The awful reality of domestic violence weighs heavy on my heart. Being a victim myself, I know firsthand the profound impact it can have on a person's life. At the age of 15, and again at 19, I faced the terrifying experiences of domestic violence. This trauma led to years of depression and anxiety, shattering my trust in others, becoming fearful of men, and leaving me worried about entering new relationships. The psychological scars, including PTSD, depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, and trust issues, run deep for survivors of domestic violence. It is unacceptable that awareness and discussions surrounding this issue remain insufficient. Every day, countless individuals suffer in silence, afraid to speak out due to fear, judgment, or lack of support. It is a truth that pains me deeply, knowing that not only I, but many of my close friends have experienced this form of abuse. I refuse to remain silent any longer. Raising awareness is crucial to combating the prevalence of domestic violence. My goal is to educate women and men about this issue, shedding light on the causes, signs, and available resources. It is important to dispel any myths or misconceptions surrounding domestic violence through education. By sharing this knowledge through conversations, public speaking seminars, and encouraging dialogue, we can empower others to join the fight against domestic violence. I am committed to supporting victims by participating in support groups and dedicating my time as a volunteer. With the rise of technology, social media provides various platforms for raising awareness. Online discussion groups can serve as safe spaces, where survivors can share their stories anonymously and find solace and support from fellow victims. By connecting survivors and a sense of community, we can empower individuals to break their silence and speak their truth. I strongly believe in the power of education and aim to collaborate with educational institutions to develop workshops and awareness programs for students, teachers, and parents. Through these initiatives, we can emphasize the importance of respect, consent, and recognizing signs of abuse. By instilling these values at an early age, we can reduce further cases of domestic violence. Additionally, I plan to encourage domestic violence education within school curricula and workplace training programs. By teaching individuals about healthy relationships, we can empower them to recognize and respond effectively to domestic violence incidents. Together, we can create a society that prioritizes empathy and non-violence. To bring about meaningful change, I aim to work with community leaders and write to legislators, urging them to enact stronger laws and policies that will protect survivors and hold perpetrators accountable. By addressing the systemic issues that contribute to domestic violence, we can advocate for a safer society. But raising awareness begins at home. I will initiate conversations within my close circles—family, friends, and colleagues—to foster dialogue and provide resources for victims. By engaging in these discussions, we can create a ripple effect, spreading education and support for those in need. As I pursue my master's degree in clinical psychology, I am driven by my desire to work with individuals who have endured psychological disorders and mental illnesses, including trauma from domestic violence. Through my academic journey, I will gain the knowledge and skills necessary to assist patients in their healing process to help them reclaim their lives once again. Raising awareness about domestic violence demands an ongoing effort from individuals, communities, and institutions. Together, we can raise our collective voice to challenge societal norms, support victims, and work to prevent and eradicate domestic violence. Let us stand united in this fight to strive for the well-being and safety of all.

