Rayaan Bajwa

My time as a student at Stonehill has been one that has tested me and my resilience. I experienced Losses in family experiences with bigotry directed at me, and bouts of depression that medicine didn't seem to help, yet, I am grateful. My experiences with bigotry have helped me be extra attentive to my peers of color. My struggles with mental health have led me to reach out and support many students who struggle with the same. I have been forced to mature and deal with conflict, and intense pressure throughout these four years, and have come out stronger than I ever would have in a sheltered environment, because of the people around me. My father who teaches here, my friends who showed me support, and my professors who gave me a helping hand have all gotten me where I am today. I overcame an extremely disappointing academic start, that plagued my stress, anxiety, depression, and more, and learned to overcome to become a Dean's List student because I had people who reached out to me. It is now time for me to reach out to others. I cannot imagine where I would be without the support I mentioned and I want to ensure every student has these support systems as well as individuals who can help, and I want to put myself in a position where I can help as many people as possible.

• Acting- Performed 2 shows with Stonehill Theatre company and am in the process of another
• Sports- Was an athlete in high school and try to stay as active as possible as it helps my mental health
• Advocacy- As a person of color who faces oppression I use my voice to help the voiceless or those who are suppressed and marginalized