We asked our YAPers to reflect on an issue area they were passionate about or to share some words of wisdom with our young adults across our networks. Their stories and reflections touch on mental health, access to higher education, equity, and the workforce.
Check out our Texas Fall 2023 reflections below:
Alexiea Feaster
Stepping into the heart of Texas politics at the State Capitol in Austin, I found myself immersed in a whirlwind of passion, purpose, and the pursuit of progress. Armed with the conviction that change begins with action, I joined a group of dedicated individuals advocating for policy reforms in higher education, health care, workforce development, and civil engagement.
The gravity of the issues we were there to address weighed heavily on my mind. The current state of higher education demands attention, with accessibility and affordability at the forefront of our concerns. Equipped with statistics and personal testimonies, our group engaged with lawmakers to emphasize the critical need for policies that would pave the way for a more inclusive and affordable higher education system.
The day unfolded in a series of meetings, conversations, and presentations, with each interaction leaving an indelible mark on my advocacy journey. Witnessing the passion and dedication of fellow advocates, I was inspired by the collective power of individuals striving for a better future.
While the road to policy change is challenging, our presence at the Texas State Capitol was a testament to the belief that every voice matters. As we left the Capitol that day, I carried with me a renewed sense of purpose and a commitment to continue advocating for policies that would shape a brighter and more equitable future for all Texans.
Alexis Mitchell
Prioritizing mental health has been a significant focus for both myself and those in my surroundings. I’ve come to understand that mental well-being can either significantly impact a person’s life or serve as a driving force for success. My personal struggle with mental health was most pronounced during high school, where I grappled with mental exhaustion and low self-esteem while navigating family challenges and the demands of the high school curriculum.
During my Junior Year, I sought support through minimal counseling services offered by Legacy Community Health. In these scheduled sessions, I engaged in activities and shared my thoughts for about 45 minutes. However, I didn’t observe substantial improvement even after graduating from these sessions. Eventually, I had to accept life changes and alter my perspective without having faith in the effectiveness of the free services I received.
Access to mental health services outside of high school posed obstacles such as financial constraints, limited choices, and inconvenience. Lack of health insurance for most of my life led me to deprioritize mental health. Additionally, due to experiences of racial prejudice and health disparities, I developed a preference for black doctors in the medical field, limiting my options. The inconvenience of searching for affordable health care, coupled with the unavailability of services in my vicinity, often sapped my motivation to seek mental health care.
These past and present obstacles have fueled my advocacy for more accessible and affordable mental health care for all. I believe that breaking down these barriers is crucial in ensuring that everyone can access the mental health support they need conveniently and without financial strain.
Avery
The predominant challenge I’ve faced in higher education revolves around its affordability. Securing grant money without resorting to loans and accruing excessive debt has proven incredibly challenging. Navigating the avenues for obtaining financial aid is a daunting task, especially without guidance. It was only after my mother’s passing that I received assistance from an emergency services counselor who patiently guided me through the process. Prior to that, accessing such support seemed almost impossible, with phone wait times stretching over two hours. Personally, I delayed my college entry due to financial constraints, choosing to work and avoid excessive debt.
There’s a clear need for increased support and more accessible guidance to assist students in navigating available financial aid options. My circumstances were unique; although it might seem that one’s parents have sufficient income, in reality, there may be no communication, requiring independent filing. The process involves proving a lack of contact with that parent, adding another layer of complexity. The entire ordeal is exhaustive, time-consuming, and often disregards the complexities of family dynamics. Many students, including myself, find themselves in the middle ground, ineligible for necessary support due to this linear classification, which fails to accommodate diverse situations.
Dalaya
As a senior in college majoring in business communication and corporate education, my higher education journey has been filled with both triumphs and challenges. I reflect on the obstacles and the support that aided me in overcoming them.
One significant challenge was the transition from high school to college. Graduating in May 2022, I entered college with a foundation built on high school experiences and dual credit courses. The academic leap was substantial, and adapting to heightened expectations and rigorous coursework posed an initial hurdle. However, academic advisors and mentors proved invaluable during this transitional phase. Their guidance helped me understand college-level academics better, manage time effectively and set realistic goals. Seeking assistance early on and being proactive have been crucial to my academic success.
