Balancing the demands of school, extracurriculars, and personal life often feels like juggling fragile pieces, each one demanding attention at the same time. As a college student pursuing a dual degree, I’ve realized that managing my mental health is key to succeeding academically and maintaining my overall well-being. Running has become one of my most effective ways to manage stress. There’s something about the rhythm of each stride that clears my mind, helping me push aside the noise of everyday pressures. It’s a time when I can process my thoughts and reset emotionally. The act of running challenges me physically, but it also has a profound impact on my mental clarity. After a run, I feel ready to tackle my academic work with renewed focus and energy, able to approach my responsibilities with a clearer perspective. Journaling and planning also play an important role in how I manage my mental health. When the weight of multiple deadlines and tasks becomes overwhelming, I find comfort in writing. Journaling allows me to untangle my thoughts and organize them into clear, actionable goals. It helps me identify the causes of my stress, whether it’s the sheer volume of work or personal matters. By breaking tasks into smaller, manageable steps, I reduce the feeling of being overwhelmed and stay on top of everything that needs attention. Planning my day allows me to stay focused and ensures that I don’t get lost in the bigger picture. Another way I prioritize my mental health is through music. As a violinist, playing the violin has always been a source of joy and relaxation, especially when I play with friends. Music serves as a creative escape, providing me with a space to unwind and reconnect with myself. Performing with others reminds me that I’m not alone in my struggles. The act of collaborating to create music fosters a sense of community and belonging. It allows me to express emotions that words cannot capture, offering a cathartic release. When stress piles up, these musical moments provide a mental break, allowing me to return to my work with a refreshed mindset. Beyond these personal outlets, I’ve also co-founded the Global Mental Health Outreach (GMHO) Program, a nonprofit organization dedicated to creating safe spaces for individuals to share their mental health struggles and find support. The idea for GMHO came from my own experiences with mental health challenges and the desire to help others who might be facing similar obstacles. Through GMHO, I organize initiatives like "Letters for Care," where we deliver messages of encouragement to people experiencing mental health challenges. This program has deepened my understanding of mental health, and I’ve learned that the importance of emotional well-being goes beyond individual struggles—it’s about community support. GMHO has not only helped others but also reinforced the importance of seeking help and raising awareness. Support from my family and friends is also crucial. Having people to turn to for advice and encouragement reminds me that I don’t have to face challenges alone. Whether I’m navigating academic difficulties or personal concerns, my friends provide fresh perspectives and practical advice. My family, always my rock, reassures me when the weight of responsibilities feels too heavy. Their unwavering belief in me strengthens my resilience and fuels my drive to keep pushing forward. These strategies not only help me maintain balance and productivity but also allow me to continue pursuing my academic goals while staying grounded in my well-being. Taking care of my mental health is an ongoing process, but it’s one that has shaped how I navigate both my academic journey and personal life.

I founded the Global Mental Health Outreach (GMHO) Program to address the stigma surrounding mental health and provide a platform for individuals to share their stories. After witnessing a close friend's struggle with mental health, I realized how isolating it can be to navigate these challenges alone. This experience motivated me to create a global network where individuals could access support, resources, and safe spaces to discuss mental health. Through GMHO, I’ve been able to organize workshops, host discussions, and facilitate initiatives like "Letters for Care," which delivers encouraging messages to those facing mental health struggles. The goal of GMHO is to offer individuals a sense of connection and community, helping them realize they are not alone in their journey. I’ve seen firsthand how sharing experiences and providing emotional support can create a ripple effect, empowering others to open up and seek help. In addition to organizing workshops and support initiatives, I also teach mental health classes that focus on topics like mental health first aid, stress management, and coping mechanisms. These classes aim to educate individuals on how to support themselves and others through mental health challenges. One of the most rewarding aspects of these efforts has been hearing from participants who feel more equipped to handle their own struggles or support friends and family members facing similar challenges. Knowing that I’ve helped others gain tools to prioritize their mental health is incredibly fulfilling. In my future career, I plan to continue supporting mental health by using my studies and experiences to promote emotional well-being. As a physician, I hope to incorporate mental health awareness into patient care, offering not just physical treatment but also emotional support. Whether through one-on-one consultations or larger-scale educational efforts, I want to help others understand that mental health is just as important as physical health. I believe that offering emotional care alongside medical care is essential in helping individuals heal and regain a sense of balance in their lives. Ultimately, I am dedicated to using my platform, my future career, and my own experiences to break down mental health stigma and ensure others feel supported in their emotional well-being.