Embarking on my college journey after high school, I was eager for new opportunities, experiences, and personal growth. However, I soon discovered that college life was quite demanding and time-consuming. To succeed academically, I spent countless hours studying, reading, and writing. Although achieving academic success was my main priority, I realized that my well-being was equally as important. Finding a balance between my mental and physical wellness and my education was essential to becoming a successful college student. To take care of myself in college, I developed a well-rounded routine by scheduling my responsibilities and activities to manage my time effectively. Creating schedules allowed me to designate times for studying while also prioritizing healthy activities like going to the gym, cooking healthy meals, spending time with my peers, and getting enough sleep. Having this structure in my daily life helped me stay organized to make time for both school and my well-being. The pressures that accompany college life can be stressful and take a toll on mental health. To maintain my well-being, I researched effective strategies to help cope with feelings of stress and anxiety. For 30 minutes a day, I engaged in yoga and meditation practices to help me relax, stay grounded, and regain focus and mental clarity. The impact it had on my well-being was transformative and improved effectiveness in my studying and learning abilities. Social interactions are valuable in maintaining personal wellness. Each week, I prioritize spending time with my friends and family. I cherish the relationships I have with my loved ones greatly, as our strong connections fill me with immense joy and a sense of belonging. My friends and family provide me with essential emotional support, boosting my confidence not only in academics but also in various aspects of life. Spending quality time with them contributes to my happiness and reinforces my success as a college student. Taking care of my well-being has positively influenced my academic performance in college. Making time for activities outside of my coursework played a key role in maintaining personal wellness and stability. Implementing a solid routine to effectively manage my time was crucial to creating a harmonious balance between college and a healthy lifestyle. My academic and emotional success has enlightened me on the importance of taking care of my mind, body, and soul. My academic journey helped me recognize that personal wellness is the cornerstone of academic success. The impact of establishing a well-rounded routine, stress management techniques, and nurturing social connections resulted in my academic achievement and a sense of fulfillment. As I continue my studies, I will ensure that my mental and physical health is not overlooked. I am committed to reaching my full potential as a college student and prioritizing my mental wellness. Through discovering the significance of personal wellness, I feel prepared to face the challenges and demands of college life with perseverance and a positive mindset. As I continue my academic journey, I am devoted to taking care of my well-being, knowing that personal wellness is the key to unlocking success in all areas of my college experience and beyond.

The alarming rise of gun violence in America demands immediate attention. This pressing issue has been pushed aside and ignored for far too long, requiring urgent action. As an instructor in the special education department at an elementary school, I have witnessed the devastating impact of school shootings on my fellow educators, children, and society. No child should fear going to school, and parents should not worry about their child's safety. My deep concern to bring an end to gun violence is fueled by the devastating events that have occurred due to the easy accessibility of guns. Every child deserves to feel safe in their learning environment. I am determined to contribute to a future free from the fear of gun violence through my efforts and commitment to raising awareness. While I have not experienced gun violence directly, the anxiety and fear it instills have had a profound effect on me and those around me. The need to combat this issue is continuously reinforced by news reports of school shootings, witnessing its traumatic impact on students and parents. Recognizing gun violence's negative impact on the lives and well-being of the children I work with, addressing this issue is a moral obligation I cannot ignore. As an educator, I seize every opportunity to raise awareness about the devastating consequences of gun violence. I integrate open discussions and activities into my curriculum, fostering empathy, critical thinking, and dialogue among my students. Although they are young children, It is important to educate them at an early age about the consequences of their actions and the danger of firearms. These valuable conversations will help cultivate a society of respect and non-violence. Collaborating with administrators, teachers, and parents, I strive to implement comprehensive safety protocols to protect our youth. By continuously improving and updating these procedures, we can create an environment where students feel safe and prioritize their education. As an advocate for strong safety measures, I aim to inspire other schools worldwide to adopt similar protocols and raise awareness on a larger scale. Moreover, as an individual involved in extracurricular activities such as archery, tennis, and bowling, I understand the benefits of promoting healthy and constructive outlets for our youth. Engaging in sports and recreational activities can help redirect their energy and foster teamwork, promoting positive social interactions between children. Additionally, I also enjoy skateboarding, hiking, baking, and shopping for vintage apparel and antiques. Through these hobbies, I can engage in meaningful conversations and share knowledge to raise awareness among friends and community members about gun violence. Furthermore, my involvement in Youth and Government, an organization at the YMCA I attended in high school, has equipped me with essential leadership and advocacy skills. By leveraging this experience, I aim to amplify my voice and actively engage in legislative processes to advocate for stricter gun control regulations, mental health support, and comprehensive violence prevention measures. As a Psychology major pursuing a career in mental health, I am committed to promoting mental well-being and providing coping mechanisms to those in need. Recognizing the strong connection between psychological problems and gun violence, I hope to contribute to a safer society by addressing underlying issues and supporting individuals struggling with mental illness. Gun violence is a nationwide crisis that requires our dedication to eradicating its devastating impact. We must fight for strict regulations and policies concerning firearms, while also prioritizing mental health support. My career as an educator and mental health advocate allows me to create awareness, implement comprehensive safety measures, and foster a future where every child can learn and grow without the fear of gun violence.

