The field of mental health is where Isabella Melians feels most drawn to — and it’s what she’ll pursue at Ohio State University. While this 1,000 Dreams Fund Scholarship recipient is keeping her options open, she is interested in courses of study in pharmaceutical sciences, neuroscience, and psychology. Additionally, she will be pursuing a minor in Integrated Wellness!

What is your professional dream?

My dream is to work as a forensic psychiatrist, where I will be able to advocate for mental health awareness and treatment of convicted members of underrepresented communities. Following my undergraduate degree, I plan to pursue a master’s degree in a specialization of psychology, such as clinical or forensic psychology.

How will you use the 1,000 Dreams Scholarship?

I will use this scholarship to cover costs throughout my undergraduate degree, especially textbooks and travel expenses.

How is this scholarship helping you get closer to your dream?

This scholarship allows me to focus on pursuing my degree without the additional stress of textbook and educational costs. Through this, I will lessen the financial burden that college expenses place on my mother while achieving my dreams and making my impact on the world.

​What advice do you have for other young women who are wanting to pursue their dreams?

My biggest piece of advice to young women is to just start now. If you have a dream, then you don’t have to wait until you feel “ready enough” to achieve it. You have every opportunity to start getting involved at any age. This can lead you to have great experiences and develop a sense of community with like-minded women. And, if you decide that something just isn’t for you, you can start over and try something else. At any point of your life, you have the chance to learn and connect with people. Take it.

​Have you had any setbacks? How did you move past them?

I have faced many setbacks, whether that be failing a test, experiencing loss, or just facing a lack of motivation. I move past this by reminding myself that these things are temporary. I do not let my current circumstances dictate what I will be able to achieve in the future. I am able to maintain an optimistic view of what is to come, which encourages to me to put forth my best effort at any given moment.

What’s next for you? What is your next goal?

My current goal is to immerse myself in the mental health field throughout my undergraduate degree. I look forward to participating in clubs and internships that allow me to get closer to achieving my dream.