Honor Society® member
Alianna Ribadeneira
- Psycology
- Class of 2025
- Bronx, NY
Member since December 2024
About
A proud Harlem native with Ecuadorian and Russian roots, Alianna has transformed her multicultural upbringing into a powerful force for fostering unity and celebrating diversity. Born into a blend of vibrant traditions, she often felt caught between worlds. Yet, instead of seeing these differences as barriers, she embraced them as a source of strength.
Throughout high school, Alianna demonstrated an exceptional ability to connect with others across cultural divides. She immersed herself in the stories, cuisines, and traditions of her peers, discovering her passion for creating spaces where diverse perspectives could thrive. Her dedication to fostering inclusivity and engagement was recognized when she won the election to serve as Secretary of her school, a leadership role she used to make a meaningful impact.
As Secretary, Alianna spearheaded initiatives such as cross-cultural cooking events, end-of-year fashion shows highlighting cultural attire, and an annual celebration of heritage that became a hallmark of her school community. Her efforts created opportunities for students to connect, learn, and celebrate their unique identities.
For Alianna, identity is not about conforming but about embracing individuality and celebrating the uniqueness that each person brings to the table. Her work to foster understanding and inclusivity has left an indelible mark on her school, and she is committed to carrying this mission forward as she pursues future endeavors.
Alianna exemplifies the values of the honor society, inspiring others to see diversity as a cornerstone of strength and unity.
Education
-
Cornell University
psychology
2025
Honors and awards
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National Hispanic Recognition Award
The National Hispanic Recognition Award, presented by the College Board, honors academically outstanding high school students of Hispanic heritage. Recipients demonstrate exceptional academic achievement, typically with high PSAT/NMSQT or AP scores.
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AP Scholar with Distinction
The AP Scholar with Distinction award is granted to students who demonstrate exceptional academic performance on Advanced Placement (AP) exams.
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Model United Nations Award
Award demonstrate exceptional skills in diplomacy, public speaking, collaboration, and problem-solving.
Goals and interests
- Career goal
Alianna aspires to combine her passions for psychology and government to advocate for systemic change and policy reform. She aims to work at the intersection of mental health and public policy, focusing on improving support systems for neurodivergent individuals and marginalized communities. Her goal is to design and implement policies that ensure equitable access to mental health resources, particularly for those navigating legal and institutional challenges.
Alianna envisions a career in which she can influence government interventions to create a more inclusive society, where individuals' mental health needs are recognized and addressed within the framework of justice and public service. Whether through policy analysis, advocacy, or direct collaboration with government agencies, Alianna is committed to driving meaningful change that uplifts and empowers underserved populations.
- Graduate school interests
Alianna is eager to pursue graduate studies in psychology and public policy to deepen her understanding of the intersection between mental health and governmental systems. Her academic interests lie in exploring how psychological research can inform public policy to create equitable mental health interventions, particularly for neurodivergent individuals and marginalized communities.
Through graduate education, Alianna aims to gain the skills and knowledge necessary to design and advocate for policies that address systemic inequalities in mental health care and the justice system. She is particularly interested in programs that emphasize interdisciplinary approaches, combining psychological theory with policy analysis to drive impactful change. Alianna envisions graduate school as a critical step toward a career where she can leverage her expertise to foster inclusive, evidence-based reforms that improve lives on a societal scale.
- Outside the classroom
Music and Performance: Trained in piano and singing, with experience performing in theater and musical settings, showcasing a passion for the arts.
Sewing and Design: Skilled in sewing and costume creation, applying talents to theater productions and personal creative projects.
Volunteering
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Greenburgh Nature Center Tour Guide
Greenburgh Nature Center
Jun 2022 – Jun 2025
Languages
- Spanish Intermediate
- Russian Intermediate
Additional information
Organizations
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SO Cabinet
