Hi, my name is Jordan Daniel, and I’m a proud double major in Psychology and Sociology at UCLA.

I grew up in a low-income neighborhood where surviving came before dreaming. At 16, I was a victim of direct gun violence, which shook my whole world and almost kept me from ever making it to UCLA; however, by the grace of God, HE gave me the mercy to proceed. That moment created a barrier not just physically, but emotionally and mentally. I kept showing up for school, for my community, and for myself because I believed that something better was possible.

Now that I’m here, my work is more than academic; it's personal and purposeful. My passion for mental health is rooted in the pain of seeing too many people in my community that I love carry trauma with nowhere to put it. I was often the listener, the emotional support, the one people turned to while struggling to find resources for my own healing. That’s what drives me to create change: I want to build a future where communities like mine have access to care, compassion, and real solutions.

Right now, I’m reaching out for support. I recently found out that my summer room and board $6,000 total isn’t covered by my scholarship, and the full amount is due by September 1st. I’ve secured a summer job, but it’s low-paying and not enough to meet the cost in time.

It’s hard to ask for help. I never want to feel like I’m begging. But I’ve learned that strength includes knowing when to lean on others and I’m leaning on the community that’s helped carry me this far.

Every contribution no matter how small truly helps. If just 200 people gave $30, I’d be fully funded. Your donation goes directly to my housing and meals so I can stay on campus, stay focused, and stay in position to graduate and give back in a way that matters.

Whether you can donate or simply share this with your network, thank you. Thank you for believing in me, and in the impact I hope to make.

With deep love and gratitude,

Jordan Daniel

#UCLA #SupportStudentSuccess #HealingThroughEducation #MentalHealthMatters