Personal Statement

I began to realize the importance of focusing on youth and their development when I was in high school. During that time, I volunteered at a behavioral health agency working primarily with kids on the autism spectrum. Through therapy sessions and interacting with the kids, I realized my passion for making a positive impact on children's lives. As part of the Teen Ambassador Board in partnership with the Ohio Attorney General's office, I worked with peers to change policies that affected youth.

In college, I continue this passion by leading Sports Pals, an after-school program where kids learn life lessons through sports. Sports Pals provides youth with a supportive environment, while helping them develop critical leadership and life skills. After graduation, I hope to become a child psychologist with a specific focus on mental health. Youth can experience mental illness, particularly depression and suicidal ideations at a young age. It is important that we create policies and programs that allow youth to share challenges in an environment where they will be believed and supported.