ASF: Where are you currently working? Tell what you do and how being a FFL helped you to obtain and maintain your current leadership position.
Angel: I am currently a doctoral student in counseling psychology at Auburn University. Being a FFL helped me obtain and maintain this current role because it allowed me to learn my true passion areas. The fellowship’s focus on addressing health disparities and identifying areas where the need is greatest shaped how I currently do the work that I do. My current program includes a competency area in social justice, both in research and practice. The fellowship allowed me to gain perspective in this area by detailing a plan, connecting with community leaders, and obtaining hands-on experience and training. This helped me obtain my current role because without it, I am not sure I would have been fully able to communicate and recognize multiple perspectives in addressing health concerns.
ASF: What was an unexpected gain from participating in the fellowship?
Angel: An unexpected gain from participating in the fellowship are the connections I made. Although I knew I would meet and learn from new people (fellowship mentors, cohort members, fellowship site leaders, etc.), I did not consider the possibility of lifelong connections. For example, I still have a great relationship with and talk to the ASF of Alabama executive director. I am also still in contact with my fellowship site mentors. Another expected gain I received from participating in the fellowship was the ability to research before putting a plan into action. An instance of this is the early assignments where we reviewed current literature and identified needs to help us gain perspective for projects.
ASF: Why did you choose the context of your Fellowship?
Angel: I chose the context of my fellowship because I wanted to address and raise awareness of mental health concerns in Black women. I was somewhat aware of the concerns through research and personal ties, but I figured a community service project would grant me the direct opportunity to learn more.
ASF: What advice do you have for current Fellows who may be struggling with certain disappointments they are experiencing in their project execution?
Angel: Advice: When you are looking to create change and make an impact, disappointments are inevitable. However, do not let that deter or discourage you from pursuing your interests. You have these passions for a reason, so remember your “why.” Do not try to execute the project on your own. Make connections and collaborate with community and ASF leaders. Also, lean on your fellowship cohort members because you are all ultimately trying to do the same thing, even if the project focus is different. Fellows for Life (FFLs) are a great resource, so figuring out how to get connected with them might also be helpful. To this point, scroll through projects on the ASF website from previous years to gain a sense of how and where to start. Do not be afraid to ask questions and take up space.
ASF: What is one word that you would use to describe the ASF program? And why did you choose that word?
Angel: One word I would use to describe the ASF program: Insightful
I chose this word because as I reflect on my experience, insight was at the center of everything I did. When we have these big dreams and goals, it can be difficult to navigate roadblocks in the process of implementation. However, those roadblocks are an opportunity for growth and insight. I gained insight and perspective working with Black women and girls through various activities, which informs a lot of my current work. Additionally, I gained insight into how to implement a community service project, making connections with community leaders, fellowship leaders, and others. Most importantly, I gained insight on how to use my voice to speak up for causes that matter most to me.