Meet Your Support Squad!
Dylan Cole
President
Major: Biomedical Science and Spanish / Psychological Sciences Minor
Pronouns: he/him/his
Hometown: Mesa, Arizona
Yooo! I’m Dylan! I’m a student of the Interdisciplinary Global Program (IGP) planning to study abroad during the 2022-2023 academic year and graduate in Spring 2024. I’m a practicing Christian, an avid hiker, snowboarder, and I’m a spoken word poet with a huge interest in literature, philosophy, and writing!!!
I am passionate about mental health wellness, and am looking to offer myself to people in a manner allowed by my current scope of knowledge through peer mentoring. In the future, I aspire to expand my scope and practice in psychiatry following a medical school track.
Olivia Vaerini
Vice-President
Major: Elementary Education / Psychological Sciences Minor
Pronouns: she/her/hers
Hometown: Rancho Cucamonga, California
Hi friends! My name is Olivia, and I am an Honors student pursuing an Elementary Education major. I will be graduating in Spring 2023. I plan on beginning my career as a teacher and eventually getting my Master’s and Doctorate in Educational Psychology to become more involved in advocating for mental health awareness among the tiny humans!
I am very passionate about mental health because it is something that I have dealt with as well as something that a number of my family members and friends have dealt with for years. I joined the Mental Health Support Squad so that I can help work toward breaking the stigma associated with mental health needs. I believe that this is something that nobody should be ashamed of dealing with, and by breaking the stigma, I feel that students will be more willing to come forward and share their experiences.
Alyssah Kennemer
Secretary
Major: Elementary Education (emphasis in Science)
Pronouns: she/her/hers
Hometown: Surprise, Arizona
Hi everyone! My name is Alyssah and I am a junior studying Elementary Education with an emphasis in science. I will be graduating in Spring 2022 and will then hopefully head back to school to teach middle school science. I love painting by numbers, dogs, making playlists, and going on drives. My favorite way to take care of my own mental health is having alone time to journal.
Mental health education has become a huge passion for me over the last few years and it is something that I want to actively practice both in my classroom and in my life. I have been through my own mental health struggles and have had those close to me endure them too. Breaking the stigma, having open and honest conversations, and learning more about how to approach mental health has encouraged me to seek help and help others to seek help as well.
Allison Newman
Treasurer/Event Planner
Major: Psychological Sciences / Sociology Minor
Pronouns: she/her/hers
Hometown: Temecula, California
Hello! My name is Allison (Allie) and I am a junior graduating in Spring 2021. I want to become a school counselor and eventually open up my own practice to help kids. I also participate in undergraduate research and work on campus. I like to be outdoors, snowboard, and go hiking.
I am passionate about mental health because of personal hardships and experiences, and I want to help others that feel like they are in the same position as I once found myself. I hope that I can use what I learn through my involvement in the Mental Health Support Squad to become a better supporter, friend, student, and family member.
Edrick Vazquez
Public Relations Manager
Major: Biomedical Science / Art Minor
Pronouns: he/him/his
Hometown: Goodyear, Arizona
¡Hola! I’m Edrick and I have been attending NAU since Fall 2018. I chose NAU because I fell in love with the weather and the beautiful views that Flagstaff has to offer. In my free time, I am either creating some form of art, watching a horror movie, or vibing to chill music. In the future, I plan to become a cosmetic plastic surgeon as my career and a fashion designer as a side hustle because I’m passionate about both science and art.
I joined the Mental Health Support Squad because I want to be there for others when they are feeling alone and need someone to talk to and for those who are seeking help for specific mental health issues. I also want to bring more awareness about mental health issues to society in general in order to help reduce the stigma. I have dealt with, and continue to navigate, my own mental health issues and have always found it helpful when someone else was there for me. I would like to be that person for others who are seeking support.
Xochilt Aguiniga
Major: Psychological Sciences (BA)
Hometown: North Hills, California
Hello! My name is Xochilt |So-chi-l| and I am a Psychological Sciences major with a language requirement in Spanish. I am planning to graduate in Spring 2021. I want to earn my degree and become a counselor, working in underserved communities such as Hispanic communities and communities with large veteran populations. In addition to being a Mental Health Support Squad member, I am also a member of the NAU Psychology Club.
Growing up the daughter of Mexican immigrants and in Hispanic communities, I am always pushing for mental health support in communities that have a lack of these services.