Growing up lower income, my single mother worked long hours to support my brother and I while simultaneously providing us with love and care, despite our limited resources. In high school, I worked multiple jobs to make ends meet and alleviate the financial burden on my mother. As high school was nearing its end, I acknowledged the value of a college education and decided to enroll. I was unsure what to study but understood I needed a degree if I wanted financial stability through work. I wished to provide my for mother, just as she did for her children. This solidified my decision to attend college and earn my degree to support my family. I couldn't fathom how expensive tuition was nor could I afford it, so I attended my local community college. During college, I was presented with an opportunity to work at a school in the special education department. Only having experience with work at retail and restaurant jobs, feelings of imposter syndrome and anxiety consumed me. But I knew that if I didn’t accept this opportunity, I would deeply regret it. I courageously applied and received the job. Being an advocate for children with special needs changed my life. The work ignited my passion for teaching disabled children, leading me to discover my interest in Psychology. I found myself immersed in the depths of the mind, mysteries of the human psyche fascinated me. My newfound interest led me to declare my major in the field of Psychology. As I worked with special needs children, learned that individuals with disabilities grapple with social, emotional, and cognitive challenges, leading to misunderstanding and isolation among classmates. They struggled to fit in and regulate their emotions due to the complexities of their conditions. To help them navigate these challenges, I taught coping strategies for when they felt angry or sad, as well as social skills to utilize when interacting with peers. Additionally, I created posters and lessons to educate students on disabilities, raising awareness in our youth. Despite the challenges, working with these kids brought moments of shared laughter and hugs and fostered numerous cherished memories. I am grateful for the opportunity to impart skills that will accompany them forever. Devoting myself to my community's school was a rewarding experience. The gratification derived from making a difference in the lives of disabled children is unparalleled. Additionally, my experience exposed me to the reality that disabled communities face. I witnessed acts of discrimination and negative stigmas from their classmates, which led to exclusion from multiple activities. This discrimination extends beyond children and continues into adulthood. As a Psychology major, my mission is to become an advocate for this community. I will guide individuals with disabilities toward self-love, confidence, and a sense of belonging. I plan to help strengthen their social, emotional, and academic skills. I aspire to create a supportive community for the disabled, where friendships can blossom and open discussions are held within a safe space. Spreading awareness about disabilities is vital. I aim to utilize the knowledge I gain through my education and experiences to promote meaningful change. Upon graduating, I will provide my guidance and resources to individuals and families facing challenges through counseling, group therapy, and community outreach to provide support to the disabled population. My passion for Psychology outweighs my financial worries. Although my time in college will be time-consuming and difficult juggling a full-time job and school, I am confident about pursuing my career goals. To conduct work and research about disabilities after graduation is my dream, and I plan to work tirelessly to achieve this.

The steps to recovering from addiction are incredibly challenging but do not need to be faced alone. With the assistance of medical providers, therapy, addiction counselors and support groups, the journey back to sobriety is achievable. Recovery gives individuals struggling with substance abuse a chance to reheal the mind, body, and soul. My personal experience with addiction ingrained in me a deep understanding of what it truly means to recover from an addiction. Sobriety has inspired me to be a guide and advocate for those who are struggling with substance abuse. My descent into addiction began with the encounter with a highly addictive pill that ensnared me in its grip. Initially, I only engaged in taking substances among friends. However, my dependence began to escalate, leading me to secretly purchase drugs to satisfy my cravings in solitude. Day after day my addiction grew deeper, seeking to hide the feelings of sorrow and anguish festering within me, all while concealing this painful secret from my friends and family. Months passed until the realization dawned upon me that I was caught in a deep addiction, wasting my life away by getting high to silence my dark thoughts and pain. Sobriety was a lifeline, an opportunity to break free from the chains of addiction. It commenced with a pivotal moment of truth, where I mustered the courage to tell my mother about my ongoing addiction. A week after confessing, I was on a flight headed to Georgia to live with my father. This difficult act of vulnerability marked the beginning of my journey toward sobriety. The early stages of recovery were filled with agony, as I dealt with the physical and emotional effects of withdrawal symptoms. Countless nights were spent wide awake with anxiety, yearning for the solace that substances once provided. I knew deep down that I couldn't go down that path of darkness