My name is Jasmine Philon, and I come from Miami, Florida, a city that has shown me both the vibrancy of urban life and the stark realities of inequality. Growing up, I witnessed how systemic challenges such as homelessness, gentrification, and a lack of affordable housing directly impacted individuals and families in my community. These experiences shaped my desire to make a meaningful impact in the fields of urban planning and economics. I am passionate about addressing these issues and creating sustainable, equitable environments where everyone can thrive. I realized how important gentrification was at a young age, when I saw members of my own community being pushed out of their homes and forced to move or sell. These were people who had built their lives and memories in these neighborhoods, only to lose them to rising costs and development that did not include them. One moment that solidified my awareness of this issue was when my old high school principal proposed rebuilding our historically Black school—but not to serve the Black and African American students in the neighborhood. Her vision for the school did not represent the history or culture of the community, and it was clear that she did not understand, or perhaps did not value, what it meant to us. Growing up in a single-parent household, I experienced firsthand the challenges of economic instability. I remember times as a child when our water would be turned off for days, sometimes weeks, and we had to use bottled water to bathe or brush our teeth. There were nights when we didn’t have electricity, relying on candles and flashlights to move around the house because my mother couldn’t afford the light bill. Those hardships shaped my understanding of what it means to live without the basic necessities that many take for granted. These personal experiences fuel my commitment to addressing systemic inequities in urban planning. In combating homelessness, I plan to focus on creating housing-first models that provide individuals with safe, stable housing as a foundation for addressing other challenges they face. By collaborating with local governments, non-profits, and community leaders, I hope to implement programs that integrate housing with supportive services such as mental health care, job training, and education, empowering individuals to regain stability and independence. I also aim to tackle gentrification by developing community-centered solutions that balance progress with preservation. I am passionate about advocating for policies that prioritize affordable housing and prevent displacement while encouraging sustainable growth. Sustainability is another key component of my vision. By prioritizing green infrastructure, expanding public transportation, and designing inclusive spaces, I hope to promote both ecological and social well-being. What drives me most is the belief that everyone deserves access to a safe, stable home and a supportive community. My personal journey has taught me the value of advocacy, empathy, and determination, and I am committed to using these qualities to create equitable and sustainable urban environments. Through my work in urban planning and economics, I aspire to transform cities into places where everyone, regardless of their background or income level, can access opportunities, live with dignity, and be part of a thriving, inclusive community.

In my everyday life, I strive to exemplify a spirit of excellence by remaining committed to my personal and academic growth, embracing opportunities to uplift others, and using my experiences to positively impact my community. Excellence, to me, is not just about achieving individual success but about continuously learning, growing, and empowering those around me to do the same. One of the ways I strive for excellence is through my academic pursuits. As a psychology major, I dedicate myself to understanding human behavior and mental health, knowing that this knowledge will allow me to help others overcome challenges in their own lives. I apply myself fully to my studies, constantly seeking to understand complex theories and concepts, while striving to improve my skills both in and outside the classroom. This dedication extends beyond my academic journey, as I believe that growth is a continuous process, and I seek to always better myself. Excellence also means being a responsible and engaged member of my community. I consistently look for ways to give back to those around me, whether it's through mentoring, volunteering, or simply being there for people who need support. As someone who has faced personal challenges, I understand the importance of empathy and the power of showing up for others. One of the ways I give back is by being an active member of organizations on my campus, such as Crown Her, a mentorship program for Black female college students. Through this program, I support my peers by offering guidance, sharing my experiences, and helping to foster a sense of belonging and empowerment. Another way I give back is by working with organizations that aim to uplift marginalized communities. I’ve been involved with local initiatives that focus on mental health awareness, especially in underrepresented populations. I believe that mental health is often neglected in these communities, and I want to help bridge that gap by raising awareness and providing resources. I’m passionate about making mental health support accessible to everyone, regardless of their background or socioeconomic status, because I know how transformative it can be to receive the right care. Lastly, I strive for excellence in the way I approach my relationships. Whether it’s my family, friends, or colleagues, I believe that treating others with respect, kindness, and empathy is essential. I have learned that a spirit of excellence goes beyond individual accomplishments—it’s about fostering an environment where others can excel as well. By supporting those around me and uplifting my community, I hope to inspire others to pursue excellence in their own lives and encourage them to give back in whatever way they can. Through my commitment to academic achievement, community service, and personal growth, I strive to exemplify a spirit of excellence every day. I firmly believe that excellence is a shared responsibility, and through my actions, I aim to inspire others to continuously improve themselves and contribute to the betterment of our community.

