Mental health includes our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It affects how we think, feel, and act. It also helps determine how we handle stress. Mental health has always affected me starting from an early age. When I was three years old, I lost my father due to a brain hemorrhage which, completely turned my world upside down. Once I transitioned into middle school I started thinking about how different my life would be if he were still on this planet. I thought about all of the things that he would not be able to do. He wouldn't be able to walk me down the aisle at my wedding or see me receive my high school diploma or degrees at my college graduations. Losing my father has had the most significant impact on my mental health and I am still affected by it today. Mental health is very important and everyone should be able to get the help they need and find positive methods to help them. I learned how to cope with the loss of my father with music. Although I was only three years old when my father passed, I can remember my mom talking to me about my father being in heaven. I often thought that I would see him soon but was always reminded that he would not be coming back home. When I began to express to my mom how I felt she immediately started thinking of things that could help me cope. To name a few, we tried painting, cooking, and shopping which all helped to some extent, but nothing seemed to comfort me as much as hearing and playing music did. When I am stressed I take a break and just listen to some of my favorite songs. Some have special meanings in the words but some are simply soothing to listen to. Furthermore, I attended a fine arts magnet elementary school and I played the viola which comforted me as well. I enjoyed the sounds that were made when all of the instruments played together. I was very involved with music during my elementary career as I was in my school’s chorus as well as the honor choir for my school district. I began to discover my passion for music and realized how much it helped me to cope with the loss of my father. When deciding on what I wanted to do after high school, I was immediately drawn towards social work. A profession in social work will allow me to help those who are in need and struggle with mental health issues. I also want to use music as a positive method to help others. My future aspirations are to attend Georgia State University to earn a degree in Social Work and then further my education by earning an advanced degree in Psychology. My ultimate goal is to be able to assist others that are suffering from mental health issues and share ways for them to cope with them. I would love to sponsor a camp for young children which would include music, dance, and drama lessons designed to support them. When I become a social worker in the future, I aspire to make a positive impact on others regardless of their background. I truly want to make an impact on the lives of others so that they know that they can be happy even when they are experiencing sadness.

We've all had life events that have shaped us into the people we are today. Growing up in the south, I can recall numerous instances in which I was confronted with adversity and loss. I lost my father when I was three years old and I was bullied in elementary school for being "different". Through all of these hardships, I didn't let loss, bullying, or prejudice define who I am. Instead, I embraced my differences and fell in love with my different interests. Losing my father that young made a significant impact on my life in many ways. Although I had the love and support of my family, I still struggled at times with moments of sadness and a sense of helplessness. Not having the love of your father has such a big impact on your life. Once I started elementary school, I noticed I was different from my peers at a young age and bullying was something I encountered. I was a young, black, chubby little girl who had different interests from the other kids. I used to be upset and would constantly ask myself, "Why me?". I was unique, but I learned to accept myself and my peculiarities gracefully. I joined my schools' choir in second grade and began to play the viola in 4th grade. I met many people who had the same interests as me and I finally felt like I belonged at my school. Without music, I wouldn't have gotten through these hard times. My community has helped to shape who I am today in that I have learned to have compassion for others that are in need and how to be of service to mankind. On several occasions, I have seen my community work together to support families that need food and shelter. I often volunteer with my mom at local organizations that assist homeless people. This has helped me to have a greater appreciation for the people and things in my life. Additionally, I have a desire to pay it forward and be of service to those in need. My future aspirations are to attend Georgia State University to earn a degree in Social Work and then further my education by earning an advanced degree in Psychology. My ultimate goal is to be able to assist others that are suffering from mental health issues and share ways for them to cope with their issues. I would love to sponsor a camp for young children which would include music, dance, and drama lessons designed to support them. I truly want to make an impact on the lives of others so that they know that they can be happy even when they are experiencing sadness.