Another challenge I faced was balancing academics and personal responsibilities. Despite my family instilling the significance of education from a young age, unforeseen life events occasionally disrupted my academic journey. Balancing these unique challenges while staying committed to coursework required resilience and adaptability. Support systems such as counseling services and peer support groups have been essential in providing a safe space to discuss personal struggles and explore strategies for maintaining focus on my educational goals.
Financial constraints have been an ongoing challenge, given the rising costs of education. While I was fortunate to benefit from the dual credit program in high school, the financial burden of college has been a reality. Exploring scholarship opportunities, financial aid resources, and part-time employment has been instrumental in alleviating some of these challenges. However, a more robust network of financial support, including scholarships specific to my major, would have further eased the financial burden and allowed me to fully dedicate myself to my studies.
Looking back, a more comprehensive orientation program tailored to the needs of students entering college from diverse backgrounds, especially those who participated in dual credit programs, could have eased the initial transition. Providing information on available support services, study resources, and counseling options better equips students for the academic challenges they may encounter.
In conclusion, my college experience has taught me the importance of having a robust support system. Navigating the complexities of academics, personal responsibilities, and financial constraints has been possible through mentors’ guidance, professors’ support, and a proactive approach to seeking assistance. I am grateful for the lessons learned and the academic and personal growth as I approach the culmination of my college experience.
Favour
The teach-ins organized by Young Invincibles were unlike anything I had done before. While I’ve spoken in front of groups and given presentations in the past, being solely responsible for organizing and mobilizing my community to attend was a brand-new experience. Despite my natural anxiety and reservations about public speaking, I continuously exerted my best effort. Despite many moments of uncertainty, the teach-ins were successful, and seeing the tangible results was incredibly fulfilling.
Inviting friends to attend, I was proud to witness their eagerness to learn about student debt, health insurance, and the Young Invincibles program. Their ongoing interest in these topics after each event underscored the impact. Despite the stress and doubt I experienced while preparing, the process enhanced my existing skills and instilled new ones.
After delivering the health insurance and student debt teach-ins, my ability to speak confidently about issues I am passionate about significantly improved. The experience lessened my anxiety about public speaking and equipped me to effectively advocate for change in my community. My time as a Young Advocate for the Young Invincibles program allowed me to grow in unexpected ways, and I am grateful for the opportunity and its positive impact on my life.
Hadi
Participating in groups like Phi Delta Epsilon, a medical fraternity, proved invaluable in navigating the challenges of higher education and charting a course toward medical school as a first-generation student. Through my involvement in this fraternity, I not only found a supportive community but also discovered avenues to align my interests with my academic and professional goals.
Phi Delta Epsilon became a platform for me to explore and harmonize my passions with my academic pursuits. Within this medical fraternity, I connected with like-minded individuals who shared a common enthusiasm for the medical profession. This not only fostered a sense of community but also provided opportunities to engage in activities aligned with my interests.
One such endeavor involved investigating metabolic levels following physical inactivity. This project allowed me to merge my academic curiosity with my fascination with the human body’s response to exercise and inactivity. The collaborative and supportive environment of the fraternity facilitated the study of such interests by offering resources, mentorship, and a platform for meaningful research.
These experiences not only enhanced my academic journey but also introduced me to a community that nurtured and championed my unique interests. Exposure to research within the fraternity broadened my perspective on the medical industry, solidifying my commitment to a career in medicine while also enabling me to pursue specific aspects of my academic curiosity.
In essence, the connections forged within organizations like Phi Delta Epsilon served as catalysts for personal and academic development. These groups not only provided a crucial support network for navigating the challenges of being a first-generation student but also presented opportunities to integrate my passions into tangible experiences, resulting in a more enriching and well-rounded educational path.
Janeya Wilson
“The vestiges of racial bias in America are so pernicious and challenging to eradicate that we must utilize all available remedial measures,” stated the Honorable Thurgood Marshall, the first Black American to hold a seat on the United States Supreme Court. As I contemplate Justice Marshall’s words, I also consider the existence, or lack thereof, of education policies designed to redress, rather than merely address, both the remnants and continuities of systemic racism and anti-Blackness in education.