My personal journey with veganism has been intertwined with my growing awareness of social justice issues, particularly the impact of environmental degradation on marginalized communities. When I first transitioned to a vegan lifestyle, it was primarily due to concerns about animal rights, but over time, I began to see how veganism also intersects with broader social issues, including environmental justice and the inequities that affect low-income communities, especially BIPOC. At first, my decision to go vegan was a personal one. I was motivated by the ethical treatment of animals and the desire to align my eating habits with my values. I never realized that my choice would have such a profound impact on my understanding of the world and the interconnectedness of various social justice movements. Through my studies and personal reflection, I learned that animal agriculture is a major contributor to climate change, which disproportionately affects marginalized communities, especially those in low-income neighborhoods. These communities often live in food deserts, lack access to nutritious, plant-based food, and are most vulnerable to the environmental hazards caused by industrial farming, such as polluted air and water. My awareness grew as I started to see the broader implications of my food choices, and I began to connect veganism with environmental and racial justice. I realized that the same systemic inequalities that lead to exploitation in the animal agriculture industry also contribute to environmental racism. For example, factory farms are often located in or near low-income communities, many of which are predominantly Black and Latinx. These communities are subject to the health risks of air and water pollution caused by the waste from these farms. This realization fueled my passion for veganism, not just as an individual choice, but as part of a larger movement for social justice. One of the most pivotal moments of growth in my journey occurred when I volunteered at a local community garden. There, I learned about sustainable agriculture and how growing food in an eco-friendly, ethical way can create positive change. I realized that by promoting plant-based eating, I could help combat the environmental impact of industrial farming while also supporting local communities and providing access to healthier food options. My veganism now intersects with my passion for mental health advocacy. I’ve learned that many people in marginalized communities struggle with both environmental and mental health challenges due to stress, trauma, and a lack of access to nutritious food. I believe veganism can play a role in alleviating some of these struggles by promoting better health outcomes and creating sustainable, healthier food systems. I’ve shared my journey with friends, family, and peers, encouraging them to consider how their food choices can contribute to both their well-being and the well-being of the planet. Veganism has transformed my everyday actions. It has taught me to make conscious choices, not only in what I eat but in how I engage with social justice issues. From supporting ethical food systems to advocating for more equitable access to healthy foods in underserved areas, my commitment to veganism is deeply connected to my desire to make a positive impact on the world, especially for those who are often marginalized and overlooked.

