JTC 24: Discomfort Breeds Growth

Racheal Embry has spent her undergraduate years at the University of Mississippi getting outside her comfort zone. From serving as president of the First-Gen Student Network to conducting research in the Department of Psychology, Embry hasn't shied away from putting herself out there.

"I think the aspect of my college experience I am proudest of is my adoption of the mindset of 'discomfort breeds growth,'" the Olive Branch native said. "A close friend of mine introduced me to this concept and it has been the mantra I have used to guide my college experience.

"By setting aside the sense of unease that often accompanies the unknown, I was able to experience opportunities I never would have imagined."

A psychology major with a minor in education, Embry is also a member of the Sally McDonnell Barksdale Honors College student. Research has been an integral part of her time on campus, and her research efforts landed her an internship opportunity with the North Mississippi Regional Center.

Embry said that her love and passion for psychology began in her early school years when she noticed a common trend of poor mental health among her peers.

"My interest probably sparked in middle school as I saw my peers struggling with mental health, often silently and under the radar of teachers or faculty who could provide them with resources," she said. "I wanted to understand why people struggle with mental illness, but more broadly why any individual behaves the way they do."

Not only was her interest in mental health piqued, so was her interest in science. In high school, she learned that an individual's biology and environment affect their development, and therefore their mental health.

Embry said she is grateful that faculty in the psychology department allowed her passion to flourish into a tangible experience.

"My tenure at Ole Miss has only deepened my passion for the field of psychology and given me the confidence to pursue further educational opportunities," she said.

"From creating environments that foster discussions around topics in psychology to encouraging me as an individual to engage in research and gain hands-on experience, the faculty of the psychology department has played a pivotal role in my maturation as a scholar."

That scholarly growth recently led to Embry being awarded a Taylor Medal, the highest academic honor the university bestows on its students.

Embry also credits Ashleen Williams, assistant professor and senior Barksdale fellow, as a role model and mentor for her as a first-generation student since her Honors 101 class.

"Her class was the very first class I stepped foot into as a freshman, and she has continued to push and teach me each year since," she said. "By offering resources that bridge the gap in my knowledge about college to encouraging me to overcome imposter syndrome and get involved across campus, Dr. Williams has continued to be one of my biggest advocates and role models."

Williams recalled that first day of class and recounted how she quickly noticed Embry's willingness to learn.

"I mentioned that I was a first-generation college student, and she approached me after class to ask some questions," Williams said. "Racheal sat in the front row, asked questions and made sure to take up every opportunity for campus involvement.

"I am most impressed with Racheal's persistent engagement, her willingness to ask tough questions and her commitment to excellence."

Following graduation, Embry will remain at Ole Miss to continue her research with the Parent and Adolescent Anxiety Lab. She hopes to eventually earn a doctorate in clinical psychology, specifically in providing therapy to individuals with severe psychopathology.

"I hope to find ways to provide mental health care to individuals who experience financial or situational barriers that prevent them from accessing the resources and support they need," she said.

See more photos from Racheal Embry's Journey to Commencement