Julio

“Out of the mountain of despair, a stone of hope” – MLK

Age: 25
Pronouns: He/Him/His
Gender Identity: Male
Ethnic Background: Latino
County: Santa Clara & LA County

Family & Household

How many siblings do you have, and where do you fall in terms of birth order?
3 siblings, I fall in the middle
What type of living arrangement did you have during your childhood (e.g., nuclear family, single-parent household, foster care)?
Single-parent household, low SES
Did you experience any significant changes in your family structure during your childhood (e.g., divorce, separation)?

Seperation

Coping Mechanisms

How do you cope with stress or difficult situations?
Read, go for a walk, spend time with friends, bookstores, and cafes
Have you received professional help or counseling for any challenges you’ve faced?
Yes, therapy
Are there any positive role models or supportive individuals who have influenced your life positively?
Yes, I’ve been lucky to receive mentorship while in undergrad by a positive influential role model

Educational & Employment

What is your current education or career path?
Prospective med school applicant
Have your ACEs influenced your academic or career choices?
Yes, my ACEs has made me realize the importance of advocacy and the need for more physicians who look like me

Social Support

Do you and your friends feel comfortable discussing mental health topics openly?
Mainly yes, most of my friends feel comfortable with discussing mental health topics but not all of them. It strongly depends on the issue at hand.
What actions or behaviors help create a supportive environment among your friends?
Asking friends to listen when you need to vent and asking friends for advice when you need guidance. Sometimes, I’ve learned, it’s easy to not get what you want when you’re not communicating properly. Communication is key. Before asking for help, it’s important to communicate the type of help you’d like. Sometimes, I need someone to listen. Other times, I require some advice. Most of the times, however, it’s a mix of both.

Future Aspirations

What are your hopes and dreams for the future?
My hope is to be happy and to help people with their ACEs
What is one thing you want to do or accomplish? (This could be learning a new skill, visting a new place, something related to school/work/life/relationship)
I would love to travel! I haven’t had the opportunity to travel outside the Americas!