One of the greatest challenges my family faced when coming to the United States was the language barrier. My parents, both immigrants, moved here seeking better opportunities for their children, but adjusting to a new country with a language they did not fully understand made even basic tasks incredibly difficult. As non-English speakers, they struggled to navigate a society where communication was key to accessing jobs, healthcare, and even basic services. This challenge wasn’t just about language—it was about the cultural differences and the feeling of being outsiders in a country they hoped would offer a brighter future. From a young age, I became the bridge between my parents and the outside world. I had to interpret for them at doctor's appointments, parent-teacher conferences, and while interacting with officials at banks or government offices. I helped them fill out forms, understand important documents, and communicate with others when their English wasn’t strong enough. Although this responsibility was daunting, it became a vital part of my upbringing. It shaped my perspective on the importance of communication, advocacy, and the role of language in access to opportunities and resources. It also taught me patience, as I learned how to explain things in a way that could be understood without creating confusion or frustration. This experience also exposed me to the vulnerabilities that immigrants face when they don't have the tools to thrive in a new environment. I saw how my parents, despite their intelligence and work ethic, were often overlooked or dismissed because they couldn’t express themselves as fluently as others. This made me keenly aware of the challenges that many immigrants face—not just in terms of economic hardships, but in terms of feeling invisible or voiceless. As I grew older, I realized how much the language barrier impacted my family’s ability to fully participate in society. They were limited in their job prospects, and their ability to access healthcare, education, and other vital services was compromised by their lack of proficiency in English. The sacrifices my parents made to ensure a better life for us have shaped who I am today. I watched them struggle and work tirelessly to provide for us, and it instilled in me a deep sense of resilience and responsibility. They showed me that no matter how tough the circumstances, perseverance can lead to success. Their unwavering determination to overcome the obstacles they faced motivated me to pursue my own dreams, and to help others facing similar struggles. As I work toward my degree in psychology, I want to take the lessons learned from my family’s experience and apply them to my career. I aspire to work in communities where language and cultural barriers prevent individuals from receiving the support they need, especially in mental health services. My goal is to use my education to help those who feel marginalized, helping them break through the barriers that prevent them from accessing care. My family's experience has shown me how essential it is to understand people’s unique needs and to be empathetic in offering assistance. This challenge of growing up in a bilingual immigrant household has given me the tools to persevere through obstacles, but also the understanding of the importance of advocacy and support. It has fueled my desire to create a world where language and cultural differences are seen as assets rather than limitations, and where everyone, no matter their background, has the opportunity to thrive.

Coming from a single-parent household has shaped my resilience and determination. Growing up in a low-income environment, I faced challenges like limited resources and financial instability. My mother worked tirelessly to provide for me and my siblings, but despite her efforts, we often struggled to make ends meet. These circumstances taught me the importance of hard work, perseverance, and advocating for myself. Despite facing bullying, a learning disability, and the emotional impact of my parents' divorce, I was determined to succeed. I knew that my struggles didn’t define me, and I used them as motivation to overcome obstacles. These experiences led me to pursue a degree in psychology, as I want to help others facing similar challenges, especially in marginalized communities. I am passionate about providing mental health support that is accessible, relatable, and culturally competent. Growing up in a single-parent household also exposed me to the emotional toll that financial instability can have on families. This has inspired me to use my education to advocate for mental health resources for those who may not have access to adequate care. In addition to my academic journey, I’m actively working toward my goals by participating in the Crown Her mentorship program at Virginia State University, which helps Black women navigate their academic and professional paths. I also plan to volunteer with programs like the Nomi Girl Volunteer and Dream Mentorship programs to give back to my community and guide others who face similar struggles. I am committed to using my life experiences to make a positive impact. By sharing my story, advocating for mental health care, and uplifting others, I hope to inspire resilience and create opportunities for change in my community and the world.

My name is Jasmine Philon, and I am a 19-year-old psychology student from Miami, Florida. Growing up, I faced numerous challenges that deeply influenced my understanding of mental health and its importance, especially for marginalized communities. From being bullied, struggling with a learning disability, and coping with the emotional fallout of my parents’ difficult divorce, I often felt isolated and inadequate. These experiences pushed me to turn inward, leading to maladaptive daydreaming and, at one point, harmful coping mechanisms like eating toilet paper. Over time, I began to recognize the power of mental health care—not only in my personal healing but also in creating safe spaces for others who may feel unseen and unheard. I chose to pursue a degree in psychology because I want to provide support to individuals, particularly in marginalized communities, who face unique challenges and often lack access to culturally competent care. Marginalized communities, including BIPOC individuals, frequently encounter systemic barriers to mental health services, such as cultural stigmas, financial obstacles, and a lack of representation within the mental health profession. These barriers contribute to feelings of disconnection and discourage people from seeking help. As someone who has experienced these struggles firsthand, I am determined to make a positive impact by offering services that are compassionate, accessible, and culturally responsive. My experience with mental health has profoundly shaped my beliefs, activism, and career aspirations. It has taught me the importance of advocacy, representation, and breaking the stigma surrounding mental health. I believe everyone deserves a safe space to express their feelings and seek help without judgment or fear. In my future career, I plan to create programs and initiatives that address the specific needs of marginalized communities. I want to offer therapy that validates their experiences and equips them with tools to heal and thrive. By addressing systemic issues such as intergenerational trauma, racism, and socioeconomic disparities, I hope to empower individuals to reclaim their mental well-being and see their worth beyond societal labels. Through my studies and personal journey, I have learned that healing is possible when people feel supported, understood, and valued. My goal is to use my story and my skills to inspire others, showing them that their struggles do not define them and that they are capable of achieving greatness. I am committed to turning my passion for mental health into actionable change, using my education and lived experiences to uplift and support those who need it most. Together, I believe we can create a future where mental health care is not a privilege but a right for all.

