My name is Zara Islam, a senior undergraduate student at UMass Amherst. The Ethel Hayes Destigmatization of Mental Health Scholarship, named in memory of a courageous woman who faced profound struggles with mental health, resonates deeply with me. Despite the advances of our time, millions of people are still battling invisible demons, and the loss of Ms. Hayes underscores the critical need for compassionate dialogue and support. Nearly 50 years ago, Ethel Hayes faced the overwhelming weight of mental health challenges and took her own life. Her story, a poignant reminder of the struggles many face, reflects a reality that continues to touch countless lives. The legacy of her struggles and the silence surrounding mental health within her community serve as a powerful call to action. In honor of her memory, this scholarship aims to support those who, like me, are committed to breaking the silence and fostering a more open conversation about mental health. My own journey with mental health has been shaped by both personal and professional experiences. Growing up, I encountered the pervasive stigma surrounding mental health, particularly in marginalized communities. This stigma often left me feeling isolated and compelled to suppress my own struggles. It was not until I began working in various service roles that I found a path to both healing and advocacy. This soon became my life purpose and passion. As a crisis counselor consultant, I have had the privilege of providing support to individuals facing acute mental health crises. Whether through hotline work or in-person consultations, my role has involved guiding survivors of sexual assault, those contemplating suicide, and victims of domestic violence. Each interaction has reinforced the profound impact that empathetic, immediate support can have on someone's life. Witnessing the resilience and courage of those I assist has been a powerful motivator for my continued advocacy and service. In my role as an EMT, I frequently encounter individuals in the midst of mental health crises. This experience has highlighted the urgent need for integrated mental health support within emergency services. My interactions with patients have deepened my understanding of the ways in which mental health challenges intersect with physical health needs. It has become clear to me that mental health care must be a fundamental component of comprehensive patient care. Working as a medical assistant in pediatrics and obstetrics/gynecology has exposed me to diverse patient populations, including those dealing with mental health issues. From young children to expectant mothers, I have seen how mental health concerns can affect individuals at different stages of life. This role has underscored the importance of providing compassionate, individualized care and addressing mental health as a crucial aspect of overall well-being. As a resident assistant at UMass Amherst, I have made it a priority to create a safe and supportive environment for my peers. In this role, I offer a listening ear and connect students with resources to help them navigate their personal and academic challenges. This position has allowed me to foster a sense of community where mental health can be openly discussed and supported. Additionally, my volunteer work in a nursing home, where I assisted patients with cognitive and behavioral issues such as dementia and Alzheimer’s disease, has further informed my understanding of mental health. Providing care to these individuals required patience, empathy, and a deep commitment to improving their quality of life. My personal experiences with mental health, both as a survivor and as a professional, have shaped my goals and aspirations. They have instilled in me a profound sense of purpose to advocate for mental health awareness and support. The Ethel Hayes Destigmatization of Mental Health Scholarship represents a vital opportunity for me to continue my work in this field and honor the legacy of those who have struggled in silence. The legacy of Ethel Hayes and my own experiences with mental health have driven my commitment to creating positive change. I am dedicated to breaking the stigma surrounding mental health and providing support to those in need. Thank you for considering my application and for supporting efforts to illuminate and address the challenges of mental health.