¡Hola! Mi nombre es Xochilt y estudio psicología y español. Estoy planeando graduarme en la primavera de 2021. Quiero ser consejero y trabajar en comunidades desatendidas, como comunidades hispanas y comunidades de veteranos. También soy miembro del club de Psicología en la universidad.
Siendo la hija de inmigrantes mexicanos y viviendo en comunidades hispanas, siempre estoy presionando por el apoyo de salud mental en comunidades que tienen una falta de estos servicios.
Sage Bohner
Major: Psychological Sciences / Social Science Forensics Minor
Pronouns: she/her/hers
Hometown: Bay Area, California
Hey! My name is Sage and I am a Psychological Sciences major. I am planning to graduate in Spring 2024. I am not exactly sure what I want to do yet, but I know I am interested in pursuing a career that involves psychology, whatever that may be. When I am not in school, I love being outdoors, and I also like to play the drums.
I am passionate about mental health because I don’t think there are currently enough available resources. In the school where I came from, there was a lot of pressure and not enough resources to help with student mental health. I am hoping that I can be part of the solution and help make mental health resources more accessible for everyone.
Kendall Chapman
Major: Exercise Science
Pronouns: she/her/hers
Hometown: Mesa, Arizona
Hello friends! My name is Kendall and I am an exercise science major within the Honors College, working diligently to become a teacher/professor within the anatomical sciences for pre-healthcare careers. Aside from being a member of the Mental Health Support Squad, I am a teacher’s assistant in the anatomy and physiology labs on campus, I am co-president of the Badjacks dance club, and I am an avid participant in Intervarsity Christian Fellowship. I also coach gymnastics to the greatest kids in the world and tutor students at Coconino Community College.
I am extremely excited to be acting as an advocate for mental health. I have struggled with understanding my own mental health quite frequently, and I know many friends and students who face day-to-day challenges with it. If we, as students, can find common ground where we sometimes see none, and lift each other up through the storms that are veiled, I believe we can break the mental health stigma that binds us, and better understand ourselves. I hope to offer a listening year to anyone who needs it. Thank y’all for your time!
Brooke Claverie
Major: Psychological Sciences / Anthropology Minor
Hometown: Los Angeles, California
Hi there! My name is Brooke and I’m a Psychological Sciences major who will be graduating in Spring 2022. I’m pursuing a career in research with a focus on neuropsychology.
I care about mental health partially because of my major, but also because I understand how it feels to need a friend in a time of stress. I want to be that friend for anyone who needs me because no one should feel alone, especially when they’re feeling down. Through my involvement in the Mental Health Support Squad, I hope I can provide support for students, the campus community, and anyone else who may need it.
Ananda Cook
Majors: Psychological Sciences / Biology Minor
Pronouns: she/her/hers
Hometown: Kailua Kona, Hawaii
Aloha! My name is Ananda, and I am a student studying Psychological Sciences with an emphasis in Neuroscience. I am planning to graduate in Fall 2022. I want to attend graduate school and pursue a career in the field of cognitive and behavioral psychology. I like to go hiking and hang out with my friends. I am a first generation college student and also a first generation American.
I am a member of the Mental Health Support Squad because I want to help support my university community in understanding the importance of mental health and how it impacts our daily lives. I have experienced living in a culture where mental health is not considered important and I want to help others who have had similar cultural experiences to become more open and understanding of mental health struggles.
Hannah Dahl
Major: Criminal Justice / Psychological Sciences and Social Work Minors
Pronouns: she/her/hers
Hometown: Corona, California
Hey! My name is Hannah, and I’m a Criminal Justice major with minors in Psychological Sciences and Social Work. I will be graduating in Spring 2023.
I care about mental health because I have had my own problems and have seen the detrimental effects that can take place if mental health issues are ignored or neglected. I think it’s important to have someone to talk to in stressful and/or troubling times. I would like to be that person for others because being or feeling alone at any time is disconcerting. I joined the Mental Health Support Squad to help people who are struggling and just to offer my support!
Kaelyn Darst
Major: Public Health / Health and Wellness Coaching Minor
Hometown: Chino Valley, Arizona
Hello! My name is Kaelyn and I am studying Health Sciences here at NAU. I changed my major from Graphic Design to Public Health earlier this year, and I will be graduating in Spring 2022. When I graduate, I want to work in the field of maternal and child health helping young children and expectant parents with important health challenges including nutrition, emotional wellness, physical fitness, growth, development, and many other things. I love camping, fishing, babies, animals, and talking to people about pretty much anything!
I joined the Mental Health Support Squad to help my fellow students, friends, and family with their struggles and to become an advocate of mental health who can provide resources to those looking for guidance.
