our perception and interpretation of the myriad experiences that life presents. Without stable mental health, the challenges and stressors of daily life can become overwhelming, as they did for me. My own journey towards understanding the value of mental health and the importance of seeking help began a year and a half ago when I faced a harrowing crisis. The weight of cultural expectations, the pressures of academic pursuits, and the immense responsibility of financially supporting myself from the tender age of seventeen pushed me to the brink. Despite the severity of this crisis, I initially grappled with seeking professional help. The stigma surrounding mental health that is engrained in my culture cast a long shadow over my willingness to embrace therapy. Fear of judgment and the shame associated with reaching out for assistance compelled me to quit therapy several times. The journey towards healing is often filled with obstacles, and in my case, the biggest obstacle was my own reluctance to break free from the chains of cultural stigma. It was during the climax of my mental breakdown that I realized the true significance of mental health. The turmoil within me, coupled with the overwhelming distress I experienced, showed me that I could no longer afford to ignore the importance of nurturing my mental health. I took a decisive step in seeking help once and for all. I embarked on a mission to find a therapist who not only understood my cultural background but also the unique social circumstances that had contributed to my struggles. This was a significant turning point in my journey. By taking this initiative, I had not only acknowledged the importance of mental health but also committed to its cultivation. Over the past ten months, I have been attending therapy with a therapist who resonates with my experiences and empathizes with my unique challenges. The transformation has been profound. The road to healing is not without its twists and turns, but therapy has provided me with invaluable tools to navigate this world and its obstacles. Today, I am witness to significant improvements in my mental health. I have learned to manage stress, cope with the weight of cultural expectations, and harness the strength to pursue my academic and personal goals. In conclusion, mental health is an invaluable treasure that we must protect, nurture, and prioritize. My journey, while marked by personal hardships and cultural stigma, underscores the significance of seeking help and embracing therapy. It is a testament to the transformative power of therapy, and the progress I have made over the past ten months is a testament to the importance of mental health in shaping our lives for the better. I now stand as a living example of how, with the right support and a commitment to healing, one can emerge from the depths of despair and thrive once more.

As I stand on the precipice of my journey to Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, I find myself contemplating the house where I might ultimately belong. Though the path ahead is uncertain, I believe that Slytherin is the house that would embrace and nurture the traits that define who I am. Slytherin House is known for its values of ambition, cunningness, leadership, and resourcefulness. These traits are often misconstrued as negative or associated solely with a thirst for power, but they encompass much more than that. They represent a desire to succeed and to make the most of one's potential, which resonates deeply within me. Ambition is the cornerstone of Slytherin, and it drives me to excel in every aspect of life. I set high goals for myself, constantly striving for self-improvement and achievement. Whether in academics or personal pursuits, I constantly look for ways to learn and grow as an individual. I believe that Slytherin's nurturing environment would provide the ideal platform for me to channel this ambition constructively. Cunning, another Slytherin trait, reflects my ability to think outside the box and find unconventional solutions to problems. I take pride in my ability to adapt to different situations and find solutions to problems that I have minimal experience solving. In my view, this is a strength, as it enables me to overcome obstacles and find opportunities where others may see only roadblocks. Leadership is an attribute I've cultivated over the years, and I believe it aligns with the core values of Slytherin. I have a knack for taking charge, making decisions, and guiding others when necessary. It's not about dominating, but rather about inspiring and motivating those around me to work together towards common goals. The leadership qualities intrinsic to Slytherin House would complement and enhance my natural inclinations. Resourcefulness, the final quality embraced by Slytherin, is something I've honed through experiences that required quick thinking and adaptability. I believe in making the most of the tools at hand, being efficient in my problem-solving, and, in doing so, achieving the best possible results. Slytherin's emphasis on resourcefulness mirrors my approach to life. Furthermore, Slytherin's storied history and notable alumni, such as Severus Snape and Regulus Black, exhibit the depth and diversity of the house. It's a place where students can find not just success, but a sense of belonging and identity. I am drawn to the rich heritage and traditions of Slytherin, and I believe that by becoming a part of this house, I would be joining a community of like-minded individuals who value the same qualities that have guided me thus far. However, it's essential to note that I do not view Slytherin as a house exclusively for those who seek power or control. Rather, I see it as a house that champions individuality, resilience, and the strength to overcome adversity. My ambition is not driven by a lust for power but by a desire to make a positive impact on the world and to leave a lasting legacy. In conclusion, my affinity for ambition, cunning, leadership, and resourcefulness, coupled with a deep appreciation for the history and values of Slytherin House, leads me to believe that I would find my true home among the silver and green. The Sorting Hat will ultimately make the final decision, but I am ready to embrace the values and traditions of Slytherin, eager to contribute to the house's legacy, and prepared to face the unique challenges and adventures that lie ahead on this exciting journey through the world of magic.

