Emilia Zelazko

Throughout my high school tenure, I pursued a challenging curriculum by enrolling in Advanced Placement (AP) courses both within my high school and at a nearby college to efficiently earn my bachelor's degree with a focus on psychology. Achieving placement on the Chancellor's List during dual enrollment, I have maintained a 3.6 GPA and received invitations to the Honor Society. With a strong work ethic and organizational skills, I currently serve as the Assistant Director at a prominent dance studio in Rock Hill, South Carolina. In this role, I ensure the smooth operation of productions, drawing on three years of experience in the directing field. My proficiency in communication and problem-solving extends to building positive relationships with students and parents. An integral aspect of my professional journey involves working with students facing mental health challenges. This experience has cultivated my compassion and attentiveness, extending beyond the dance studio to understanding individuals grappling with mental health issues, including those who may have committed crimes. I possess a keen ability to assess the mental states of individuals through observation and empathetic communication. These skills, coupled with my commitment to addressing mental health complexities, uniquely position me as a dedicated candidate. I am excited about the opportunity to contribute my diverse skill set to the Forensic

Psychology Master's Program at Arizona State University.

Dancing has been a significant passion of mine for fourteen years, during which I actively participated in competitions. Presently, I still find enjoyment in taking dance classes and dancing alongside my students. Beyond being a mere pastime, dance holds a deeper meaning for me as an art form that allows me to convey and experience emotions through movement. In essence, dance serves as a liberating and highly expressive medium. It provides me with the opportunity to release inhibitions, connecting on a profound level with my emotions and feelings. This expressive outlet not only brings personal fulfillment but also enhances my ability to connect with others, particularly when sharing the joy of dance with my students.