Balancing the demands of school, extracurriculars, and personal life often feels like juggling fragile pieces, each one demanding attention at the same time. As a college student pursuing a dual degree, the pressures of my academic workload and personal responsibilities can be overwhelming, but I’ve developed strategies to stay grounded, focused, and resilient. Running has become one of my most effective ways to manage stress. The rhythm of each stride clears my mind, helping me push aside the noise of everyday pressures. It’s a time when I can process my thoughts and reset emotionally. The act of running challenges me physically, but it also has a profound impact on my mental clarity. After a run, I feel ready to tackle my academic work with renewed focus and energy, able to approach my responsibilities with a clearer perspective. Journaling and planning play an important role in how I manage my mental health. When the weight of multiple deadlines and tasks becomes overwhelming, I find comfort in writing. Journaling allows me to untangle my thoughts and organize them into clear, actionable goals. It helps me identify the causes of my stress, whether it’s the sheer volume of work or personal matters. By breaking tasks into smaller, manageable steps, I reduce the feeling of being overwhelmed and stay on top of everything that needs attention. Planning my day allows me to stay focused and ensures that I don’t get lost in the bigger picture. Another way I prioritize my mental health is through music. As a violinist, playing the violin has always been a source of joy and relaxation, especially when I play with friends. Music serves as a creative escape, providing me with a space to unwind and reconnect with myself. Performing with others reminds me that I’m not alone in my struggles. The act of collaborating to create music fosters a sense of community and belonging. It allows me to express emotions that words cannot capture, offering a cathartic release. When stress piles up, these musical moments provide a mental break, allowing me to return to my work with a refreshed mindset. Beyond these personal outlets, I’ve also co-founded the Global Mental Health Outreach (GMHO) Program, a nonprofit organization dedicated to creating safe spaces for individuals to share their mental health struggles and find support. The idea for GMHO came from my own experiences with mental health challenges and the desire to help others who might be facing similar obstacles. I organize initiatives like "Letters for Care," where I deliver messages of encouragement to people experiencing mental health challenges. This program has deepened my understanding of mental health, and I’ve learned that the importance of emotional well-being goes beyond individual struggles—it’s about community support. GMHO has not only helped others but also reinforced the importance of seeking help and raising awareness. Support from my family and friends is also crucial in maintaining my mental health. Having people to turn to for advice and encouragement reminds me that I don’t have to face challenges alone. Whether I’m navigating academic difficulties or personal concerns, my friends provide fresh perspectives and practical advice. My family, always my rock, reassures me when the weight of responsibilities feels too heavy. Their unwavering belief in me strengthens my resilience and fuels my drive to keep pushing forward. These strategies help me maintain balance and productivity and also allow me to continue pursuing my academic goals while staying grounded in my well-being. Taking care of my mental health is an ongoing process, but it’s one that has shaped how I navigate both my academic journey and personal life.

My name is Cheryl Tang, a third-year student at Northwestern University majoring in biological sciences and violin performance. My life goal is to become a cardiac surgeon, helping patients regain their strength and forming meaningful relationships through long-term care. I believe that healing is not just about physical recovery but also providing emotional support that guides individuals through their struggles. I volunteer weekly at Trulee Senior Living, designing cognitive activities for residents with Alzheimer’s. One day, I worked with a resident who was struggling with a puzzle. Her frustration grew as she couldn’t seem to fit the pieces together, so I sat beside her, offering encouragement. When she finally completed the puzzle, her eyes lit up with pride, and her smile reflected a newfound sense of accomplishment. This moment reminded me of the power of support and how it can help individuals reconnect with their potential. Beyond puzzles, I also play familiar pieces on my violin, providing relaxation and a sense of connection. Even in moments of forgetfulness, familiar melodies evoke memories, offering comfort and a sense of continuity. Alongside my work at Trulee, I founded the Global Mental Health Outreach (GMHO) Program, a nonprofit organization aimed at breaking the stigma surrounding mental health. The inspiration for GMHO came from seeing a friend struggle with mental health, highlighting the isolation many, especially teens and international students, face. GMHO has grown into a global network with chapters in seven countries, creating spaces for sharing stories. I organize workshops on topics like mental health first aid and personality disorders, providing resources to help individuals maintain their mental well-being. One of our most impactful projects, "Letters for Care," delivered over 1,000 messages of encouragement to teens worldwide, reminding them that they are not alone. The emotional responses from participants reaffirmed the importance of fostering an environment where people can freely share their struggles. Through GMHO, I've also taught mental health classes addressing various conditions, coping strategies, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. One workshop focused on the challenges faced by international students, where participants shared their experiences of navigating a new culture while managing stress. Watching students learn tools to cope and challenge societal stigmas was inspiring. It reinforced the impact of education and awareness on mental health, showing how providing knowledge and resources can empower individuals to care for themselves and others. My experiences as a medical assistant further shaped my commitment to service. I assist patients undergoing treadmill electrocardiograms, and one particular patient stands out. She was recovering from a heart condition, and over time, I saw her progress. At first, she struggled with the treadmill, but her steps became steadier, and her smile brighter. What struck me most was how, despite the physical challenges, she remained determined to regain her strength. This experience reinforced my belief that emotional support, combined with physical care, helps individuals grow stronger. These experiences have taught me that service isn’t just about helping others; it’s about empowering them to discover their potential. By helping people recognize their strengths, I enable them to overcome challenges and move toward recovery. These moments inspire my commitment to continue making a positive impact and serving others as a future physician.

