Zaytoon Malik - 2025 Emerging Scholar, 2026 Peer Mentor

I am currently studying how positive psychotherapy supports mental health by focusing on an individual's personal strengths. I am deeply interested in anything related to the field of psychology. The Emerging Scholars program has been incredible because it gave me hands-on experience and a meaningful opportunity to explore ways to help people with their mental health. My Emerging Scholar mentor was amazing—they taught me what it truly means to be a good researcher and gave me invaluable tips and tricks on how to stay organized and on top of my project. I chose to step into a peer mentor role because I really want to help incoming students navigate their path, while also challenging myself to take on a leadership role.

For the rest of my undergraduate career, I plan to gain more research experience and graduate with Honors for my BA in Psychology. Afterward, I hope to go to graduate school and eventually build a career in the mental health field.

More information about me:

• I have visited all 50 states
• My name means "olive"
• I once fell down an ice cap.