Through unwavering determination and a steadfast belief in the power of education, I have conquered numerous obstacles on my journey to higher education. Growing up, I was raised in a culturally abusive home that left scars on my psyche. My mother, a woman who was a victim of domestic violence, was charged with my father's murder when I was just twelve years old. This traumatic incident shattered the fragile semblance of normalcy that had clung to my childhood. In the aftermath of my father's tragic death, my family faced the harsh judgment of our community. They shunned us, and I witnessed my siblings and I being ostracized, as if we were complicit in our mother's actions. The bonds that once held our family together were irrevocably severed, leaving us fragmented and isolated. By the time I turned seventeen, I was living alone, trying to navigate a world that seemed intent on swallowing me whole. The thought of pursuing higher education seemed like an unattainable dream, and there were many days when it seemed as if it would be easier to give up. Faced with the grim prospect of homelessness, I decided to take a year off from college. It was a moment of self-preservation, a necessary pause in the pursuit of my dreams. During this time, I battled despair and uncertainty, but I refused to let them define my future. My unwavering determination, the same resilience that had carried me through years of hardship, became my guiding light. I knew that I couldn't give up, not just for my sake but also for my future. The fire to continue my education, to reclaim my dreams, burned fiercely within me. Today, I stand so close to a remarkable achievement. I am just a year away from completing my sonography program. It has been a challenging journey, one filled with obstacles and sacrifices, but it has also been a testament to my inner strength and tenacity. As I look ahead to the future, I have a clear purpose in mind. I am determined to be a guiding light for others who have faced adversity, who battle inner demons, and who struggle to find hope. I want to be a mentor for the younger women in my current community, inspiring them to continue forward, find independence, and discover their self-worth. I want to show them that it is possible to overcome even the most formidable hardships, to rise above the circumstances that threaten to drag them down. My life's purpose transcends my personal ambitions; it's about being an example for those who feel lost and defeated. I want to be a living testament to the resilience of the human spirit, to demonstrate that, no matter how dark the past, there is always a path forward to a brighter future. In sharing my journey, I aim to inspire hope and empower others to persevere, to overcome, and to find the strength within themselves to achieve their dreams, no matter how distant they may seem.

I wasn’t supposed to go to college. Given the circumstances I was given in life, more people were believing that I would become another inmate in the criminal system than there were people that believed that I could make something out of myself. I was fully prepared to live up to twenty-one and then I could say I’d lived long enough and could end my struggle in this world. The only reason my life didn’t take a wrong turn was because of the librarian at my high school. When I was in high school, I spent most of my time in the library. I was a very reserved girl because of my past traumas and found peace when I was by myself with a book. Even though I never knew any of the librarian’s names, we all recognized each other because of how frequently I went into the library during my lunches. It was during my junior year that one of them asked me if I was ready for the upcoming SATs. I told her I wasn’t going to college because I couldn’t afford it and then proceeded to go to class. Without knowing my name, she was able to find me based on the book I checked out and notified the career counselor of what I said. The career counselor proceeded to pull me out of class and kept me in her office for the rest of the day to explain to me all the different resources I could take advantage of to go to college. She explained to me how there were fee waivers for low-income students that needed to take the SATs, work-study programs in college that could help me financially, financial aid offered based on income, BOG fee waivers that lowered costs for classes, student loans, scholarships, grants, etc. The list was endless. My brain was overloaded with information I was never given. However, the best thing I got out of the day was knowing that not everyone had money saved up for college and because of that, many students took a longer and more difficult road to achieve their dreams. I am now twenty-four years old and in my Sonography program. I was blessed to receive financial aid as well as utilizing the BOG fee waiver while I attended community college. I did have to take a year off school because I was facing threats of homelessness, but I never gave up on my goal to get an education. To lessen the financial burden, I worked overtime for two years and lived frugally to save up enough to pay half of my program out of pocket while saving money to live off since my work hours were dramatically reduced once I was accepted. I will have around 18 thousand dollars from student debt once I complete school and have been applying for scholarships to help lessen the load. During my school holidays, I work extra hours to lessen my student debt. I’m proud to say that I only have my student debt to worry about because I’ve paid off all my previous debt before adding more and worrying about interest rates. Dave Ramsey has been a huge inspiration to me, and his books and podcasts helped me maintain a healthy relationship with money. While there have been talks about possible student loan forgiveness, I am not counting on it to pay off my debts. My method to financial success is to pay off my debt as quickly as possible so the interest won’t accrue.