The soft hum of conversations filled the common room as I walked into Trulee Senior Living, violin case in hand. It was a familiar scene—residents gathered around tables, some flipping through old photo albums, others gazing out the windows. But amid the quiet bustle, one resident caught my eye, sitting alone with a jigsaw puzzle in front of them, their hands motionless, their gaze distant. I hesitated for a moment, then approached with a smile. “Mind if I join you?” I asked, pulling up a chair. At first, there was no response, just a slight flicker of recognition. But as we began working on the puzzle together, piece by tentative piece, something shifted. Their focus sharpened, and a faint smile began to form. That small, shared moment of accomplishment—placing the final piece into the puzzle—was a reminder of the transformative power of kindness. It wasn’t just about completing a task; it was about creating a space where someone felt seen, valued, and capable. These moments have become a cornerstone of my weekly visits to Trulee Senior Living, where I design cognitive activities tailored to the residents, many of whom live with Alzheimer’s. Whether it’s guiding someone through a puzzle, hosting a group activity, or simply offering a smile, I’ve learned that kindness doesn’t always need words. It’s about meeting people where they are, offering connection and patience in a world that often rushes past. This commitment to fostering connection also inspired me to found the Global Mental Health Outreach (GMHO) Program, a nonprofit organization, during my freshman year of high school. The idea was born after a friend confided in me about their struggles with mental health, revealing both the depth of their pain and the silence that often surrounds such topics. I realized that many people, especially students, navigate similar challenges in isolation. Determined to create a safe space for open dialogue, I began organizing workshops and support networks to combat stigma and offer resources to those in need. Over time, GMHO grew into a global initiative with chapters spanning seven countries. The organization empowers individuals through its many initiatives, including a podcast series where people share their recovery stories. These narratives not only provide hope but also inspire others to take steps toward their own healing. Additionally, I’ve taught mental health classes on topics like mental health first aid, equipping participants with techniques and lifestyles to maintain their well-being. These sessions also delve into various mental health challenges, addressing societal stigmas, and raising awareness to foster a more understanding community. One of our projects, “Letters for Care,” delivered over 1,000 handwritten notes of encouragement to teens around the world, a simple yet impactful gesture that reminded recipients they weren’t alone. Whether through podcasts, classes, or written messages, GMHO demonstrates how acts of kindness, no matter how small, can ripple outward, creating a profound impact on individuals and communities alike. My commitment to kindness also extends into clinical settings. As a medical assistant, I’ve had the privilege of forming meaningful connections with patients. One patient, recovering from a heart condition, required weekly treadmill electrocardiograms. At first, the tests seemed daunting to her, each step hesitant and filled with uncertainty. Over time, I encouraged her to celebrate small victories—an extra step, a steadier pace, a brighter smile. Week by week, I watched her confidence and strength grow. When she shared stories of her grandchildren, her voice softened with joy. These moments became more than routine checkups; they were reminders of the life she was reclaiming. I cherished our connection, watching her regain confidence. These moments taught me that healing is as much about the care we provide as it is about the trust and empathy we build. Through these experiences, I’ve learned that kindness is not just a fleeting act but a deliberate choice—a way of seeing the world and responding to it with compassion. At Trulee Senior Living, I’ve witnessed how simple activities can rekindle a spark in someone’s day. Through GMHO, I’ve seen how shared stories, education, and encouragement can bring people together, even across continents. And in my clinical work, I’ve understood the importance of walking alongside others in their journeys, no matter how long or difficult the road may seem. These moments have shaped not only my perspective but also my aspirations. They’ve inspired me to pursue medicine, where I can continue to support and uplift others in their most vulnerable moments. Kindness, I’ve found, has the power to transform lives—not just for those who receive it, but also for those who give it. And for me, there’s no greater calling than that.

