Being the first in my family to attend college brings me an immense sense of pride and a deep-rooted sense of purpose. As a single mother of two energetic boys, I navigate a landscape filled with challenges, yet my unwavering determination to create a better life for them fuels my motivation each day. I have come to realize that education is not merely a means to an end; it is a powerful tool that opens doors to happiness and opportunity. To instill this value in my children, I make it a priority to teach them the importance of punctuality and active participation in school, as I believe these habits will set the foundation for their future successes. Currently, I am pursuing a bachelor’s degree in psychology, with hopes of advancing my education to obtain a master’s in clinical psychology. This academic journey is not just a personal milestone; it is a stepping stone toward fulfilling my ambition of addressing the critical need for accessible mental health care, especially for those individuals and communities that are often overlooked. My aspiration is to work directly with children, veterans, and the homeless, aiming to provide the essential support that can help them overcome insurmountable challenges and restore a sense of purpose in their lives. Through my education, I envision myself making a tangible difference. I want to connect with a wide array of individuals, offering them practical techniques and strategies to navigate their daily lives. My commitment extends beyond direct intervention; I aim to educate families and friends about mental illness, helping them understand how they can best support their loved ones who are struggling. I firmly believe that it only takes one person to ignite a change through knowledge, creating a ripple effect throughout communities. Just as a single teacher can inspire a lifelong love for learning, I hope to be a catalyst for change in the perception of mental health. By working together, we can challenge and dismantle the stigma that often surrounds these issues, fostering a more compassionate and understanding environment for those affected. This vision extends not only to my personal growth and fulfillment but also to the future I aspire to create for my children, my community, and the world at large. My journey is just beginning, but I am committed to making every step count. As stated by Kofi Annan "Knowledge is power. Information is liberating. Education is the premise of progress, in every society, in every family".

Mental health is a fundamental component of both academic performance and personal well-being for students. When students maintain a positive mental state, they experience heightened focus, increased motivation, and improved cognitive abilities, which together enable them to engage deeply and meaningfully with their studies. On the other hand, mental health issues—such as anxiety, depression, and elevated stress levels—can severely disrupt academic progress. These challenges can lead to a decline in productivity, difficulties with concentration, and ultimately, lower grades. It's not unusual for students grappling with mental health issues to also suffer from decreases in self-esteem and confidence, which can create a cycle that exacerbates their educational hurdles. Reflecting on my own educational journey, I have encountered numerous instances where my mental well-being directly influenced my academic success. There have been pivotal moments when I found it necessary to drop courses, miss important classes, or even put my studies on hold altogether due to mental health struggles. These experiences have taught me the invaluable lesson that neglecting my mental health while trying to fulfill obligations to others—or even to myself—often results in greater harm than good. To prioritize my mental health during my time in school, I have developed a variety of strategies that have proven effective. Establishing a consistent daily routine is paramount; I ensure that I incorporate regular physical exercise, maintain a balanced diet rich in nutrients, and strive for sufficient sleep each night to fulfill my body's needs. Additionally, I integrate mindfulness practices into my life, which include taking breaks to step outside, breathe fresh air, and soak up the sunlight. This connection to nature helps to rejuvenate my mind and lift my spirits. Setting realistic and achievable academic goals allows me to maintain motivation and a sense of purpose while studying. I prioritize subjects that genuinely spark my interest, as this passion keeps me engaged and eager to learn. Time management is another crucial aspect; I make it a point to plan my workload carefully to avoid feelings of being overwhelmed. For instance, if extra credit assignments do not significantly impact my overall grade, I choose to prioritize my well-being and forego them instead of adding unnecessary stress. Lastly, I feel incredibly fortunate to have a strong support network in my life. My family and friends provide unwavering support, encouragement, and guidance, helping me navigate the challenges I face and reinforcing positive decisions along my path. Their presence is a comforting reminder that I am not alone in my journey, and they inspire me to prioritize my mental health in all aspects of life.