Support Shana’s Journey in Becoming a Psychiatric NP

I never imagined I’d be in this position; facing the incredible opportunity to attend Yale and the challenge of asking for help to get there. Looking back on my journey, I realize how much of it has been about advocating for myself and others. Growing up, I learned that care isn’t always guaranteed. I had to fight for what I needed long before I had the words to do so, navigating a world where support wasn’t always there. Those early challenges made me resourceful, resilient, and deeply committed to ensuring others don’t have to struggle just to be heard, seen, or cared for.

That’s why I became a social worker. I’ve worked with refugees, unhoused individuals, and people who have been left behind by systems meant to support them. Over time, I saw the same patterns: policies that don’t account for real-life struggles, healthcare that doesn’t acknowledge culture, and gaps in care that cost people their well-being. I realized I needed to be in the room where decisions about healthcare are made, where I can create change both at the bedside and within the system itself. Nursing is where I can do that. Yale’s program will give me the tools to bridge public health and direct care; to advocate in ways I couldn’t before.

However, as much as this opportunity excites me, the reality is that the cost of tuition and living expenses is overwhelming. While I have applied for scholarships and financial aid, most of the options at the graduate level are loans. I am willing to take this on because I know this path is worth it, but I also know that any support, big or small, can make a real difference. I’d be deeply grateful for any help, whether it’s a donation or simply sharing this with others. Thank you for reading, for believing in me, and for being part of this journey.