One of my earliest ventures into leadership and innovation was through music. After years of solitary practice on the violin, the joy I once found in playing had diminished. It was only when I joined the Chordas quartet that I rediscovered my passion. Inspired by the dedication of my fellow musicians, I realized that music is a collaborative art, thriving on shared ideas and collective effort. This experience ignited my entrepreneurial spirit. I founded a 40-person orchestra at my school, assuming the roles of conductor and concertmaster. Our initial rehearsals were chaotic, with individuals struggling to synchronize. Undeterred, I implemented individual lessons and peer collaboration, gradually transforming our disparate group into a cohesive, spirited ensemble. Our second-place finish in a major competition was a testament to our hard work and unity. This endeavor taught me the importance of leadership, innovation, and resilience—qualities integral to any entrepreneurial pursuit. My entrepreneurial journey continued after moving to California when I founded the Global Mental Health Outreach Program to challenge the stigma surrounding mental illness. I was inspired to do so after a friend attempted suicide. Students whispered cruel rumors without taking her plight seriously. Unlike other mental health organizations, mine focuses on teen-to-teen interactions. Many find talking to a peer more relatable, and they are more willing to open up and seek help. In addition to creating hours of webinars and many articles for our website, I established branches in multiple countries to plan events tailored to local needs. I recruited over 60 students worldwide, including Egypt, Bangladesh, and Romania, to assist. This diversity helps bridge cultural gaps on many sensitive topics. For example, personality disorders are considered a weakness in Nigeria, so many people are afraid to discuss them. I organized and helped create online classes on their repercussions with RehabAfrica, designed to teach about personality disorders while alleviating cultural stigmas. This initiative embodies my passion for innovation and my commitment to scholarly engagement, as I continually research and adapt our approach to meet the needs of different communities. Furthermore, my curiosity about the world and dedication to academic excellence are reflected in my co-founding of Biology for Better (BFBThis non-profit organization aims to make STEM education more accessible, particularly in developing countries. By partnering with schools in India, Tanzania, and Malawi, we provided small-group tutorials, worksheets, and video lectures to supplement their biology courses. This project not only addressed educational disparities but also fueled my intellectual curiosity, allowing me to explore diverse educational systems and adapt our resources to fit varied learning environments. The enthusiasm and curiosity of the children we serve inspire me, reinforcing the importance of putting words into action and demonstrating the power of education to bridge global gaps. Each of these experiences has shaped my entrepreneurial spirit, deepened my scholarly engagement, and fueled my curiosity. They have taught me the value of collaboration, the importance of empathy, and the power of innovative thinking. Whether leading an orchestra, addressing mental health stigma, or promoting STEM education, I have sought to create meaningful, lasting impact. These endeavors have not only enriched my academic journey but also instilled in me a profound sense of purpose and responsibility. The qualities of entrepreneurial spirit, innovation, scholarly engagement, curiosity, and academic excellence are not just abstract ideals but lived experiences that continue to shape my path. Through music, mental health advocacy, and educational initiatives, I have strived to embody these attributes, driving positive change and inspiring others to join in this journey of discovery and impact.