Jerusalen De La Rosa
Majors: Biomedical Science and Comparative Cultural Studies / Chemistry and Japanese Minors
Pronouns: she/her/hers
Hometown: Avondale, Arizona
Hello! Konnichiwa! Hola! My name is Jerusalen and I am an IGP student studying Biomedical Science and Comparative Cultural Studies. In the future, I plan to pursue a career in Optometry and continue to share my mental health journey. When I’m not working, I love to paint, meditate, and binge watch Netflix or Hulu.
Mental health has been a huge part of my life from a young age. My own mental health struggles motivate me to help others who may be dealing with similar issues. I am very passionate about educating anyone who may not know much about mental health and break the stigma that surrounds it. I believe that in order to grow we must first become comfortable with having uncomfortable conversations!
Mishaella Felipe
Majors: International Affairs / Spanish and Psychological Sciences Minors
Pronouns: she/her/hers
Hometown: Phoenix, Arizona
Hey there! I’m Mishaella (pronounced Me•Sha•Ella) and I’ll be graduating in Summer 2021! After my time at NAU, I plan to take a gap year before going on to graduate school for Psychology. My dream is to one day teach Psychology in a university and have an influence on my students in the same way that so many of my own amazing professors have done for me during my undergraduate career! When Im not busy with school, I love binge watching tv shows and listening to podcasts; I’m always looking for new recommendations 🙂
I have found, after having struggled with my own mental health for many years, that one of the most helpful ways for me to cope is to openly talk about it. I believe that our generation is capable of having a big impact in breaking down stigmas and stereotypes surrounding mental health and mental illness, so I joined the Mental Health Support Squad to make sure I am an active participant in bringing about the change we need to see in this world!
Josephine Guerrero
Major: Chemistry and Psychological Sciences
Pronouns: she/her/hers
Hometown: Mesa, Arizona
Hey y’all, my name is Josephine but I go by Josie. I am currently a senior at NAU double majoring in both Chemistry and Psychological Sciences and I will be graduating in Spring 2021. After my time as an undergraduate, I plan on taking a gap year and then going to either a Psychology Master’s or Doctoral program specializing in addiction.
I have loved my time here at NAU and have made so many great memories, but that’s not to say that there haven’t been low points. I joined the Mental Health Support Squad to hopefully be that person that can help others in the ways that I needed help in terms of mental health support. Through participation in this club, I hope to foster a sense of community with my peers and help them to become the best versions of themselves that they can be!
Mariana Gutierrez
Major: Health Sciences: Fitness and Wellness / Biology Minor
Hometown: Tucson, Arizona
Hello, my name is Mariana Gutierrez, and I am a Health Sciences: Fitness and Wellness Major. I am currently a sophomore. One of the many reasons why I chose to come to NAU is because of the beauty that Flagstaff has to offer.
I am a member of the Mental Health Support Squad because I think mental health is a very important topic, and we shouldn’t be afraid to talk about it; a lot of people are effected by mental health issues, even if they are not the ones struggling.
Selena Hernandez
Major: Psychological Sciences / Social Work and Spanish Minors
Hometown: Fontana, California
Hi! I’m Selena and I’m a Psychological Sciences major graduating in Fall 2020. My goal is to get a Master’s degree in Social Work and to work with children/adolescents, and eventually move into policy. I enjoy photography, listening to music, and drinking lots of coffee.
I became a member of the Mental Health Support Squad because I want to develop the skills needed to speak with others about mental health and the significance it has on our wellbeing. Having had various personal experiences with mental health struggles, I’ve become passionate about finding ways to support others and being there for those who need someone to talk to. I’m excited to be part of a group of likeminded students working to spread more awareness surrounding mental health and wellness to the NAU community.
Samantha Hernandez
Majors: Psychological Sciences / Biology Minor
Pronouns: she/her/hers
Hometown: Peoria, Arizona
Hey there peeps! My name is Samantha and I am studying Psychological Sciences with a minor in Biology! I am on track to graduate in Spring 2022. I plan on applying for occupational therapy school once I graduate, and am considering relocating to California at that time. I love my dogs and would do anything to have them here in Flagstaff with me! I am also a big foodie and enjoy hiking in my free time.
I feel that mental health is such an important factor in our lives. Few people seek help for their mental health because of the stigma or lack of resources. I joined the Mental Health Support Squad because I want to help advocate for others and remind them that seeking support is important and they are not alone. I hope to continue to gain knowledge about mental health, not only for myself, but to support others in my life whenever they feel that they are challenged by their mental health.
