Social work by Joaquin

Social work by Joaquin - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

My name is Joaquin Gutierrez, and I am a sophomore at Oral Roberts University, majoring in Social Work. I am honored to share my story and vision for pursuing a career in mental health. As a Hispanic man, I have seen firsthand how mental health issues can affect individuals and communities, and I am determined to make a difference.

Growing up, I noticed that mental health was often a taboo subject in my community. Many people, including my own family, did not feel comfortable talking about their struggles or seeking help. This silence only made the problems worse, and I saw how it affected the people I cared about. It was heartbreaking to see friends and family members suffer in silence, feeling isolated and misunderstood.

This experience sparked my interest in mental health and motivated me to pursue a degree in Social Work. I want to be someone who can break the silence and provide support to those in need. I believe that everyone deserves to have their voice heard and to receive the help they need to lead fulfilling lives.

At Oral Roberts University, I have been fortunate to learn from professors who are passionate about social justice and mental health advocacy. My studies have deepened my understanding of the complexities of mental health issues and the importance of culturally sensitive approaches. I am learning how to address the unique challenges faced by diverse communities, especially those that are often underserved.

With a current GPA of 3.7, I am committed to excelling academically and gaining the skills necessary to make a meaningful impact. My goal is to work as a mental health counselor, focusing on helping Hispanic and Latino communities. I want to create safe spaces where individuals feel comfortable sharing their experiences and seeking support.

One of the most significant differences I aspire to make is increasing access to mental health resources for marginalized communities. Language barriers, cultural stigma, and lack of resources often prevent people from getting the help they need. I want to work towards breaking down these barriers by offering bilingual services and advocating for more inclusive mental health policies.

I also hope to raise awareness about the importance of mental health and reduce the stigma associated with it. By educating communities and sharing stories of resilience and recovery, I believe we can change perceptions and encourage more people to seek help. I want to be a voice that empowers others to speak up and take control of their mental health journey.

In the future, I envision creating community programs that provide mental health education and support. These programs would be tailored to the specific needs of Hispanic and Latino communities, incorporating cultural values and traditions. By doing so, I hope to foster a sense of belonging and understanding, helping individuals feel more connected and supported.

I am also passionate about advocating for policy changes that prioritize mental health care. I believe that everyone should have access to affordable and effective mental health services, regardless of their background or financial situation. By working with policymakers and community leaders, I hope to contribute to a more equitable and just mental health care system.

In conclusion, my pursuit of a mental health degree is driven by my desire to make a positive impact on the lives of others, especially those in underserved communities. I am committed to breaking the silence around mental health, increasing access to resources, and advocating for change. With the support of the 2K Annual Drug Rehab USA – Mental Health Scholarship, I am confident that I can achieve these goals and make a lasting difference in the world. Thank you for considering my application.