Jada Garnett doesn’t mince words when describing her major: The Community and Applied Psychological Studies (CAPS) program at the University of Miami “has had a profound impact on her life.”
She chose the University specifically for this interdisciplinary program, which focuses on collaboration between students and their communities to drive social change. Now, as she prepares to graduate with a B.S. in Education, Garnett credits CAPS with setting her on a clear path toward a master’s degree in Child Psychology.
“I chose UM specifically for CAPS,” Garnett said. “They prioritize interdisciplinary collaboration to make meaningful societal changes, and that mission aligned with everything I wanted to do.”
That mission took her beyond the classroom. Through the Civic Scholars program, Garnett secured a capstone internship at a youth mental health literacy nonprofit in her hometown of Worcester, Massachusetts.
Garnett’s most impactful moment came when she represented UM at Posters at the Capitol in Tallahassee. As one of the few social science representatives, she presented her capstone project and advocated for mental health recognition across all ages. Standing before state policymakers, she embraced the urgency of championing underrepresented issues
“I felt the urgency of representing youth mental health in spaces where it’s often overlooked,” Garnett said. “It solidified why this work matters.”
A transformative practicum at the Mailman Center solidified her direction. Working with the Families First Program and the Leadership Education in Neurodevelopmental and Related Disabilities training program, Garnett co-facilitated parenting workshops. She also contributed to a systems-level project tackling child neglect in Miami-Dade County.
Initially viewing herself as a budding advocate, she credits Mailman staff mentors with transforming her into a confident leader.
“Their trust and confidence in my abilities to make a difference in the lives of children and their families I will always carry with me,” Garnett said. “The Mailman staff challenged and supported me. They trusted my ability to make a difference, that confidence in me reshaped how I see my own potential.”
With a clear mission to focus on children through a grassroots lens, Garnett is ready for the next chapter. She plans to accept an offer to Vanderbilt University’s prestigious Child Studies program, prepared to advocate in spaces where youth mental health often goes unheard.
“I know now that I belong in community psychology,” Garnett said. “And I’m ready for what comes next.”