Annalise Hoffman
Majors: Psychological Sciences (BA)
Pronouns: she/her/hers
Hometown: Tucson, Arizona
Hello! My name is Annalise. My major is Psychological Sciences because I hope to work with and help people who have a mental illness or who struggle with their mental health. I hope to continue my education and am considering pursuing a Master’s degree in Counseling Psychology. I know that I want to pursue a career that helps others.
I am so excited to be part of the Mental Health Support Squad because I want to help remove the stigma surrounding mental health, mental illness, and help seeking for mental health struggles. My goal as a member of the squad is to support others as I learn how to best assist them in their mental health journey. Mental health is something that affects every person, whether we are aware of it or not. A common misconception is that our mental health only affects our minds, so I hope to bring awareness of how important it is to each individual because it also has the potential to influence our physical bodies.
Zoe Jacoby
Major: Psychological Sciences / Biology and Women & Gender Studies Minors
Pronouns: she/her/hers
Hometown: Phoenix, Arizona
Hi! My name is Zoe and I’ll be graduating in Spring 2021. I’ve been so happy being able to live in Flagstaff while completing my degree as compared to the 100-degree weather of Phoenix. I will be applying to graduate school at NAU next fall in the hope of becoming a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) specializing in trauma. This year I have an on-campus job, I am working at a youth shelter, and I also volunteer with the Crisis Text Line.
I’m passionate about mental health because it’s something I’ve dealt with myself. I have been in counseling for 8 years now and have learned so much. I joined the Mental Health Support Squad because I want to provide a safe space for students, like I had, and help break the stigma of mental health/illness. When someone needs help with their physical health, people go to the doctor and talk about it without embarrassment and I feel that mental health needs to be treated the same way.
Katrina Jenkins
Majors: Public Health and Communications in Sciences and Disorders / Ethnic Studies Minor
Pronouns: she/her/hers
Hometown: San Diego, California
Hey there! My name is Katrina, but you can call me Trina, Kat, or Kiki. I am a double major in Public Health and Communications in Sciences and Disorders with a minor in Ethic Studies. I will be graduating in Spring 2024 and am hoping to pursue a career as a physician assistant.
I joined the Mental Health Support Squad to hopefully be the person that others can come to regarding their mental health needs. I want to provide a good support system for my peers when they need it and to be able to help them find and use the resources they need. I am hoping to hear from you soon!
Marisol Magana
Majors: Psychological Sciences
Pronouns: she/her/hers
Hometown: Yuma, Arizona
Hiya! My name is Marisol and I am a transfer student studying Psychological Sciences with the goal of becoming a therapist/counselor! As a counselor, I hope to work with both veterans and young people. I also work part-time as a tutor. When I have spare time, I like drawing, embroidery, or playing video games (The Sims is my favorite!)
I joined the Mental Health Support Squad because I know from personal experience just how important our mental health is for our overall wellbeing. I hope to encourage other students to take care of themselves and their mental health in order to improve their lives. I believe my mental health struggles have led me to a place when I can now offer support and understanding to students who feel the same way as I did during my roughest times.
Litzy Medina Martinez
Majors: Psychological Sciences (emphasis in Social/Personality)
Pronouns: she/her/hers
Hometown: Goodyear, Arizona
Hi, I’m Litzy, and I am a psychological sciences major graduating in Spring 2023. My plan after college is to work with children in an educational setting. I eventually want to pursue my Master’s degree in order to practice psychology in a clinical setting. In my free time, I enjoy working on small DIY projects, practicing art in order to enhance my makeup skills, and catching up on television shows.
I knew I wanted to pursue a degree in psychology from a young age. Growing up, mental health was not something that was often addressed. I joined the Mental Health Support Squad to help provide people with the resources necessary to heal.
Stephanie Morales
Majors: Psychological Sciences (emphasis in Clinical)
Pronouns: she/her/hers
Hometown: Glendale, Arizona
Hey everyone! I am Stephanie and I am studying to become a clinical psychologist. I plan on graduating early in Spring 2022, yet I am always ready for the next adventure and am planning on going to graduate school. My time at NAU has been a great experience and has taught me to be present in the moment because time flies. I enjoy good conversations, music, adventures big or small, my family, and my two dogs Canela (Cinnamon) who is a Chihuahua and Azúcar (Sugar) who is a Pitbull.
