Specific steps played a crucial role in my transition. Seeking therapy and medical help became a cornerstone of recovery, addressing emotional and physical tolls. Finding a passion outside the military catalyzed growth beyond my military identity. Creating a game plan and setting short-term goals shaped my path. A structured schedule, even during emotional lows, maintained accountability, extending beyond dealing with PTSD. Choosing a purpose was key in rebuilding post-military life. Education became my guiding light, providing a framework for personal and professional development. A structured schedule continued to keep me on track. Finding support from peers, professors, and colleagues provided constant strength.
As I embark on my journey in psychology, my dedication to ongoing therapy and advocacy for mental health support remains unwavering. Central to my mission is illuminating the transformative power inherent in seeking help, especially for those transitioning from the military. To our service women, I emphasize that departure from the military or any previous career marks not an end, but a commencement of a new, invaluable journey. The unique experiences they bring are a once-in-a-lifetime asset, admired and respected by employers.
I urge them to recognize the perpetual nature of their purpose, understanding that the discipline and preparation acquired in the military are universally applicable. Veterans possess a wealth of qualifications, transcending specific fields, enabling success in diverse paths. This resilience and adaptability are not merely skills; they are invaluable attributes that set us on a trajectory towards triumph in any endeavor we choose to pursue.
Triumph Over Adversity: A Latina Veteran's Journey to Empowerment
By Paula Enriquez
In 2013, amid the challenges of a recession and my parents' divorce, a college bill began my transformative journey. Financial uncertainty loomed large, pushing me towards a path suggested by my cousin, veteran Andy: enlisting in the Army National Guard as a Military Intelligence Analyst in 2014. My military journey became a test of resilience, including family disintegration, homelessness, and a betrayal leading to assault and attempted suicide. Choosing self-preservation, I opted not to extend my contract, avoiding deployment alongside my perpetrator.
Navigating educational benefits and dealing with mental and physical scars from the assault, I initially dropped out of college but rediscovered my purpose through diverse civilian jobs. I would shortly find myself re-enlisting in the Air National Guard's Active Guard Reserve amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. I faced challenges in the mission from medical support to handling bodies in NYC hospitals. While dealing with personal matters such as a car accident and harassment from my commander, solidarity from colleagues and intervention by the National Guard Bureau led to my removal from perilous leadership.
Some scars were too deep and the harassment was the onset of my spiraling. I had no choice but to confront Military Sexual Trauma (MST) at a San Antonio inpatient center, and I found solace and strength in fellow survivors. Intensive therapy not only healed my wounds but reignited my passion for education. Beneath the uniform my spirit was intact and this became my testament to the indomitable human spirit.
My time at Union College of New Jersey has been transformative. As a dedicated sophomore, I excelled academically, led the Student Veterans Club (SVA), and advocated for mental health awareness. Beyond campus, experiences as a Warrior-Scholar Project alumni, Service to School mentee, swim team coach, and Training & Safety LLC owner fortified my leadership skills and commitment to community service. Poised to graduate with my associates, I am ready to inspire change, challenge the status quo, and prove that resilience, education, and determination triumph over challenges.