I am working to address the issue of women's rights and educational resources within the Afghan community. The biggest issue I've experienced in my community is that many Afghan women are not given the resources or safe space to speak about what is on their minds. The sad reality for most of the newer generation of women is that they must deal with the misogyny displayed by the men as well as fight the internalized misogyny of the older women. I work to address the double standards and overall hypocrisy of how women are viewed in our culture. I do not have a patriarch that I respond to anymore and was given the freedom to go to school and live alone without a man. The circumstances of my life come from losing my parents at a young age and while it did bring me hardships when I was growing up, I learned quickly that it was a blessing in disguise. I can think for myself and enjoy the basic privileges I have as a human while my younger female cousins still struggle with the cultural mindsets of the men in our family and older women as well. While I am seen as combative by my uncles, male cousins, and older female relatives, I know that my younger female relatives appreciate me. I argue with their fathers without dragging them into the discussion because I know what type of repercussions can come from speaking against the patriarch. While my arguments are what make me disliked by most of my family, my education is another sore subject for them. When I lost my parents, there were many people in my family that said that I would amount to nothing. They said that I would only survive in this world if a man took pity on me and married me to give me a stable life. While it hurt to hear that from family (who needs enemies with a family like mine?), it also encouraged me to succeed and continue forward in life. It frustrates my uncles that I have an AA in Social Science as well as an AS in General Science, and I was just accepted into my sonography program. It also hurts them to hear that I am financially stable, responsible, have a great credit score, and just about any other positive aspect of my life. It shows them in front of their eyes what they always want to deny. Women can succeed and their daughters have the potential to do well without a man. The young women in my community always ask me for school advice and how they can find stability without support. Some of them are scared to branch out beyond their parents and I don't blame them at all. However, others are beginning to realize their potential and are working to have a life better than the ones they have been set up for. While I could list everything I argue about with the male figures in my life, it would go past the word count. I know that my presence shakes the foundation of their beliefs for what a woman is worth and it shows the young women in my community that we are more valuable than what we were engrained to believe. Once I finish school, I plan to continue and broaden my reach for women that need guidance on how to gain independence and find success by themselves.

My name is Zahra Ayobi and I am a recent graduate of Cosumnes River College and earned my AA in Social Sciences as well as my AS in General Science. I have recently been accepted into the Diagnostic Medical Sonography program at the Sacramento Ultrasound Institute. During the pandemic, I became fascinated with STEM after being introduced to different medical professionals at my job. The knowledge and dedication I've witnessed among medical professionals are inspiring and I enjoy the constant changes in medicine. It was my chemistry class that specifically piqued my interest after I completed a project on the chemical composition of opioids. I remember asking a colleague of mine that specializes in addiction and he was able to break down the composition based on memory. It was very impressive to see how much time and dedication he puts into his field. While my original career choice was social work, I've recently found passion in women's issues and one that I want to address is women's education on their health. I was raised in an Afghan household in America and I've witnessed first-hand the lack of knowledge women are given about their bodies in culturally conservative households. My dream is to develop a nonprofit organization that provides resources and education to bring light to women's issues in the healthcare system. As I currently work at several Kaiser Permanente facilities, I'm able to see how there is a disconnect within the system that makes it more difficult for women to receive the proper care they deserve. It is especially difficult for women of color to receive the care they need and as a woman of color myself, I can empathize with women who feel as if their concerns are not taken seriously. Outside of bringing awareness and advocating for changes in our healthcare system, I also have a passion for working with disadvantaged youth. My experiences as a child with a parent in the prison system were not the best because I was able to see how we don't have a proper system to help children experiencing such trauma. I want to speak to the youth and offer the guidance I wish someone gave me when I was a child. I also want to show them that it is possible to rise above the hardships you've been given and that you can live a happy and successful life instead of becoming the statistic we were told we would be because of our upbringing.

