Using Education to Create a More Just and Mindful World by Sanjna

Using Education to Create a More Just and Mindful World by Sanjna - April 2023 Scholarship Essay

If I had unlimited time and resources, I would utilize the knowledge and skills I have gained from my academic pursuits to positively impact the world in various ways. My first priority would be to support nationwide mindfulness training programs in schools. Mindfulness is a powerful tool that can enhance concentration, mental clarity, compassion, and acceptance while reducing stress levels. Therefore, introducing mindfulness training to students would help them improve their concentration and reduce stress levels during class.

Moreover, I would use the inspiration from my previous research work during the COVID-19 pandemic to address the racial injustices brought to light. The Black Lives Matter protests and the Stop Asian Hate movement sparked a fire in me to take action and create change. Working alongside Dr. Berry and graduate students at California State University San Marcos, I determined if a focused attention form of mindfulness meditation can upregulate empathy toward social outgroup members (e.g., racial, ethnic, political).

To address this issue, we conducted experimental protocols at CSU San Marcos to study the effects of mindfulness on empathy toward social outgroup members. As a part of the research lab, I assisted in writing a meta-analysis on the significance of mindfulness training.
Additionally, I would support mental health programs and initiatives aimed at creating safer communities and schools. Collaborating with mental health professionals and educators, I would design and implement programs that prioritize mental health awareness and wellness in schools.

Furthermore, I would allocate some of the resources to support organizations and initiatives dedicated to combating racial injustices. This could involve supporting organizations that aim to improve access to education and healthcare for marginalized communities, promote diversity and inclusivity in the workplace, or advocate for policy changes that address systemic racism.

Finally, I would use unlimited time and resources to establish a platform that connects individuals from diverse backgrounds and promotes meaningful dialogue to foster understanding and empathy. This platform could take the form of a global conference or a virtual platform that connects people from all walks of life. The ultimate goal would be to create a space where individuals could share their experiences, learn from each other, and work together towards creating a more equitable and just society.

In conclusion, I would utilize my education and research experience to address social issues such as racial injustices and mental health and promote mindfulness and empathy as powerful tools for positive change. With sufficient resources and support, significant progress can be made towards creating a more inclusive and just world.