My name is Zara Islam, and my journey has been profoundly influenced by the values of selflessness and service exemplified by Emma Jane Hastie. Her dedication to serving her community and family has inspired me to pursue a career grounded in the same principles. Through my academic and volunteer experiences, I have endeavored to make a positive impact on those around me, reflecting the spirit of service that Emma Jane Hastie embodied. Throughout my life, I have sought to contribute meaningfully to my community by engaging in various forms of service work. As a high school student, I volunteered as a tutor at Kumon Learning and Reading Center, where I supported students in enhancing their academic skills. This role allowed me to witness firsthand the transformative effect of personalized guidance and encouragement on a student's confidence and success. One of the most impactful experiences of my service work occurred during my time volunteering at Hebrew SeniorLife, an assisted living facility. For three years, I worked closely with elderly residents, including those with dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, and Parkinson’s disease. This role required not only patience and empathy but also a deep commitment to improving the quality of life for individuals facing significant health challenges. I provided companionship, assisted with daily activities, and supported the residents in maintaining their dignity and comfort. The meaningful connections I forged with these individuals were a testament to the positive influence that dedicated service can have on a community. My commitment to service has continued through my various roles as an EMT, Peer Health Educator, Resident Assistant, Medical Assistant, Rape Crisis Consultant, and trained Doula. Each of these positions has provided me with unique opportunities to serve and support individuals in different capacities. For example, as a Peer Health Educator, I lead workshops on health and wellness, empowering my peers with the knowledge and resources to make informed decisions about their well-being. As a Medical Assistant and Rape Crisis Consultant, I offer care and support to patients and survivors, addressing their needs with compassion and sensitivity. A particularly poignant moment of impact occurred during my role as a Rape Crisis Consultant. I worked directly with survivors of sexual violence, providing emotional support and guiding them through the process of seeking justice and healing. This role required not only a strong commitment to advocacy but also the ability to offer empathetic support during incredibly difficult times. The resilience and courage of the individuals I supported were a powerful reminder of the importance of dedicated service in fostering recovery and empowerment. My dedication to service is driven by a deep-seated belief in the importance of contributing to the well-being of others. I am motivated by the fulfillment that comes from making a tangible difference in people's lives and the opportunity to help individuals overcome obstacles and achieve their goals. The values of selflessness and community service that Emma Jane Hastie exemplified continue to inspire me as I pursue a career in [Your Field of Study], aiming to make a meaningful impact in my chosen profession. In conclusion, this scholarship represents a vital opportunity to support my ongoing commitment to service and my efforts to create positive change in the community. I am honored to be considered for this award and remain dedicated to following in the footsteps of those who have paved the way through their selfless contributions. Thank you for considering my application and for supporting future leaders who are passionate about making a difference through service.

My name is Zara Islam, and my journey has been profoundly shaped by a commitment to helping others achieve their best selves. Inspired by the memory of a remarkable individual who dedicated her life to selflessness and empowering those around her, I have made it my purpose to embrace these values through my volunteer work, academic pursuits, and professional roles. During high school, I devoted myself to service through various volunteer opportunities that allowed me to develop and refine my skills in supporting others. I volunteered as a tutor at Kumon Learning and Reading Center, where I worked with students to improve their academic skills and build their confidence. This experience taught me the importance of patience, clear communication, and the impact of personalized support on a student’s success. In addition to my work at Kumon, I spent three years volunteering at Hebrew SeniorLife, an assisted living facility for seniors with dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, and Parkinson’s disease. Here, I had the privilege of working closely with patients who faced significant challenges, providing companionship, and assisting with daily activities. This role deepened my understanding of the needs of elderly individuals and the importance of compassionate, respectful care. It also enhanced my ability to empathize with those facing cognitive and physical challenges, reinforcing my dedication to making a positive impact in their lives. My commitment to service continued as I pursued additional roles that allowed me to further develop my skills and expand my impact. As an EMT, I have provided emergency medical care, learning to respond swiftly and effectively to critical situations. My role as a Peer Health Educator has involved leading workshops and offering resources on health topics, helping my peers make informed decisions and improve their well-being. As a Resident Assistant, I support and mentor fellow students, fostering a positive living environment and providing guidance on personal and academic matters. My work as a Medical Assistant for a pediatric and ob/gyn office, and Rape Crisis Consultant has given me firsthand experience in healthcare and advocacy, where I assist diverse patient populations in medical settings and support individuals affected by sexual violence. Additionally, as a trained Doula, I provide emotional and physical support to individuals during childbirth, helping them navigate one of the most profound experiences of their lives with care and compassion. These diverse experiences have equipped me with a range of skills essential for helping others achieve their best. I have developed a strong sense of empathy, communication, and problem-solving abilities, all of which are crucial for effective service. What drives me is the belief that everyone deserves the opportunity to reach their full potential, and I am motivated by the fulfillment that comes from making a meaningful difference in people’s lives. As I continue my academic journey and professional development, my goal is to integrate my experiences and skills to contribute to fields that enhance individual and community well-being. This scholarship represents an invaluable opportunity to support my ongoing efforts to help others and further my impact. In conclusion, the values of selflessness and empowerment exemplified by the individual in whose memory this scholarship is awarded deeply resonate with me. My commitment to service through various roles has been a cornerstone of my journey, and I am dedicated to continuing this path. Thank you for considering my application and supporting future leaders who are passionate about empowering others to achieve their best. Thank you for your consideration of my application.