My passion for community service and STEM started during my freshman year biology class when I investigated the optimum temperature for human digestive enzymes. When I found the perfect temperature and the sample bubbled into white foam in the test tube, I became fascinated with the hidden intricacies of the human body and how they could go wrong. There is a stereotype that science limits creativity. That is why I sought out scientific experiences that extend beyond knowledge simply found in books. This past summer, I joined the Aspiring Scholars Directed Research Program because I knew I liked scientific thinking and would enthusiastically take on any new challenge. I was paired with an investigator, who assigned me a research topic on the FTO gene, the human gene that causes obesity. I researched inhibition derivatives for the gene by synthesizing 3-Nitrophenypyrazole and curcumin. Working on such research was harder than I anticipated, as there are no solutions on the Internet or in textbooks to the problems I encountered. Once, I needed to evaporate acetic acid from the samples I was studying, but I burned the compounds three times in a row because of the wrong measurements. I wasn’t precise enough, and due to these tiny differences, I had to restart my experiment. After days of trial and error, I finally found the solutions that no one else had discovered and realized how much I enjoy critical thinking and problem-solving, which are valuable pieces of training for a future physician. These experiences were some of the most enjoyable of my life, as I connected with people who shared my drive and enthusiasm. The setbacks I faced in both programs taught me something about myself that I did not know: I love solving complex problems whose answers are not yet known. This research program inspired me, and I became more interested in the STEM field. The following summer, I co-founded Biology for Better (BFB), a non-profit student organization that promotes STEM education through webinars and online classes. Volunteering there, I studied the disparities in STEM education around the world. When I realized that many people lack the opportunities I have had, I was determined to help make science education more accessible, especially in developing countries. I established partnerships with schools in India, Tanzania, and Malawi to assist them with teaching. I coordinated small-group online tutorials for the students. I recruited volunteers and worked with them to create more than 200 worksheets and video lectures for the schools’ biology courses. The children our organization serves are always curious. Their eagerness inspires me because removing educational barriers helps me feel more connected to the world and demonstrates the power of putting words into action. These experiences in both laboratory research and community service have had a crucial impact on my future career. First, I became more driven to discover the mysteries of the biological world. Through experimentation and countless hours of trial and error, I aim to unlock new solutions to current challenges, specifically effective treatments for neurodegenerative disorders that interest me. Besides, I realized I love interacting with and serving people in need. In the future, my goal is to take provide care for patients. The expertise I have gained throughout the years will help me address the healthcare disparities in the world, as a lot of students do not have equitable access to quality medical services. Besides, education disparities in STEM fields are also a rising problem in underdeveloped countries. Currently, I am volunteering with BFB to expand our network so that more communities can be reached and receive small-group STEM classes.

I founded the Global Mental Health Outreach Program to challenge the stigma surrounding mental illness. I was inspired to do so after a friend attempted suicide. Students whispered cruel rumors without taking her plight seriously. Unlike other mental health organizations, mine focuses on teen-to-teen interactions. Many find talking to a peer more relatable, and they are more willing to open up and seek help. In addition to creating hours of webinars and many articles for our website, I established branches in multiple countries to plan events tailored to local needs. I recruited over 60 students worldwide, including Egypt, Bangladesh, and Romania, to assist. This diversity helps bridge cultural gaps on many sensitive topics. For example, personality disorders are considered a weakness in Nigeria, so many people are afraid to discuss them. I organized and helped create online classes on their repercussions with RehabAfrica, designed to teach about personality disorders while alleviating cultural stigmas. I also created non-judgmental platforms for people to inspire one another, gathering stories from people recovering from mental illnesses to give hope to those experiencing similar struggles. We provided them encouragement, sympathy, and understanding, along with practical resources to help, and many mentioned they were blessed to receive our kind words of support. Furthermore, I co-founded Biology for Better (BFB), a non-profit student organization that promotes STEM education through webinars and online classes. Volunteering there, I studied the disparities in STEM education around the world. When I realized that many people lack the opportunities I have had, I was determined to help make science education more accessible, especially in developing countries. I established partnerships with schools in India, Tanzania, and Malawi to assist them with teaching. These schools have large classes, and science teachers have little time for personalized education. I coordinated small-group online tutorials for the students. I recruited volunteers and worked together to create more than 200 worksheets and video lectures for the schools’ biology courses. The children our organization serves are always excited and curious. Their eagerness inspires me because removing educational barriers helps me feel more connected to the world and demonstrates the power of putting words into action. These experiences in community service have had a crucial impact on my future career. First, I became more driven to discover the mysteries of the biological world. Besides, I realized I love interacting with and serving people in need. In the future, my goal is to take advantage of the privilege I have to provide care for patients directly: diagnosing illnesses and providing treatments. The expertise I have gained throughout the years will also help me address the healthcare disparities in the world. I hope to raise awareness of this serious issue, as a lot of students do not have equitable access to quality medical services. In addition to healthcare disparities, education disparities in STEM fields are also a rising problem in underdeveloped countries. Currently, I am volunteering with BFB to expand our network so that more communities can be reached and receive small-group STEM classes. My work with BFB showed me the joy of creating projects that improve the world. Sharing my passion for healthcare helps others and makes these interests more meaningful for me, in a way that studying on my own can never do. Serving others excites me because I feel obliged to create optimism and prosperity in the world. As a pre-medical student, these experiences inspire me to create more opportunities for those in need and give back to the community as a future physician, improving people’s overall well-being.

