Taishleen's Story

Taishleen Mendez is a first-year student majoring in general psychology with a certificate in youth development. She is a leader in ALANA (African American - Latina - Asian - Native American – Allies), student representative for the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Student Subcommittee, and a volunteer for the Office of Multicultural Affairs. When not busy as a full-time student, she works as a freelance makeup artist. She is also passionate about volleyball and is planning to join the Bay Path volleyball team.

"I consider myself to be a strong person. I’m the first one in my family to go to college and graduate from high school. I would like to thank my mom for all of my accomplishments. She is my rock, and she pushes me to achieve more. Even though she has gone through much in her lifetime, she has never given up. Her story is very inspiring to me. Whenever I’m going through a rough patch, I will think about how much she has endured. If she is able to persevere, so can I. I chose to be a forensic psychology major because I want to work as a mental health counselor for incarcerated women and youth. With a background in both law and psychology, I can help them successfully reintegrate into the community."

“I’m involved in ALANA, the DE&I Student Subcommittee, and the Office of Multicultural Affairs. Being a student leader has helped bring me out of my shell. By sharing and helping others, I was able to overcome the stress caused by an abusive relationship at a young age. My leadership roles at Bay Path have led me to stand up for myself and advocate for students. It has taught me how to empathize and support others.”

Favorite quote: “The world gives you so much pain and here you are making gold out of it. There is nothing purer than that.” - Rupi Kaur