Mental health was never a concept I was taught about in my culture. I was raised to believe that there was no reason to be anything but grateful because I was born in America. However, with about 1 in 4 adults struggling with mental health in this country, I think it's safe to say that even a first-world country like America has hurdles that its citizens face. Even though I was born in America, I was born into an Afghan household that was toxic and abusive. I was raised to believe that any form of contact with the opposite sex was forbidden and I cannot dishonor my family name. Due to the extreme restrictions, I became very isolated and distant from my classmates and peers. I was also not allowed to join any sports or extracurricular activities. It's safe to say that I've struggled with depression before I knew what it was. It only worsened when my father was murdered when I was twelve and my mother was arrested for his death a month later. My life was thrown into chaos following those events because my siblings and I were all children when it happened and we had to find a way to survive without our parents. Despite all of the hardships I endure following my father's death and my mother's incarceration, I was determined to live my life the way I wanted to since I no longer had restrictions placed on me. The first thing that came to my mind was to get an education. I witnessed first-hand how many women in my culture were not given access to education and I feel as if it's my duty to take advantage of this blessing. I also wanted to focus on my education more than getting married to a cousin back home so it left my extended family in a bitter state, but I didn't care. The only issue was that while I could have days of hope and positivity, I would have a single thought come into my head that festered quickly and ruined the rest of my week. It didn't help that I experienced financial instability and threats of homelessness for a period of time that forced me to quit college after a semester. While I eventually got back on my feet and was able to go back to college, the after effects were permanent to my mental health. I was diagnosed with clinical depression when I was nineteen. The frustrating part was that everytime I wanted to get help, I would suddenly get a day where I felt okay and as if I no longer needed any assistance and would stop my therapy sessions. It wasn't until it was my third attempt at getting help that I was sent to a psychiatrist that prescriped zoloft and at 50mg. It took two weeks of me being on zoloft for me to feel as if I should end my life. I was lucky that I had enough sanity to call my friend during that time to stay on the phone with me until I was somewhere safe. I promptly quit zoloft and went back to therapy because that experience was enough of a wake-up call to me that I needed help outside of medication. At twenty-three years old, I am still in therapy and working through my inner battles. While I do still have days where it's hard to get up and find a reason to live, I'm not able to use different coping mechanisms that help me access my emotions and how to overcome this feeling.

While many people can agree that we would not be in this world if it were not for our mothers, I can also say that I wouldn't be alive today if it wasn't for my mother. My mother also sacrificed her own life and freedom to make sure I was able to live a life different from the one she was given. Both of my parents fled from Afghanistan in their teenage years due to the war. While we were able to live a life differently in America, my father still upheld many of the toxic and cultural values that kept women at a lower podium. Behind the charming personality that attracted most people to him, he was abusive to my mother, my siblings, and me behind closed doors. I specifically recall being told at eight years old that when I was old enough, I would go to Afghanistan to marry a cousin of mine and after that, I would no longer be his daughter. My education would not be important since women should not work outside of the home and regardless, my husband would be the one to lead while I silently followed. The sad part about my childhood was that I was accustomed to and accepting of all of the times my father tried to murder me. I was also used to the cruel words he would say to me. However, it was my mother that told me that I would not be falling into the same cycle that she fell through just like her sisters and her mother. When I was twelve, my father became increasingly abusive despite being away for the majority of the time due to his work relocating to a different state. It was at this age that he was murdered and my mother was arrested for it. As I think back to my feelings back then, I felt endless resentment toward both of my parents and especially my mom because she never left him. However, now that I am older I can see that she was given little support from others. While I do not condone what my mother did, I can understand why she murdered him. When I was eighteen years old, I had to drop out of college because I had nowhere to live. All of my siblings lived in different states and we had little guidance for survival. I remember visiting my mother in prison and telling her that I dropped out and would just focus on whatever job would hire me. I jokingly said to her, "Maybe I can work to become a manager at McDonald's." It was at that moment that she burst into tears and kept apologizing to me. When she was able to speak again, she apologized for the route my life took, but begged that I didn't give up on school. She said to me, "Live the life I never got to live and make something of yourself." It was those words that encouraged me to get back to school once I found a stable place to live. My mother is a very flawed person, but she did everything she could to protect her children. While she was not able to break every generational curse, she managed to break the biggest one and give me an opportunity to live my life freely as she never could.