I joined the Mental Health Support Squad because being there for others and advocating for mental health has been a passion of mine for as long as I can remember. I had the pleasure of working at a behavioral health facility during the summer of 2020, and that helped me to see just how much I love it. I want to be there for people who are struggling with their mental health because it is important to get rid of the stigma; we all need help at times. Mental health wellness means that we can all work together to pull through. Being a part of the Mental Health Support Squad reminds me that we are all a team, and we are not alone.
Indie Morris
Majors: Psychological Sciences and Secondary Education – English
Pronouns: they/them/theirs and she/her/hers
Hometown: Flagstaff, Arizona
Heya! I’m Indie, a student double majoring here at NAU and working toward my dream of becoming a teacher! I would love to study abroad in Germany or elsewhere in Europe or even Asia at some point during my college career and perhaps even teach abroad, though the farthest I’ve been so far is New York. In the future, I hope to pursue a career in teaching, and aim to get a Master’s degree in either School Counseling or Education. I love cats, casual gaming, and theater, as well as all forms of reading and writing! I am a major fan of slam poetry in particular, and I love drawing as well.
I am an avid supporter of mental health wellness and decreasing the stigma surrounding mental illness. I hope to be a strong peer mentor and source of support to all.
Sadie Nutt
Major: Film / Studio Art, Arts and Cultural Management, and Psychological Sciences Minors
Pronouns: she/her/hers
Hometown: Las Cruces, New Mexico
Hi everyone! My name is Sadie and I am a Film major graduating in Spring 2023. In addition to being a member of the Mental Health Support Squad, I am also a member of Associated Students of Intersectional Feminism. I love talking about film, art, and poetry, reading, going to the gym, doing anything in nature, shopping, and drinking lots of coffee!
I joined the Mental Health Support Squad to support those who are dealing with mental health issues as well as to be involved in educating others to help eradicate the stigma that surrounds mental health awareness. Not only has mental health been a big part of my own personal life, but it has played a role in many of my family members’ and friends’ lives as well. I hope to be a place of comfort, trust, support, and validation for anyone who needs it.
Abigail Parker
Major: Psychological Sciences (BS)
Pronouns: she/her/hers
Hometown: El Segundo, California
Hello! My name is Abigail (Abby). I am currently a sophomore and will be graduating in Spring 2023. I hope to eventually become a counselor. In addition to being in the Mental Health Support Squad, I participate in undergraduate research and I am a member of the hiking club.
I am passionate about mental health and I think that it should be openly talked about. As a support squad member, I want to help spread mental health awareness and education. I hope I can provide support and resources to others.
Stephanie Salas
Major: Health Sciences: Public Health / Psychological Sciences Minor
Pronouns: she/her/hers
Hometown: Los Angeles, California
Hey! My name is Stephanie and I’m so proud to be a part of the Mental Health Support Squad! My academic goal is to earn a Master’s degree in Public Health or Epidemiology. I love to sing, listen to music, journal, and hang out with friends. In addition to the Mental Health Support Squad, I’m a member of the Catholic Church on campus, Holy Trinity Catholic Newman Center, which is where I’ve met most of my friends since I started at NAU.
I became a Mental Health Support Squad member because being an advocate for mental health is so important to me. Growing up, I felt so alone and never understood my own feelings, and I never want anyone else to feel that way. Emotions can be confusing and complex, and they’re sometimes hard to deal with. I hope that through my contribution to the Mental Health Support Squad, I can make a difference at NAU!
Samantha Spina
Major: Biomedical Science / Chemistry and Psychological Sciences Minor
Hometown: Cave Creek, Arizona
Hi everyone! My name is Samantha Spina. I am a Biomedical Science major graduating in Spring 2021. I am hoping to become a pediatric emergency medicine doctor.
I struggle with mental health issues, and I hope to help others who do as well. I went through a really hard time in Fall 2019, and I had to go through it alone. I want to be there for anyone who needs someone to reach out to. I hope to hear from you guys soon!
Molly Swift
Majors: Psychological Sciences / Sociology and Criminal Justice Minors
Pronouns: she/her/hers
Hometown: Chandler, Arizona
Hey! My name is Molly and I am studying Psychological Sciences with an emphasis in social/personality. I will be graduating in Spring 2023 and will then pursue a Master’s degree. I plan to become a therapist so I can help individuals who struggle with their mental health. I want to do my best to help those in need to live a less stressful life.
I am passionate about mental health wellness because I have been around it my whole life. Not only have I personally been affected by it, but many people around me have as well. I want people to become comfortable in talking about their mental health and how it affects their lives. I want to get rid of the stigma that it is wrong to talk about mental health. I hope to gain a knowledge base to help others through my participation with the Mental Health Support Squad and be able to listen to others’ journeys in order to best help them.
