Navigating the Road to Graduation: Lessons in Leadership and Purpose
As I close the chapter on graduate school at Cal State East Bay, I’m excited to reflect on the path that’s brought me here. Recently, I received a perfect score on my comprehensive exam, a milestone that feels especially rewarding as I juggle my responsibilities. Maintaining a 3.8 GPA while working full time, leading a nonprofit, and staying connected with my community wasn’t easy, but completing this degree makes me feel accomplished and ready for what’s next.
Looking back, my journey began during my undergrad at San Francisco State University. I commuted long hours, worked full time, held two internships, and managed a full academic load. I graduated with a dual degree and a minor, and while I didn’t always know how I managed it, it taught me one crucial lesson: if I’m committed to something, I can make it work, even when it seems impossible.
In the years since, I’ve worked full time, been promoted twice, and stepped into leadership roles that have provided invaluable experience in upper management. These roles reinforced my belief that policy is all about people and the communities we live in. The best policies aren’t just the ones written into legislation; they’re the ones we live out every day, supporting one another, showing up, and creating spaces where everyone feels like they belong. It’s this approach that I’m bringing to the work I do with SAMA.
Starting SAMA, Survivors Advocating for Mental Health Awareness, was born from lived experience and a deep desire to create something that directly serves individuals who face challenges I’ve also encountered. Balancing school, work, and running a nonprofit has been tough, but it’s where I’ve felt the most fulfilled. The work I do with SAMA ties directly into the lessons I’ve learned throughout my academic journey and my professional career, where I constantly see the importance of compassionate leadership and authentic connection.
One of the most powerful takeaways from my graduate studies was the concept of reflective practice, which I explored in my final paper. Reflecting on my own experiences, both academic and professional, has helped me understand my strengths and areas for growth. It reinforced a core belief that leadership is about showing up for people and communities, not just holding a title. That’s the foundation I’m building SAMA on, leadership that is rooted in understanding, care, and advocacy.
Looking ahead, I’m more confident than ever that I can create the impact I’ve always dreamed of. The lessons I’ve learned in school, leadership, and nonprofit work have prepared me for what comes next. I look forward to making SAMA a space where people feel safe, heard, and supported. Once I graduate this weekend, SAMA will be in full force, and I’m excited to continue working alongside my community to create a welcoming, inclusive space for all.
This journey has proven to me that I can do anything I set my mind to, and that’s a belief that will continue to drive me as I move forward, both in my personal and professional life.