I never gave much consideration to how my daily choices impact the environment until a few years ago. I've always left myself blissfully unaware of how the simple things I do can cause long-standing effects on our planet. That being said, it wasn't until I was eighteen and in need of a home that I realized that there were so many habits I'd developed over the years that needed to be addressed. For starters, I realize now that while I did verbally support things like needing to live a cleaner life because of climate change, I also acknowledge that I didn't take the time to put my words into action. When I first moved into my 274 sq ft studio, I was frustrated with the lack of space for most of my things. My mindset had been that there was no space for a TV, a couch, a bed, a full kitchen, etc. I was also embarrassed that I was living in such a small space. My perception has changed because I realized that my habitual spending and need to keep up with consumerism was why I was embarrassed. I couldn't get the latest gadgets because I had no space. I'm thankful now that I'm older because I realize how much of a waste most things were. I also realized how heavily I relied on online shopping to do my work. It was more laziness than it was time management. It also didn't help that I would want everything as soon as possible, even if that meant having packages come in several days and many different boxes. Nowadays, I do my best to avoid spending through online shopping and spending with big chain stores because I don't find their practices or the way they treat their employees right. I also know that my money and continuous spending are interpreted as support to these companies and I want them to know I don't support the harm they cause. Outside of my spending habits, I also make sure to be aware of the little habits I have daily that can make an impact. I make sure to turn off my sink as I brush my teeth, I use microfiber cloths as a way to clean around my studio instead of using disposable disinfectant wipes, I keep in my electricity usage and cables that I keep plugged in, etc. There are many things that we can do daily that can lessen our carbon footprint in the world. Yes, it may seem tedious in some moments but the impact it can make if we all make these little changes will make a big difference.

I was twelve when my father was murdered and I thought I would be able to survive so long as my family stuck together. Unfortunately, my mother was arrested a month later and charged with his murder which left my siblings and me in a vulnerable state without any guidance. I see my father's death as the stepping stone to what would become a decade filled with hardships and self-healing. My father carried a very toxic and cultural mindset. He was very abusive to his wife and children while maintaining a charming personality to the rest of the world. I specifically remember him telling me when I was eight years old that when I became old enough, I would marry a cousin from back home in Afghanistan and I would no longer be his daughter. My education wouldn't be worth it since women should not work outside of the home and my husband would be the one to take the lead while I listened and followed. What's sad is that I was so accepting of that mindset when I was a child. I was accepting of a lot of the abuse and toxic cultural norms that my father placed on me. I realized I was safer without my parents when I was fifteen and my friend that was the same age told me she was going back home to Afghanistan to get engaged during our summer break. It had been three years of not having my parents when I realized how unfair their beliefs were. Why was I only worth something if I was married and raising children? It was at this time that I decided to find what I was passionate about. Through many years of financial instability, threats of homelessness, and taking the longer road compared to most people my age, I've been able to find my footing while I continue my education. I want to become an OBGYN Sonographer to help with the educational needs of women. I've seen first-hand in my own family how many women are not given the proper resources or education on their own bodies. My dream is to provide a safe space for women to reach out to that can give them control of their autonomy. I also want to use my story as an inspiration for other at-risk youth that has similar experiences as my childhood. There was a lack of guidance and support for me as I dealt with my father's death and my mother's arrest. I want to provide them with the role model I wish I had when I was younger. They can see how it is possible to endure a difficult upbringing and still come out with a successful and fulfilling life. As I think back to myself when I was younger, I want to thank both of my parents despite all of the trauma I've endured. I used to be unable to feel anything other than resentment toward them for what they put me through, but I realize now that it may not have been easy for them. They both fled Afghanistan during the war and were forced to come to a country so far away from home. My mother and I remain in contact and it was when she told me about her life in Afghanistan that I realized that I was blessed to be born in America. I also realized that even if she wasn't able to break through every generational curse she endured, she was able to break a few for me. Strangely, my father managed to inspire me to break more generational curses even after his passing. I know that when I have children, I will never let them feel as if their love is conditional. I will never tell my daughter she is only valuable to a husband that she has to follow. I will never let my sons feel superior to my daughters. I will also never give up on my dreams and the opportunities I will be given because I've been given the blessing to be born in a country where my gender does not mean I have less value.