Mental health has always been a significant topic, but it is often one that people avoid. We live in a world where many feel they must suppress or hide their struggles for fear of being labeled as weak or crazy, even though that is far from the truth. My name is Jasmine Philon, I’m 19 years old, and I have experienced firsthand the complexities of mental health. As a child, I faced bullying, a learning disability, and the pain of my parents’ messy divorce. I was shy, scared to stand up for myself, and often felt like an easy target. Words became darts, and I was the dartboard—absorbing every punch without knowing how to defend myself. I constantly questioned, “Why do people treat me this way? Why can’t I speak up for myself? Why wasn’t I good enough to keep my father from leaving?” These experiences shaped my understanding of mental health and my desire to help others navigate their own challenges. I turned to maladaptive coping mechanisms, such as excessive daydreaming, and later developed harmful habits like eating toilet paper to cope with my emotions. Over time, I realized the importance of mental health and the need for support systems that empower individuals to heal and thrive. These challenges are why I have chosen to pursue a degree in psychology. For BIPOC individuals and communities, access to mental health services is especially critical. Historically, these communities have faced systemic inequalities, cultural stigmas, and a lack of representation in the mental health field. These barriers often discourage individuals from seeking help or leave them feeling misunderstood when they do. I believe that increasing culturally competent mental health services can break down these barriers and provide BIPOC communities with the support they deserve. As a future psychologist, I want to create safe spaces where individuals feel seen, heard, and validated. Representation matters, and as a Black woman, I hope to inspire others to embrace mental health care as a path to healing and empowerment. Through my studies, I aim to develop strategies that are evidence-based and tailored to the unique needs of diverse populations. By addressing systemic challenges such as intergenerational trauma, racism, and socioeconomic disparities, I hope to foster resilience and promote mental well-being within BIPOC communities. My journey has taught me the importance of compassion, understanding, and advocacy. I am committed to using my degree in psychology to make mental health care more accessible, relatable, and effective for all, especially for those in communities that have historically been overlooked.