At present, institutions of higher education find themselves at a historic crossroads, where race-conscious admissions are deemed unconstitutional, and diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives face intense scrutiny and opposition. Political resistance to rectifying racial discrimination has hindered institutions from pursuing equitable practices that address racial injustice. Despite the uncertainty and political challenges confronting higher education, it may seem tempting to adopt a risk-averse approach. However, I argue that now, more than ever is the time for universities to overhaul and rejuvenate their approaches to racial equity. The entrenched presence of racism necessitates an unwavering commitment to improving access and opportunity for marginalized students.
Despite the illusion of equal opportunity, systemic racism persists in higher education. Black students are significantly underrepresented in the nation’s most selective institutions. My institution, the University of Texas at Austin, was the only public university in Texas still considering race as an admissions factor. UT Austin has a minimal percentage of Black students, despite Texas having the highest Black population in the country. Texas recently passed a bill banning diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts in higher education. I have firsthand experience with the detrimental effects of systemic racism—I am the only African American student in my cohort, and my department lacks any Black women professors. While diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives and affirmative action are not the sole solutions to racial equity, eliminating their presence unequivocally impedes progress. If the acknowledgment of racial discrimination and subsequent remedies face strong opposition, we should challenge the underlying factors rather than conceding. Now is not the time for universities to retreat but to commit to using every resource to dismantle policies and procedures that perpetuate experiences like my own and those of many others.
Linley
In the dimly lit room, the hands of the analog clock moved slowly, reflecting my visible exhaustion. The late hour weighed heavily on the packed space, where weariness hung in the air. Dark circles marked each pair of eyes, and a mix of emotions—dread, anxiety, anger, and lingering hope—filled the atmosphere. My journey began at a small Gulf Coast community college, armed with an associate’s degree in Speech Communication and aspirations of becoming a professor at UT Austin.
However, Senate Bills 17 and 18 disrupted my path. SB 17 threatened to close Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion offices, making teaching DEI challenging, while SB 18 aimed to eliminate tenure at state colleges. These changes jeopardized my dream, intensifying the uncertainty in the room.
As the night progressed, testimonies highlighted the potential exodus of educators from public institutions in Texas. Two professors in my college had already sought jobs out of state. Was Texas higher education unraveling before my eyes? In the charged room, surrounded by concerned citizens, I grappled with the realization that legislative decisions could reshape higher education in Texas, imperiling my professorial aspirations.
Amidst despair, three familiar faces—Dr. Lynda Villanueva, Dr. Victoria Marron, and Dr. Douglas Walcerz from Lee College—stood in the room. Their commitment to advocating for students against the bills rekindled hope. If leaders from an underfunded community college could passionately fight, so could I.
As a Messenger for the Texas House of Representatives, I witnessed the legislative process, unknowingly preparing for the moment my principles were under threat. The House Committee on Higher Education convened at 8 am and, at 1:25 am the next day, the fight persisted. I embraced the challenge, realizing the collective effort to preserve higher education’s essence.
Standing at the edge of my academic journey, I acknowledge the need for expertise in higher education leadership and policy. This realization fuels my passion for making higher education a more accessible and equitable place for everyone.
Micahel Zimako
Hello, my name is Micheal Zimako, and I’m a junior at the University of St. Thomas majoring in Computer Science! In my community, mental health isn’t often acknowledged, especially for the youth. Coming from an African heritage, the prevailing belief is that if you’re going through a tough time, you should turn to God or a higher power, as spiritual means can fix everything. In my household, there’s a narrative that young people haven’t faced enough challenges to experience negative mental health; we weren’t there for the “old days” when life was supposedly more challenging.
Despite awareness of young people losing their lives to suicide, there’s a cultural mental health stigma that attributes these problems solely to the older generation.
I believe this cultural mental health stigma can be challenged. Personally, due to this stigma, I never believed in going to therapy or taking days for self-care. However, my perspective changed this September when I was robbed at gunpoint. While I am grateful to be alive, the incident left me anxious and paranoid. Random scenarios of danger would flood my mind, particularly at night. A friend suggested therapy, and despite initial hesitation, I gave it a try. It turned out to be a positive experience.
This led me to realize that combating stigma begins with sharing stories. By openly discussing our experiences, we can gradually break down the stigma around mental health. Letting people know that it’s okay to seek help is crucial and can be a lifesaver.
