I am Alexandria Busch, a dedicated and passionate senior student at Buffalo State University, pursuing my major in Health and Wellness with a certificate in Health Promotion Sciences. I am from Buffalo, New York where I experienced first-hand that healthy living is not always a choice. My journey in academia has been an exciting and transformative one, filled with valuable experiences and a commitment to promoting well-being and vitality. Throughout my time at Buffalo State University, I have been a part of the EOP Community. I have been working alongside my EOP counselor, Carole Miller, who has nominated me today for the “EOP Iluminadores Award”. Carole Miller has been my right hand and my stepping stool in creating a fulfilling future. I immersed myself in the world of health and wellness, exploring the multifaceted aspects of individual health and population health while putting my focus on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. I work to demonstrate a commitment to education by attending to my classes every week, actively engaging in coursework, and work towards my academic goals. I seek guidance when it is needed and maintain a consistent study routine. Additionally, I show respect towards educators and peers, contribute to research projects, and embrace lifelong learning to showcase my commitment. I create success in my own way by setting specific goals throughout my seven semesters here at Buffalo State University. Setting and achieving these goals give me the motivation and confidence to change the health of communities. Success often involves facing challenges and setbacks. My ability to adapt and maintain a resilient mindset has guided me in overcoming obstacles and progressing towards my goals. I work to be a change agent in my community through various opportunities presented to me through Buffalo State University. Last semester I gained the opportunity to work with the Institute for Community Health Promotion (ICHP) where I worked on a multi-year contract with NYS Office of Addiction Services and Supports (OASAS) where I aided in collecting and manipulating health data to make a difference in the public health concern regarding substance use in the state of New York. This semester I will be working with my professor and peers to promote physical health to younger children located on the East Side of Buffalo, bridging the educational gap, and applying health promotion to a disadvantaged area experiencing health disparities. These experiences have not only enhanced my leadership and teamwork skills but have also allowed me to connect with like-minded individuals who share my passion for health and wellness. My ability to be a free thinker provides a strong sense of individuality, allowing myself to step away from the societal expectations and pressures. Being a free thinker allows me to push the boundaries of knowledge and to try new things. It is important to unapologetically be yourself because this is where real change begins. Being a free thinker means having the ability to keep an open mind and to see different perspectives from my peers and educators because learning is a lifelong process.
