Many, if not all, of us have experienced trials and tribulations in our lives prior to our time at UC berkeley. I know I have. I emerged from a home severely traumatized by domestic violence, only to fall victim to the aftermath of the trauma.Cognitive learning theory in the classroom the start of my college career, typically considered a positive milestone, was very difficult because of the pervasive impact my trauma had on my ability to function day to day.Cognitive learning theory in the classroom and while my mother raised me with a heavy emphasis on education — a value that brought me to UC berkeley — once I was here, I could not bring myself to see its importance.Cognitive learning theory in the classroom at the time, all I really wanted was to drink. It was the temporary relief I needed.

I understand how alarming that last sentence sounds, but it would be more alarming not to understand the impact of trauma and how it leaves people at an elevated risk for coping mechanisms like substance abuse.Cognitive learning theory in the classroom many of us experience trauma during childhood, others do later in life, and a few never have to familiarize themselves with the pain. Nonetheless, trauma can redefine who we are.Cognitive learning theory in the classroom drinking was one of many coping mechanisms that I turned to, not surprisingly with many unpleasant complications and consequences.

Being a part of UC berkeley’s campus, one of about 40,000 students walking through it daily, has been an overwhelming experience to say the least.Cognitive learning theory in the classroom with such a massive student body, I found it difficult to create meaningful relationships. Even joining organizations to form a more close-knit community was challenging.Cognitive learning theory in the classroom but I did find friendships. I formed some of the strongest bonds with people who I shared a living space with — the same people with whom I shared anxieties about college and who related to many of the experiences I’d had.Cognitive learning theory in the classroom

But beyond friendships, UC berkeley has given me something else — empowerment. With its historical role in the free speech movement, it has allowed me to find my ground, to vocalize my identity as a domestic violence survivor.Cognitive learning theory in the classroom with its emphasis on tolerance across communities, I have learned so much about my peers, their values and their identities. From the campus’s incredible professors, instructors, faculty and staff, I received invaluable mentorship, kindness and knowledge.Cognitive learning theory in the classroom

An institution dedicated to validating the experiences of all its students, UC berkeley has allowed me to teach a course on domestic violence — a course that acquainted me with 28 strong individuals with their own stories to tell.Cognitive learning theory in the classroom and at the daily californian — this campus’s long-standing, independent, student-run newspaper — UC berkeley has allowed me to put my experiences into words.Cognitive learning theory in the classroom

I am still affected by my trauma every day. It influences my emotional, physical and cognitive responses. But the difference between the ways trauma has affected me in the past and how it affects me now is that I am consciously aware of its presence in my life.Cognitive learning theory in the classroom I am learning to anticipate my triggers as well cope with them in a healthy way — a way that does not involve me repressing experiences that have shaped my character and heavily influenced the career path I hope to embark on as a domestic violence attorney and advocate.Cognitive learning theory in the classroom

I believe that recovery is achieved not by forgetting the experiences that caused you pain, but by consistently and directly addressing the ways they continue to impact various elements of your life.Cognitive learning theory in the classroom by understanding my responses, I have gained a sense of control and have learned a lot about the person I am today. And I am grateful for the people who contributed to my path to recovery.Cognitive learning theory in the classroom