Antonie “Tony” Bernard Thomas embodied the spirit of service and dedication throughout his life, both in his tenure with the United States Navy and as a Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority Police Officer. His legacy of selflessness, strength, and commitment to others continues to inspire me as I pursue my educational and career goals. Reflecting on his qualities, I strive to display these traits in my own life, especially as I work towards my degree and future aspirations. Leadership, for me, means guiding with integrity and inspiring others through clear, empathetic communication. As a leader in various roles, from my position as a Peer Health Educator and Resident Assistant at UMass Amherst to my involvement in healthcare settings, I emphasize the importance of effective communication. I ensure that I listen actively to others, provide clear instructions, and lead by example. Whether collaborating with fellow students, healthcare professionals, or community members, I aim to foster an environment where everyone feels heard and valued, much like how Tony’s selfless listening made everyone around him feel supported and understood. Resilience has been a cornerstone of my journey. Balancing academic demands with multiple jobs to support my family's financial hardships taught me to persist despite challenges. The setbacks and obstacles I’ve faced, from economic struggles to managing a rigorous academic schedule, have strengthened my resolve and ability to adapt. This resilience is driven by my commitment to my goals and my desire to honor the sacrifices made by those who have supported me, like Tony’s dedication to his family and community. Selflessness is a trait that resonates deeply with me. Inspired by Tony’s generosity and his dedication to making others happy, I strive to put others’ needs before my own. This quality is reflected in my volunteer work as a rape crisis consultant and my role as an emergency medical technician (EMT). In these positions, I prioritize the well-being of others, offering support and advocacy to those in need. My goal is to emulate Tony’s spirit of service by using my skills and education to make a positive impact in my community. Focus and determination has guided my academic and professional journey. From working tirelessly to maintain high academics while juggling multiple jobs to my commitment to pursuing a career as a Physician Assistant, I remain determined in my objectives. This focus is driven by a vision of my future and the desire to overcome any obstacles in my path, much like Tony’s unwavering dedication to his roles in the Navy and as a police officer. A strong work ethic is a fundamental approach to my studies and professional responsibilities. Balancing demanding academic coursework with hands-on medical and other volunteer experience, I put in the effort required to excel in both areas. My work ethic is characterized by dedication, reliability, and a commitment to excellence, reflecting the values Tony exemplified through his service and dedication to his family. Future Goals and Inspiration: My goal is to become a Physician Assistant with a focus on women’s health and underserved populations. My inspiration comes from a deep-seated desire to provide compassionate care and advocate for those who face barriers accessing healthcare. This aspiration is fueled by my personal experiences and the example set by individuals like Tony, who dedicated their lives to serving others. This scholarship would significantly support my journey, allowing me to focus on my studies and further develop my skills to serve others effectively. By embodying the traits that Tony cherished, I hope to honor his memory and make a meaningful impact in my field and community. Thank you for considering my application.

