Ikigai: Finding Purpose

Ikigai: Finding Purpose in Supporting Care Leavers at University Ikigai, the Japanese concept of "reason for being," highlights the intersection of passion, purpose, skills, and what the world needs. For many care leavers, pursuing higher education represents a powerful step towards building a fulfilling ikigai. However, the statistics paint a stark picture: care leavers are significantly underrepresented in universities compared to their peers. This disparity underscores the urgent need for targeted support to bridge this gap and unlock the potential within this often-overlooked population. **The Challenge: Statistics and the Need for Change** The numbers are sobering. Care leavers are far less likely to apply to university, receive offers, or ultimately enroll compared to their non-care leaver counterparts. They face a multitude of challenges, including: * **Lack of consistent support:** Many care leavers lack the stable family network that provides crucial emotional, financial, and practical support during the university application process and beyond. * **Financial hardship:** Financial constraints are a major barrier, with care leavers often lacking the resources to cover tuition fees, accommodation, and living expenses. * **Mental health and well-being:** The trauma and instability experienced by many care leavers can impact their mental health, making the transition to university life particularly challenging. * **Lack of awareness and guidance:** Care leavers may not have access to the same level of information and guidance about university pathways as their peers. **Student Minds: Championing Positive Experiences** Student Minds, a leading UK charity supporting student mental health, plays a vital role in addressing these challenges. Their campaigns aim to create a more inclusive and supportive university experience for care leavers by: * **Raising awareness:** Increasing understanding among university staff and students about the unique needs and experiences of care leavers. * **Advocating for change:** Pushing for policy changes that improve access to higher education for care leavers, including financial support and tailored accommodation options. * **Providing resources and support:** Developing resources and support networks specifically for care leavers at university, addressing their academic, emotional, and social needs. * **Promoting a sense of belonging:** Fostering a welcoming and inclusive campus environment where care leavers feel supported and valued. **My Contribution: 7 Cups Internship and Beyond** My internship with 7 Cups has provided invaluable experience in understanding the emotional and mental health challenges faced by young people, including those from care backgrounds. Through active listening and providing a safe space for individuals to share their experiences, I've gained insights into the specific stressors and anxieties that can hinder academic success. This experience has solidified my commitment to supporting care leavers in their pursuit of higher education. Building on this foundation, I aim to contribute to initiatives that: * **Provide peer support:** Facilitate peer support groups specifically for care leavers at university, fostering a sense of community and shared experience. * **Offer mentorship:** Connect care leavers with mentors who can provide guidance, support, and encouragement throughout their university journey. * **Develop targeted resources:** Create resources that address the specific needs of care leavers, including financial advice, accommodation options, and mental health support. By combining my passion for supporting young people with my understanding of the challenges faced by care leavers, I believe I can contribute to creating a more equitable and supportive higher education system. This aligns with my own ikigai – using my skills to make a positive impact on the lives of others and contribute to a more just and inclusive society. Supporting care leavers in achieving their educational goals not only benefits them individually but also enriches the university community and society as a whole.

I channel my love of learning, particularly in psychology, into creating fun, inspiring affirmations. I believe positive self-talk is powerful, so I craft insightful, memorable statements that translate complex psychological principles into simple tools for boosting self-esteem, resilience, and a positive mindset. For example, "I embrace my imperfections, knowing they are part of my unique journey of growth" incorporates self-acceptance and a growth mindset more effectively than a generic "I am worthy." Seeing how these affirmations resonate and spark self-reflection is rewarding. It allows me to contribute to others' well-being. But how do I ensure these affirmations are truly helpful and not just platitudes? What criteria do I use to select the psychological principles I translate? And how do I measure the impact of these affirmations on others' lives? Is there a risk of oversimplifying complex issues, and how can I mitigate that?