Gelsey Plaza

I hope to build on my experiences working with EDify Talks in order to expand mental health education into schools and after-school clubs and organizations. I want to be a mental health activist in my local community and beyond, sharing inspiring stories of those who have struggled with a mental illness and how they found their purpose again. As an aspiring actress as well, it would be a dream to create and act in a mental health movie based on true stories of youth battling mental illness. I want future generations to feel more comfortable with addressing and prioritizing their mental health.

Working for a mental health magazine publication would be a wonderful start; I can also see myself working in the Communications/PR department of a company focused on ending the stigma around mental health and providing free access to healthcare to underserved communities. As a writer, I hope for my work to highlight the stories of those struggling with our current lack of mental health education in schools and workplaces. It's time to shift the mental health narrative into something empowering and life-changing.

I hope that my studies at Northwestern’s MA in Journalism Program will further guide me to develop my personal voice and tell stories through genuine, vivid and multimedia pieces. I will explore the nuances of reporting and writing and gain comprehensive skills in print and digital magazine publishing; this versatility will allow me to better illuminate personal stories in hopes of empowering others. I hope that by strengthening my skills in pitch development, print and digital magazine publishing, and multimedia storytelling in Northwestern's MA of Journalism Program, I can help share all of those awe-inspiring “Unshared Stories” and bring to light the diverse experiences that impact each and every one of us.
I am also inspired to take part in Northwestern's Global Residency program. Their connection with the news organization in Argentina will give me an opportunity to build on my skills, gain real-world experience, and enhance my Spanish speaking and writing skills. This would bring me one step closer towards my dream of sharing bilingual stories.

Rock Climbing, Hiking/Backpacking, Camping, Mountain Climbing, Acting (on-screen and live theatre), Musical Theatre,
Mental health and Social Justice Activism, Reading (historical fiction and fantasy), Yoga, Meditation, Coloring, Graphic Design, Videography