As a brown-skinned Muslim woman navigating a predominantly white school environment, my childhood was marked by more than just academic challenges; it was a daily battle against stereotypes and discrimination. I endured ridicule and was often made to feel like an outsider, not just because of who I was but because of the cultural and religious identity I carried with me. These experiences, though painful, forged in me a deep well of resilience and an unshakable determination to rise above the adversity. My family's journey from a small village in Bangladesh to the United States was driven by hope—a hope for a better future that was tragically tested by the 2008 economic crash. When I was only five years old, my father’s business collapsed, plunging our family into poverty. I remember the nights of uncertainty when we went to bed hungry, not knowing if there would be enough food for the next day. My parents worked tirelessly, but the weight of their struggle was palpable. I saw their dreams of a better life slipping through their fingers, and it hurt to see their sacrifices go unrewarded. To help my family, I started working when I was just 14, taking on a job as a hostess in 2018. Juggling school and work was exhausting, but it was necessary. Each shift I worked was a step toward helping my family and a testament to my determination to overcome the hardships we faced. Those long hours taught me the value of perseverance and the importance of seizing every opportunity, no matter how small. Despite the obstacles, my academic journey led me to UMass Amherst, where I am now pursuing a degree in Public Health with the goal of becoming a Physician Assistant (PA). My dream is to be a healthcare provider for minority women, advocating for their health and breaking down barriers that too often keep them from receiving the care they need. It’s a dream born from my own experiences and the pain of seeing others struggle as my family did. However, the cost of college is a heavy burden that threatens to overshadow my aspirations. Despite my best efforts, the financial strain remains a significant challenge. The Khai Perry Scholarship represents more than just monetary support; it symbolizes a chance to breathe, to focus on my studies without the constant weight of financial stress, and to continue my journey toward making a meaningful impact in healthcare. I have been deeply involved in roles that reflect my dedication to both medicine and community service. From working as a medical assistant at an OB/GYN clinic to serving as a rape crisis consultant, I have sought to use my skills to support and uplift others. My commitment extends to being a peer health educator and a representative on the Massachusetts Student Advisory Board, where I advocate for reproductive rights and work to improve health outcomes for underserved communities. Receiving this scholarship would not only provide vital financial relief but also reaffirm my belief in the power of support and compassion. It would enable me to persist in my studies and continue striving towards a career where I can advocate for those who are often overlooked and underserved. Thank you for considering my application. Your support would be a beacon of hope in my journey, helping me turn the trials of my past into a future of opportunity and impact. It would allow me to honor the struggles of my family and the strength I have gained by dedicating myself to a life of service and advocacy.

Volunteering as an EMT is not just a role I fill; it’s my purpose — it aligns with my deep passion for healthcare, community service, and public health. As a nationally and state-certified and licensed EMT, who received a 10 week comprehensive training that included BLS, CPR, First Aid, AED, PEARS, and FEMA certifications, my commitment to the field of emergency medicine is unexplainable. As a passionate healthcare worker, I am trained as a Medical Assistant, crisis counselor, sexual assault and domestic violence hotline operator, assisted living volunteer, and doula. Employed as a Medical Assistant at Horizons Health and Wellness, a functional medicine and ob/gyn clinic, and interning at Weymouth Pediatrics P.C, a pediatric primary care office, I serve a diverse array of patient populations. Additionally, I volunteer at Hebrew SeniorLife, an assisted living facility affiliated with Harvard Medical School, where I have worked with patients suffering from dementia, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s disease for the past four years. My commitment to healthcare is driven by my passion for serving others and my academic pursuit of a Public Health degree at UMass Amherst. I am on track to graduate early, with the ultimate goal of becoming a Physician Assistant. My decision to volunteer as an EMT stems from a desire to provide immediate, life-saving care during critical moments. The ability to respond effectively in emergencies, to offer comfort and medical assistance when it’s needed most, is a responsibility I embrace, and am flattered that I can provide during a vulnerable moment. My work with University of Massachusetts Emergency Medical Services (UMEMS) has given me the opportunity of emergency care, where every call is a chance to make an impact on someone's life. My training and certifications reflect my dedication to excelling in this field, with plans to complete a paramedic program soon. Each certification, including CPR, BLS, first aid, AED, and PEARS, enhances my emergency response capabilities. My experience as a doula and crisis counselor enriches my capacity to offer empathetic and comprehensive care in high-stress situations. Additionally, my roles as a UMass Amherst student leader, representative on the Massachusetts Student Advisory Board for medication abortion through Advocates for Youth, and Peer Health Educator demonstrate my commitment to advocating for health education and healthcare rights. These roles have taught me the importance of emotional support and advocacy, skills that are crucial in both emergency medical services and my future career in healthcare. Not only have these experiences broadened my perspective on healthcare, they have emphasized the intersection of direct patient care and advocacy, which is a huge component in healthcare today. Serving the community an EMT has been one of the most rewarding aspects of my life. It is a calling and purpose of my commitment to healthcare, public health, and community service. It is a role that challenges and inspires me everyday, providing invaluable experience and feedback, reinforcing my passion for making a difference and serving those in a time of need. With my extensive training, academic dedication, and passion for community service, I am equipped to provide exceptional care and further my experience in healthcare, to continue to serve those in need. This scholarship would allow me to continue my educational healthcare journey, further utilizing my skills and expanding my capacity to serve and heal. This funding would allow me to focus my savings towards a paramedic program instead of my tuition. This will not only make a huge impact on my life educationally and financially, but also allow me to serve our community at a greater capacity. Thank you so much for considering my application.