again, and persevered through the pain. Although it was challenging, I understood that becoming sober was a chance to heal and rediscover the essence of who I was again. Recovering from addiction was not an easy journey. I was prescribed multiple anxiety and antidepressant medications and attended numerous vulnerable therapy sessions to better understand the complexities of my mind and cultivate healthier coping mechanisms. My father and I established a stronger relationship with each other, despite my outrages and mood swings while experiencing withdrawal symptoms. The support he provided me coupled with the therapy sessions and medication gave me strength as I gradually started to recover from my addiction. Throughout the long process of recovery, I learned profound life lessons that have forever altered my perspective of life. I discovered the power of resilience as I confronted my anxiety and depression head-on, without having to further rely on substances to numb myself. Additionally, I realized the importance of embracing and acknowledging my emotions, whether they were sorrow, anger, or happiness. Emotions are all an integral part of the human experience and should be acknowledged, rather than numbed with substances. My experience allowed me to discover what ignited a passion within me—the desire to study Psychology to help others who are dealing with the same struggles I once faced. I am dedicated to becoming a beacon of hope for those who are lost in the darkness of addiction. With my personal experience, I aspire to support individuals in their journeys toward recovery, offering my empathy, understanding, and a testament that healing is possible. Recovering from substance abuse has fueled my aspirations and determination to make a difference in the lives of those affected by addiction and mental health struggles.

My name is Tracy Selby. I'm 23 years old and live in San Diego, CA. I grew up with my mother who immigrated from Japan to America to pursue her Psychology degree. My mother and father met in Okinawa, where he was stationed during his time in the military. I love being half-Japanese and embrace my cultural heritage with pride. My parents split up when I was 3 years old. I spent my elementary days in a tiny one-bedroom apartment with my mom and brother. Despite growing up lower income, I truly cherish my early childhood memories. I was an incredibly introverted child growing up and still consider myself to be. Despite enjoying being in the company of my friends and family, I find peace in solitude. Listening to music in my bedroom, reading books, drawing, and watching old films were some of my favorite things growing up and still are. When I first enrolled at my local community college, I had no idea what I wanted to major in. I was envious of my fellow high school classmates that knew what career they wanted to pursue and had colleges lined up, ready to apply to. Making that big of a life changing decision was something I wasn't quite ready for yet, so I spent my first couple of years in community college taking general education courses, hoping to find something that sparked my interest. During college I worked at a retail job for about 3 years. Eventually, an opportunity arose through a friend about an open position at a local elementary school. I never worked with children prior, causing feelings of imposter syndrome and anxiety. But I knew If I turned down the opportunity, I would deeply regret it. I claimed the job and there I was, making copies of worksheets and watching kids during recess to make sure they weren't kicking balls at each other or running on the blacktop. I loved working with children, but the job didn't allow me to engage with them academically very much. As the school year ended, my boss offered me a role in the special education department. I eagerly accepted, and that is where I discovered my passion for Psychology. I worked with special needs children teaching lessons, social skills, and managing behaviors. Working as a special education assistant filled me with further curiosity about human behavior and the mind. After my work experience, I was confident about declaring my major in Psychology. I took my prerequisite courses to transfer and a couple of months later, was accepted into a university. My focus now lies within Clinical Psychology, to observe and conduct research on cognitive disorders, mental health, and addiction after graduating. Living in one of the most expensive cities in the US, I have consistently struggled to maintain financial stability and worked full-time jobs since the age of 16 to make ends meet. Now entering university, my financial struggles have significantly increased. With the combination of rent, gas, food, books, and tuition, I will need to work full-time both at work and in college. I plan to pay for my education through grants, student loans, and my paychecks. After my parents got divorced, I visited my father on the east coast during my school breaks. We went on long road trips each summer, blasting CD after CD of his favorite bands: Black Sabbath, ACDC, Metallica, and Judas Priest. I memorized lyrics to songs I never would have listened to in a million years if it wasn't for my dad. I can still remember the strange looks I received from adults as a child when I recognized heavy metal songs back from their own childhoods. I grew up to love heavy metal, my favorite band becoming Black Sabbath. I still have my dad's XL Black Sabbath jacket he got from their concert when he was my age hanging in my closet. Listening to heavy metal brings back warm memories, holding a very close place in my heart.

