UHD Chapter Blog

Jun 15,2020

Hello,

My name is Alyssa Rangel-Woosley and I am a student and the University of Houston Downtown. I am currently going to school to get my Bachelors of Science in Psychology with the hope to go get my PhD in Clinical Psychology when I am done. I have chosen a career in psychology in the hopes of one day either working on a military base or with the VA to help our soldier receive the mental care that they need. As a veteran myself and through talking with veterans, I have noticed that the hardest thing for them is to trust a civilian. It is easier for them to open up to a current or prior service member than anyone else, and unless that trust is there unfortunately they will never receive the help many of them so desperately need.

While going to school I am also very active in the mental health community in Brazoria, Galveston, and Harris County in Texas. I am also very involved with veteran organizations in these counties. As a veteran PTSD and someone who is comfortable talking about it I know that the only way to get others talking is by having that uncomfortable, open conversation. I want every veteran, no matter what they are going through, to know that they are not going through it alone and that they still can live happy and fulfilling lives.

Being a leader to me means having uncomfortable conversations, being able to hold your peoples trust, and proving no matter what that you are ready to help they succeed. I have had many great leaders that taught me so much while in the military. Sometimes the best thing you can do for anyone is just be there for them and not pass any judgment. Letting them know that unless it involves the loss of life or limb, anything you come to them for is completely safe with you and you will help them through anything. The best leaders are your loudest cheerleaders and strongest course correctors. They offer their opinions but cheer you on no matter what choice you make, and help if you fall without saying “I told you so.” This is not only the type of leader, but person I try to be every day.

The views expressed in this article are those of the author and are for informational purposes only. They do not necessarily reflect the views of Honor Society®, a private membership organization. Participation is voluntary and does not guarantee specific outcomes, including scholarships or employment. Readers should independently evaluate all information.

About the Author

Alyssa R.

Honor Society® Member.
Author’s views. For informational purposes only.

Articles you may like

UHD Chapter Blog

UHD Chapter Blog Hello, My name is Alyssa Rangel-Woosley and I am a student and the University of Houston Downtown. I am currently going to school to get my Bachelors of Science in Psychology with the hope to go get my PhD in Clinical Psychology when I am done. I have chosen a career in psychology in the hopes of one day either working on a military base or with the VA to help our soldier receive the mental care that they need. As a veteran myself and through talking with veterans, I have noticed that the hardest thing for them is to trust a civilian. It is easier for them to open up to a current or prior service member than anyone else, and unless that trust is there unfortunately they will never receive the help many of them so desperately need. While going to school I am also very active in the mental health community in Brazoria, Galveston, and Harris County in Texas. I am also very involved with veteran organizations in these counties. As a veteran PTSD and someone who is comfortable talking about it I know that the only way to get others talking is by having that uncomfortable, open conversation. I want every veteran, no matter what they are going through, to know that they are not going through it alone and that they still can live happy and fulfilling lives. Being a leader to me means having uncomfortable conversations, being able to hold your peoples trust, and proving no matter what that you are ready to help they succeed. I have had many great leaders that taught me so much while in the military. Sometimes the best thing you can do for anyone is just be there for them and not pass any judgment. Letting them know that unless it involves the loss of life or limb, anything you come to them for is completely safe with you and you will help them through anything. The best leaders are your loudest cheerleaders and strongest course correctors. They offer their opinions but cheer you on no matter what choice you make, and help if you fall without saying “I told you so.” This is not only the type of leader, but person I try to be every day.