It is my belief that many people are often least supported in areas that truly matter, such as mental health and real-world preparation. These are two aspects of life that will always coexist together and require balance in order to thrive. If one’s mental health is in decline, their ability to approach the world’s demands and requirements are deeply affected, and vice versa.I have previously worked with youth and young adults in marginalized minorities, to help support them through mental health crises and challenges in their lives when they may otherwise have no one. This work has driven me to my recent degree in Psychology to become an emergency crisis counselor. Seeing the growth that can exist by someone expressing belief in a person is extraordinary. Often, not having supportive people in their corners can be the biggest barrier in the lives of individuals, leading to hopelessness, drug reliance, and other ways to numb the hurt from lack of support. I want to make sure those at-risk individuals realize they are cared for and believed in. To see someone begin to believe in themselves is a type of magic that is incomparable.My past experiences, and my personal journey to believing in myself and overcoming mental health struggles, comes together to craft real-life examples I can share to foster connection that feeds the community feel. This relation can help to bridge the gap and foster trust with those in your facility, opening them up to potential opportunities they may not be receptive to coming from those they can’t relate with.I believe I can be a part of the change that so desperately needs to occur and help shape the lives of those who have no one to lean on and feel severely misunderstood.