As a Biology major, I am thrilled to embark on my journey of scientific exploration and helping people in healthcare, specifically as a future physician. I am optimistic that my future career has a strong potential in making significant impacts on the world: by sharing my passion for medicine, and my dedication to serving and improving society. My passion for community service and biology started during my freshman year biology class when I investigated the optimum temperature for human digestive enzymes. When I found the perfect temperature and the sample bubbled into white foam in the test tube, I became fascinated with the hidden intricacies of the human body and how they could go wrong. The following summer, I co-founded Biology for Better (BFB), a non-profit student organization that promotes STEM education through webinars and online classes. Volunteering there, I studied the disparities in STEM education around the world. When I realized that many people lack the opportunities I have had, I was determined to help make science education more accessible, especially in developing countries. I established partnerships with schools in India, Tanzania, and Malawi to assist them with teaching. I coordinated small-group online tutorials for the students. I recruited volunteers and worked with them to create more than 200 worksheets and video lectures for the schools’ biology courses. The children our organization serves are always excited and curious. Their eagerness inspires me because removing educational barriers helps me feel more connected to the world and demonstrates the power of putting words into action. These experiences in both laboratory research and community service have had a crucial impact on my future career. First, I became more driven to discover the mysteries of the biological world. Through experimentation and countless hours of trial and error, I aim to unlock new solutions to current challenges, specifically effective treatments for neurodegenerative disorders that interest me. Besides, I realized I love interacting with and serving people in need. In the future, my goal is to take advantage of the privilege I have to provide care for patients directly: diagnosing illnesses and providing treatments. The expertise I have gained throughout the years will also help me address the healthcare disparities in the world. I hope to raise awareness of this serious issue, as a lot of students do not have equitable access to quality medical services. In addition to healthcare disparities, education disparities in STEM fields are also a rising problem in underdeveloped countries. Currently, I am volunteering with BFB to expand our network so that more communities can be reached and receive small-group STEM classes. My work with BFB showed me the joy of creating projects that improve the world. Sharing my passion for healthcare helps others and makes these interests more meaningful for me, in a way that studying on my own can never do. Serving others excites me because I feel obliged to create optimism and prosperity in the world. As a pre-medical student, these experiences inspire me to create more opportunities for those in need and give back to the community as a future physician, improving people’s overall well-being.

I was five hours into practicing Grieg's Violin Sonata, yet the melody sounded lifeless. I had spent so many hours practicing alone that the joy had disappeared. I was on the verge of quitting altogether‒until I was invited to play in the Chordas quartet. Our first rehearsal was wobbly, our efforts sounding as lifeless as my attempts at Grieg months before. But my fellow musicians’ dedication inspired me to improve. I practiced countless hours, scrutinizing every note, polishing every measure to bring emotions and storytelling into the music. Our different ideas blended to create unique interpretations, and I discovered the true joy of creating music with others. Building on what I had learned from Chordas, and knowing that many other students struggled to find the motivation to play, I founded a 40-person string orchestra at my school, serving as both conductor and concertmaster. Our first few rehearsals were chaotic. I felt helpless. How could I unite these independent players around a single goal? I started with individual lessons, demonstrating techniques and encouraging them to play in pairs, reflect upon their playing, and help one another improve. Soon, we began to think and play as one, and confidence replaced the uncertainty of our first awkward rehearsals. After two months of practice, I led my orchestra in a competition. Thousands of eyes watched as I conducted Grieg’s Holberg Suite and we poured our hearts into the music. A year before, my resentment towards Grieg’s Violin Sonata had nearly extinguished my passion for music, but now his music sounded profoundly meaningful. Our second-place finish among seventeen orchestras gave me goosebumps. I had transformed our group from a bunch of passive individuals into spirited, engaged musicians. After I moved to California, leaving my orchestra behind, I looked for an equal purpose in my new country. I discovered it when I founded the Global Mental Health Outreach Program to challenge the stigma surrounding mental illness. I was inspired to do so after a friend attempted suicide. Students whispered cruel rumors without taking her plight seriously. Unlike other