Mental health has always been a significant topic, but it is often one that people avoid. We live in a world where many feel they must suppress or hide their struggles for fear of being labeled as weak or crazy, even though that is far from the truth. My name is Jasmine Philon, I’m 19 years old, and I have experienced firsthand the complexities of mental health. For as long as I can remember, I have struggled with my mental health. As a child, I was bullied, faced challenges with a learning disability, and watched my parents go through a painful and messy divorce. I was shy, scared to stand up for myself, and often felt like an easy target. Words became darts, and I was the dartboard—absorbing every punch without knowing how to defend myself. I constantly questioned, “Why do people treat me this way? Why can’t I speak up for myself? Why wasn’t I good enough to keep my father from leaving?” As a child, I didn’t understand much about the world, but I blamed myself for everything. I believed I wasn’t worthy of love, and that self-doubt created a deep void. To cope, I developed an escape—a world of vivid fantasies where I could feel safe and in control. I later learned this was maladaptive daydreaming, a proposed mental health condition where excessive daydreaming interferes with daily life. When reality became too hard to face, I would retreat into my imagination. For instance, when I was retained in the second grade, I felt left behind as my classmates moved on. To cope, I created a vivid fantasy: I imagined attending high school with my older sister, where a private teacher in a hidden basement classroom taught me one-on-one. I lived in this imaginary world for an entire school year. For a time, it felt real, and it gave me a sense of peace that reality couldn’t. But no matter how safe my internal world felt, external challenges always found a way in. Social media became a significant source of pain. I compared my life to the curated highlight reels of others and felt increasingly worthless. Even people I thought were my friends made it clear that I didn’t fit in. A teammate once told my mother that I was “a good person” but “not fun or cool enough.” That comment stung deeply. Desperate for relief, I turned to an unusual coping mechanism: eating toilet paper. From sixth grade until recently, it became a craving and a way to fill the emptiness I felt. It wasn’t until December 31, 2024, that I decided to take control. As of today, I am 11 days clean. It hasn’t been easy, but I am proud of the progress I’ve made and remain committed to my journey toward healing. My experiences with mental health have shaped my goals, relationships, and understanding of the world. They have taught me that everyone carries invisible struggles, and compassion is vital. My journey has inspired me to pursue a career in psychology, where I hope to help others navigate their mental health challenges and find the strength to heal. I believe that sharing my story can encourage others to embrace their own journeys without shame. I want to show that it’s okay to seek help, to struggle, and to rise above adversity. Through my work and advocacy, I hope to break the stigma surrounding mental health and create spaces where people feel seen, heard, and supported.

My name is Jasmine Philon, and I am from Miami, Florida. I graduated from Arthur & Polly Mays Conservatory of the Arts in 2024, where I studied Theatre. Throughout high school, I embraced leadership, community service, and academic excellence. I served as Class President all four years, graduated in the top 15% of my class with a 3.7 GPA, and was a Silver Knight candidate in the Social Science category. My involvement extended to serving as President of the National Honor Society, a cabinet member of the Student Leadership Board, and an ambassador for my school. Outside the classroom, I pursued my passion for athletics as a Track & Field athlete and Baton Twirler—activities I’ve dedicated myself to since I was a child. I balanced these commitments with my role as a full-time babysitter and pet sitter, internships at Gild Adult Daycare, and volunteer work with Kevin Chambliss’s office in the Florida House of Representatives. I was also honored to work with Congresswoman Frederica Wilson, receiving a Congressional Award in recognition of my efforts, and was presented the Future Leadership Award by Luisa Santos. I was equally active in my Miami community, participating in Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorparated mentoring program, the Ivy Rosettes. Over the years, I held several leadership roles, including 9th Grade Telephone Tree Representative, 10th Grade Secretary and Birthday Coordinator, 11th Grade Vice President, and 12th Grade President. These experiences strengthened my dedication to service, mentorship, and uplifting others. Now, as a freshman at Virginia State University majoring in Psychology with a minor in Sports Management, I am building on this foundation. My ultimate goal is to become a sports psychologist and also practice clinical psychology. I aim to help athletes overcome mental health challenges and thrive both on and off the field. I have already joined Crown Her, a mentorship program for Black college women, and am actively working to plan my first campus event. I also aspire to contribute to initiatives like the Naomi Girl Volunteer Program, Dream Mentorship Program, running for Miss Kappa Alpha Psi, as well as pledging a sorority myself. Growing up with a learning disability has taught me resilience, creativity, and determination. It has been a driving force in my passion for psychology and in my desire to support others who face challenges of their own. By sharing my journey, I hope to inspire others to see their potential and achieve greatness, no matter the obstacles. In all that I do, I strive to make a positive impact in my community and the world. I want to show people who look like me that success is attainable and that they, too, can thrive despite challenges. Through leadership, mentorship, and service, I am committed to creating opportunities for others and fostering environments where everyone can excel.