At the age of 16, I received a diagnosis of generalized anxiety and major depressive disorder. During my early childhood years, I possessed a vibrant and inquisitive personality. Engaging in a variety of sports and creating numerous friendships throughout elementary school brought me immense joy. However, as I matured, my extroverted nature gradually deteriorated, and I turned into a reticent and introverted individual, increasingly withdrawing into myself. I struggled to comprehend how my persona could undergo such a profound transformation within a few short years. The activities that once filled me with delight lost their appeal, and I found solace in solitude rather than seeking social interaction. Approaching high school, my poor mental health became glaringly apparent, impeding my ability to seize various opportunities. I felt outcasted from my classmates, who exuded confidence, popularity, and enthusiasm for attending school to revel in the company of friends. Conversely, I kept my head down and internalized my thoughts. Every day, I eagerly waited for the school day to end so I could hide away in my room and succumb to hours of depression-induced napping. By my sophomore year, my mother grew increasingly concerned, observing the unmistakable signs of my emotional turmoil. I secluded myself frequently, retreating to the confines of my bedroom for hours on end, emerging only when necessary. My relationship with my mother had been marked by frequent clashes and discord. Though she only wanted to help me, I pushed her away, often feeling irritable and annoyed whenever she broached the topic of my emotions or questioned my lack of social interaction with her or my brother. It was not because I lacked love or desire for their companionship, but rather due to my overwhelming aversion to being around anyone at the time. Eventually, my mother begged me to seek professional help from a psychiatrist. The prospect of revealing my innermost feelings terrified me. Anxiety and depression had become so ingrained in my existence that expressing them felt like an admission of weakness, evoking shame within me. I mustered up the courage to discuss the state of my mental health with my psychiatrist and was prescribed antidepressants after our appointment. In addition, my mother urged me to spend a semester with my father in Georgia, who resided there at the time. The transition of moving in with my father and commencing a new medication proved arduous. I was thrust into an unfamiliar environment and school, a prospect that unnerved me given my fragile mental state. After a few weeks under my father's care, I began to experience the positive effects of my medication. My anxiety significantly decreased and I was generally happier than before. I started to rediscover the ability to derive enjoyment from life once again. I also commenced therapy, where I learned various coping strategies such as journaling, meditation, physical exercise, reading, and reducing my screen time. This combination of newfound techniques, coupled with the medication, yielded unexpectedly favorable results. I delved into new hobbies like running, thrift shopping, ceramics, and writing. I forged friendships at my new school in Georgia, engaging in extracurricular activities such as attending basketball games and socializing outside of school. Astonishingly, I even received an invitation to prom—a scenario I never fathomed in a million years. Life once again became a source of pleasure, reminiscent of my carefree childhood days. With the semester's end and the arrival of summer, I returned to San Diego to live with my mother again. Witnessing the profound transformation in me, our relationship was restored to its former closeness. I felt like myself again after losing my sense of identity for so many years. I was finally happy. My experience with years of uncured depression and anxiety throughout my formative years proved to be formidable challenges. However, they also served as catalysts for self-discovery. I realized that shutting myself off from the world only exacerbated my mental health struggles, but fostering social connections and pursuing hobbies provided me with happiness. For the longest time, I believed that I found peace in isolation, but deep down, I was truly lonely, yearning for meaningful relationships with others. Additionally, I comprehended the profound impact that the appropriate medication can have on the human mind. Mental health should be taken with utmost seriousness, as its debilitating impact can significantly diminish one's quality of life. Those grappling with depression should seek assistance and guidance to enhance their well-being and rediscover the joys of existence. As someone who has personally endured the hardships of mental health challenges, I understand the daunting task of reaching out for help. Admitting to depression and the struggle to find happiness can be accompanied by shame and difficulty. The obstacles I faced during my adolescent years and subsequent journey to recovery have instilled in me a passion to pursue a career centered on mental health and disabilities. I am driven to become an advocate for individuals grappling with these issues, aiming to contribute to the transformative change of their mental health. Through my pursuit of a degree in Psychology, I aspire to offer guidance and support to anyone fighting the consequences associated with poor mental health. Normalizing open discussions about mental health is crucial to creating an environment where people feel comfortable seeking the help they require. Struggling individuals can find renewed purpose in life through various methods and techniques including therapy, medication, and other coping mechanisms that can help foster an improved mental state. As I reflect on my experiences, I am filled with gratitude for the support and resources that enabled me to regain my joy and vitality. My journey has ignited a passion within me to become an advocate for mental health and to be a guiding light for those who find themselves in the darkness of their battles. With an education in psychology and a desire to create change, I am determined to contribute to a world where conversations about mental health are normalized and compassionate support is readily available to everyone.