Nmeso
Throughout my life, I’ve grappled with severe anxiety, a struggle that traces back to my childhood and persisted as I faced life’s challenges. The feelings of being trapped only intensified with experiences like the global pandemic, my health issues, and significant life changes such as starting college. Despite sensing that I was slipping, seeking mental health care was not a priority until the consecutive passing of both my grandmothers left me with nowhere else to turn.
Uncertain about where to start, I decided to reach out to my university’s counseling and psychological services program. Despite initial hesitations based on others’ opinions, I am grateful that I took the chance. I had been convincing myself that if I pushed through and focused on academics, I would be fine until summertime. However, I didn’t realize how close I was to the edge and how unsustainable and unhealthy that mindset was. The service I received wasn’t perfect, but seeking treatment at that critical moment likely made a significant difference in my life.
While there is always room for improvement, the key is to enhance accessibility and raise awareness about available resources during times of need. As I plan to attend medical school and become a Pediatrician after college, I am convinced that prioritizing mental health care for all populations is crucial for a healthy society. Neglecting mental health conditions in childhood not only strains an individual’s development but also burdens an already weakened health care system. If we continue to neglect the mental health of our pediatric populations, the foundation of a functioning society will be at risk.
Rayne
I often heard when I was younger that going to college and obtaining a degree would ensure a stable life in society. However, my current experiences have made me reconsider this perspective. Pursuing a higher education degree has presented numerous challenges, particularly concerning financial struggles. Financial aid covers only a fraction of the costs, forcing me to work two part-time jobs to afford college. Consequently, I am accumulating significant debt for a degree in a field that may not yield a high income.
Managing multiple jobs while attending classes has proven to be a demanding task, and it seems that professors may not always comprehend the juggling act. The obstacles to achieving the ideal of higher education, including financial burdens and time constraints, are substantial. I believe addressing these challenges requires exploring options like reducing college costs or providing alternative opportunities for gaining experience in chosen fields. Additionally, considering a fair and higher wage for individuals in the workforce could significantly alleviate the financial stressors associated with pursuing a degree.
The current minimum wage is insufficient for individuals to survive, let alone pay back college debt. Raising the minimum wage could potentially eliminate the need to work multiple jobs just to afford basic necessities. As someone aspiring to be a teacher, I am aware that this profession typically offers one of the lowest incomes. It’s disheartening to think that even with a degree, I might need to take on another job to make ends meet. The minimum wage must be adjusted to reflect the current economic landscape, offering individuals a realistic chance to pay back student loans.
The intersection of higher education and the workforce is evident, and both systems require reform. Addressing these issues collectively, by making college more affordable and ensuring fair compensation in the workforce, is essential for creating an environment where individuals can pursue their education and careers without the constant worry of financial instability.
Safa
Working with Young Invincibles this fall semester, I gained valuable insights into its four main policy areas: health care, the workforce, higher education, and civic engagement. While all areas provided valuable experiences, the one in which I felt I learned the most and gained significant experience was the civic engagement campaign.
Throughout the semester, we emphasized the importance of young adults actively participating in the political system and engaging in the voting process. Our discussions allowed us to share and hear personal stories about the challenges and limitations individuals face when it comes to voting, particularly impacting marginalized communities.
One highlight was learning about various organizations and groups dedicated to civic engagement and increased political participation. For instance, we heard from Rideshare2vote, a Texas-based group focused on providing rides to the polls, effectively bridging the gap in voting accessibility and equity. Discovering such innovative options was inspiring, as it expanded my perspective beyond traditional methods of increasing civic engagement.
Engaging in hands-on activities, particularly text banking training, allowed me to make a tangible impact. It was incredible to reach hundreds of people in a short time as a young advocate, providing information on voting and voter registration. Knowing that our efforts were reaching people across Texas and seeing the tangible impact reinforced the sense that we were making a difference.
This experience not only deepened my understanding of civic engagement but also allowed me to connect with activities that resonated with my passion. Experiencing unique avenues and solutions to real societal and democratic challenges expanded my horizons. Being part of the process of making a positive change and encouraging others to get involved was a privilege, and I feel fortunate to have had this opportunity with Young Invincibles.