Name: Cody Andrews
Year: Class of 2014
Major: Social Work
Hometown: Palos Verdes, California
1. Tell us a bit about Mental Health Ambassadors (MHA).
Mental Health Ambassadors is a group of students who work with the Counseling Center to de-stigmatize talking about mental health. So many times we get in these unhealthy cycles without thinking how we’re really feeling. We want to break those cycles to make you feel your best!
2. How long have you been involved with MHA?
Almost 2 years!
3. What sort of events does MHA put on during the year?
During the week, we get requests from classes, clubs, and other organizations to present programs about a variety of mental health issues. We also usually have programs on campus around exam times to help de-stress students. This month, we are working to promote the programs put on by the ASU Counseling Center during our campus’s Eating Disorders Awareness week, starting on March 18th.
4. What would you tell someone who is thinking about joining?
I have really loved being apart of this amazing group of people. They are always so supportive! The programs are great because it gives you a chance to have a conversation with your peers about a subject that would usually be kind of uncomfortable to talk about.
5. How has being a part of this organization changed your college experience?
Doing these presentations about mental health have given me the opportunity to learn so much about my own mental health. It has definitely given me the tools to recognize when I’m overstressed or out of touch. Being a Mental Health Ambassador has given me a different perspective of viewing the world.
6. How do you split your time between being president of MHA and Chi Omega?
I have learned that I need to keep the days that I work on Chi O or MHA very separate or else I can sometimes feel overwhelmed. I have gotten into a routine, which has helped. I’m ready for spring break, though!
7. What are your post-graduation plans/hopes?
I plan on moving back to California and going to grad school to get my master’s in Social Work. I would love to do some international social work either before or after grad school!