As I wrapped up my senior year of high school in 2017, the weight of deciding my future career path loomed over me. It wasn't until I enrolled in Psychology 101 that everything fell into place. I found myself engrossed in the enigmatic depths of the human mind, where the mysteries of the human psyche beckoned me toward an extraordinary journey of empathy, understanding, and transformation. With an unwavering determination to make an impact on the lives of those facing adversity, I set out on a quest to unravel the intricacies of mental health. This newfound passion for understanding human behavior inspired me to pursue a career in Psychology, with a focus on mental health, illuminating a path toward compassion, resilience, and holistic well-being. Now a dedicated 3rd-year college junior at San Diego State University, I am fully committed to the study of Psychology. It is within this field that my passion thrives, as I delve into the depths of mental disorders, substance abuse, and the challenges faced by individuals grappling with cognitive and socioemotional impairments. My commitment to this pursuit stems from my desire to support those facing these challenges and empower them to reclaim their lives. In parallel to my studies, I have immersed myself in a tapestry of real-world experiences as a special education aide in my community's elementary school. Here, amidst the kaleidoscope of challenges faced by children with autism, ADHD, and other disabilities, I have witnessed the awe-inspiring resilience and untapped potential that lies within these children. Collaborating with a team of educators, I play a vital role in cultivating a nurturing and inclusive environment that fosters growth, development, and the blossoming of self-confidence among these children. From designing personalized educational plans tailored to each child's specific needs to facilitating the growth of social skills and emotional well-being, I contribute to the transformative journey of these exceptional kids. It brings indescribable joy to witness their progress as they acquire stronger cognitive skills, forge meaningful social connections, and embrace the full spectrum of their potential. These profound experiences, coupled with my passion for studying psychology, have solidified my dedication to supporting individuals struggling with mental health and disabilities as my chosen career path. As I continue my studies, my hunger for knowledge and yearning to be an advocate for mental health grow stronger with each passing day. I am fully devoted to delving into the complexities of these disorders, refining my skills as a compassionate advocate, and championing the cause of mental health awareness within our society. With an unwavering passion and a genuine desire to uplift and strengthen my community, I envision a future where every individual can thrive and flourish. Upon graduation, I aspire to utilize the knowledge gained through my education, skills, and experiences to effect meaningful and necessary change. I aim to serve as a guide for struggling individuals, providing tailored support, counseling, and resources to those facing various challenges. By breaking down barriers, combating stigma, and fostering a culture of understanding and empathy, I hope to empower individuals to reclaim their lives and rewrite their narratives on their journey to well-being. Through my education and experiences, I plan to improve and strengthen my community by dedicating myself to providing support and resources to struggling individuals and families. Through individual counseling, group therapy, and community outreach, I aim to dismantle the barriers preventing people from accessing the care they need and deserve. By promoting mental health awareness, education, and destigmatization, I strive to create a more inclusive and compassionate society that values the well-being of all its members.