Jacqueline Talley
Major: Business Marketing
Pronouns: she/her/hers
Hometown: Lino Lakes, Minnesota
Hello everyone! My name is Jacqueline, but please call me Jacquie. Here at NAU, I participate in campus events, adventure outside a lot, and frequently use the gym facilities. I love to hang out with my friends and try new things, meet new people, and learn new things.
I joined the Mental Health Support Squad to become more connected to my school community and to help others in their unseen struggles. Everyone has a different story, and you never know what’s really going on with someone until you ask. I want to be around to listen!
Abigail Tietz
Major: Computer Science
Pronouns: she/her/hers
Hometown: Meridian, Idaho
Hello and Howdy! My name is Abigail (Abby) and I am a computer science major in the Honors College. My dream job is to work for the FBI, and I plan to graduate a year early. When I’m not writing code, I enjoy playing video games, Dungeons & Dragons, and drawing.
I have struggled with my own mental health for several years, and want to help people to navigate through what I’ve been through. When I saw that NAU had a specific group that did just that, I knew I had to join!
Noemy Venegas
Major: Communication Science Disorders / Psychological Sciences Minor
Hometown: Kingman, Arizona
Hello! My name is Noemy |no-me|. I am a junior, and will be graduating in Spring 2021. My goal is to get my Master’s degree in Speech Pathology and work in schools with children.
I joined the Mental Health Support Squad because, as someone who suffers from mental health problems myself, I know how important it is to talk to someone who will listen. I hope I can be someone’s person when they need it most.
Emerson Weinbrecht
Major: Psychological Sciences / Biology and Comparative Study of Religions Minors
Pronouns: she/her/hers
Hometown: Tucson, Arizona
Hi!! I’m Emerson! I’m a Psychological Sciences major graduating in Spring 2021. I hope to enter a clinical psychology Ph.D. program after graduation, with my plan being to eventually practice both in a clinical setting as well as doing research and lecturing at a university. In addition to the Mental Health Support Squad, I am in a research lab on campus, and I also TA and tutor for a few different psych courses! In my free time, you’ll usually find me listening to music, playing video games, or cooking.
I joined the Mental Health Support Squad because mental health is a huge part of my life, and is something that I am very passionate about. Along with so many important people in my life, I have struggled with a variety of mental health issues. I want to continue to do my part in reducing the stigma around mental health needs while gaining more skills in how to have effective conversations with others about mental health, and bringing mental health awareness and wellness to my community.
Mackenzie Westover
Major: Psychological Sciences / Health and Wellness Coaching Minor
Pronouns: she/her/hers
Hometown: Riverside, California
Hey! My name is Mackenzie, and I am excited to be a member of the Mental Health Support Squad. After graduating with my degree in Psychological Sciences, I would like to work with a group called Behavior Frontiers. This group helps those with autism in their daily lives (school, community, and family). I would like to become a Registered Behavioral Technician (RBT) and eventually get my Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB). My goal is to get my Master’s degree in School Psychology.
I joined the Mental Health Support Squad program because I have friends and family members who have been diagnosed or are struggling with mental health issues. I am hoping to become a better sibling and daughter as a result of training and helping my peers. I am also hoping to gain more experience from my involvement in the Mental Health Support Squad in order to help others in the future!
Dominick J. Yastrzab
Major: Marketing
Pronouns: he/him/his
Hometown: Mesa, Arizona
Hello!! My name is Dominick and I’m a transfer Junior here at NAU majoring in Marketing. I plan to graduate in Spring 2022. My dream job would be to work for a major pro sports team in their marketing department. I’m a big sports fan and try to watch sports whenever I can. I love living in Flagstaff and I can’t wait to see so much more of this great city. I transferred to NAU from a community college and the change has been smooth but also scary. NAU is a great school and everyone that I have met has welcomed me with open arms!
I joined the Mental Health Support Squad because I know that even in college, we have low points; having fellow students to talk to is a big help! I also want to help lower the social stigma of those who identify as male seeking mental health support. If we make it less taboo, more people will be willing to talk about what might be hurting them and not just push it down like we have been conditioned to do. I think the Mental Health Support Squad is a great club and I hope we can all make a difference in the lives of those who need it. I will leave you with something a former teacher of mine would tell us as we left class: “Don’t forget to share your smile with somebody else; they might need it more than you do. And it might come back to me and I can use all the smiles I can get!”