Volunteering as an EMT is not just a role I fill; it’s my purpose — it aligns with my deep passion for healthcare, community service, and public health. As a nationally and state-certified and licensed EMT, who received a 10 week comprehensive training that included BLS, CPR, First Aid, AED, PEARS, and FEMA certifications, my commitment to the field of emergency medicine is unexplainable. As a passionate healthcare worker, I am trained as a Medical Assistant, crisis counselor, sexual assault and domestic violence hotline operator, assisted living volunteer, and doula. Employed as a Medical Assistant at Horizons Health and Wellness, a functional medicine and ob/gyn clinic, and interning at Weymouth Pediatrics P.C, a pediatric primary care office, I serve a diverse array of patient populations. Additionally, I volunteer at Hebrew SeniorLife, an assisted living facility affiliated with Harvard Medical School, where I have worked with patients suffering from dementia, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s disease for the past four years. My commitment to healthcare is driven by my passion for serving others and my academic pursuit of a Public Health degree at UMass Amherst. I am on track to graduate early, with the ultimate goal of becoming a Physician Assistant. My decision to volunteer as an EMT stems from a desire to provide immediate, life-saving care during critical moments. The ability to respond effectively in emergencies, to offer comfort and medical assistance when it’s needed most, is a responsibility I embrace, and am flattered that I can provide during a vulnerable moment. My work with University of Massachusetts Emergency Medical Services (UMEMS) has given me the opportunity of emergency care, where every call is a chance to make an impact on someone's life. My training and certifications reflect my dedication to excelling in this field, with plans to complete a paramedic program soon. Each certification, including CPR, BLS, first aid, AED, and PEARS, enhances my emergency response capabilities. My experience as a doula and crisis counselor enriches my capacity to offer empathetic and comprehensive care in high-stress situations. Additionally, my roles as a UMass Amherst student leader, representative on the Massachusetts Student Advisory Board for medication abortion through Advocates for Youth, and Peer Health Educator demonstrate my commitment to advocating for health education and healthcare rights. These roles have taught me the importance of emotional support and advocacy, skills that are crucial in both emergency medical services and my future career in healthcare. Not only have these experiences broadened my perspective on healthcare, they have emphasized the intersection of direct patient care and advocacy, which is a huge component in healthcare today. Serving the community an EMT has been one of the most rewarding aspects of my life. It is a calling and purpose of my commitment to healthcare, public health, and community service. It is a role that challenges and inspires me everyday, providing invaluable experience and feedback, reinforcing my passion for making a difference and serving those in a time of need. With my extensive training, academic dedication, and passion for community service, I am equipped to provide exceptional care and further my experience in healthcare, to continue to serve those in need. This scholarship would allow me to continue my educational healthcare journey, further utilizing my skills and expanding my capacity to serve and heal. This funding would allow me to focus my savings towards a paramedic program instead of my tuition. This will not only make a huge impact on my life educationally and financially, but also allow me to serve our community at a greater capacity. Thank you so much for considering my application.