mental health organizations, mine focuses on teen-to-teen interactions. Many find talking to a peer more relatable, and they are more willing to open up and seek help. In addition to creating hours of webinars and many articles for our website, I established branches in multiple countries to plan events tailored to local needs. I recruited over 60 students worldwide, including Egypt, Bangladesh, and Romania, to assist. This diversity helps bridge cultural gaps on many sensitive topics. For example, personality disorders are considered a weakness in Nigeria, so many people are afraid to discuss them. I organized and helped create online classes on their repercussions with RehabAfrica, designed to teach about personality disorders while alleviating cultural stigmas. I also created non-judgmental platforms for people to inspire one another, gathering stories from people recovering from mental illnesses to give hope and encouragement to those experiencing similar struggles. After I launched these events, many teenagers reached out for advice on our website. We provided them encouragement, sympathy, and understanding, along with practical resources to help, and many mentioned they were blessed to receive our kind words of support. My orchestra and my work with GMHO showed me the joy of creating projects that improve the world. Sharing my passion for music and mental health both helps others and makes these interests more meaningful for me, in a way that practicing an instrument or studying on my own can never do. Serving others excites me because I feel obliged to create optimism and prosperity in the world.

I was five hours into practicing Grieg's Violin Sonata, yet the melody sounded lifeless. I had spent so many hours practicing alone that the joy had disappeared. I was on the verge of quitting altogether‒until I was invited to play in the Chordas quartet. Our first rehearsal was wobbly, but my fellow musicians’ dedication inspired me to improve. I practiced countless hours, polishing every measure to bring emotions and storytelling into the music. Our different ideas blended to create unique interpretations, and I discovered the true joy of creating music with others. Building on what I had learned from Chordas, and knowing that many other students struggled to find the motivation to play, I founded a 40-person string orchestra at my school, serving as both conductor and concertmaster. Our first few rehearsals were chaotic. People weren’t working together, and many members questioned my leadership. Why should they listen to a little freshman girl? I felt helpless. How could I unite these independent players around a single goal? I started with individual lessons, demonstrating techniques and encouraging them to play in pairs, reflect upon their playing, and help one another improve. Soon, we began to think and play as one, and confidence replaced the uncertainty of our first awkward rehearsals. After two months of practice, I led my orchestra in a competition. Thousands of eyes watched as I conducted Grieg’s Holberg Suite and we poured our hearts into the music. A year before, my resentment towards Grieg’s Violin Sonata had nearly extinguished my passion for music, but now his music sounded profoundly meaningful. Our second-place finish among seventeen orchestras gave me goosebumps. I had transformed our group from a bunch of passive individuals into spirited, engaged musicians. After I moved to California, leaving my orchestra behind, I looked for an equal purpose in my new country. I discovered it when I founded the Global Mental Health Outreach Program to challenge the stigma surrounding mental illness. I was inspired to do so after a friend attempted suicide. Students whispered cruel rumors without taking her plight seriously. Unlike other mental health organizations, mine focuses on teen-to-teen interactions. Many find talking to a peer more relatable, and they are more willing to open up and seek help. In addition to creating hours of webinars and many articles for our website, I established branches in multiple countries to plan events tailored to local needs. I recruited over 60 students worldwide, including Egypt, Bangladesh, and Romania, to assist. This diversity helps bridge cultural gaps on many sensitive topics. For example, personality disorders are considered a weakness in Nigeria, so many people are afraid to discuss them. I organized and helped create online classes on their repercussions with RehabAfrica, designed to teach about personality disorders while alleviating cultural stigmas. I also created non-judgmental platforms for people to inspire one another, gathering stories from people recovering from mental illnesses to give hope and encouragement to those experiencing similar struggles. After I launched these events, many teenagers reached out for advice on our website. We provided them encouragement, sympathy, and understanding, along with practical resources to help, and many mentioned they were blessed to receive our kind words of support. My orchestra and my work with GMHO showed me the joy of creating projects that improve the world. Sharing my passion for music and mental health both helps others and makes these interests more meaningful for me, in a way that practicing an instrument or studying on my own can never do. Serving others excites me because I feel obliged to create optimism and prosperity in the world.