Alumni Name: Aliye Karakoyun
Graduation Year: 2014
Current Position: Mental Health Counselor at RCSA Middle and High
In this issue we are featuring Aliye Karakoyun, a member of RCSA's graduating class of 2014, who earned the distinction of valedictorian and later became an alumna of the University of Florida. Aliye's academic journey includes the completion of a bachelor's degree in psychology with a minor in family youth and community sciences. Her commitment to mental health continued as she pursued a combined master's and specialist degree program in Clinical Mental Health Counseling.
During her time at the University of Florida, Aliye received the opportunity to work with children who have faced abuse and neglect at the Child Advocacy Center, where she implemented play therapy to address their unique needs. Later, she transitioned to working with college students at the Student Counseling Center at Jacksonville University, where she supported the mental health needs of college students through individual sessions and in the classroom.
In a full circle return to her roots, Aliye dedicated her efforts post-COVID to working with middle and high school students at RCSA. Her contributions encompass providing one-on-one individual therapy, elevating mental health awareness within the school system, and actively engaging in prevention and outreach initiatives. Aliye takes great pride in her ability to give back to RCSA through her commitment for mental health advocacy.
In recent alumni events, we gathered for a delightful dinner on December 22 at the school, fostering connections and sharing memories. Later, on February 14, we had the pleasure of visiting our alumni at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, catching up on their journeys and experiences. Additionally, Karen Khamphanthirath, a distinguished graduate from the class of 2019, generously shared her insights with our 11th and 12th-grade students, providing valuable guidance for their future paths. These events have strengthened our RCSA community, creating lasting bonds between current students and our accomplished alumni.
Looking ahead, we're excited to connect with our alumni in the Orlando area! Plans are underway for a visit to the University of Central Florida (UCF) to catch up with former students and hear about their experiences. Keep an eye out for updates as we finalize the details for this upcoming alumni gathering. It's an excellent opportunity for networking and sharing stories.
Anissa Wilkinson (RCSA Class of 2020): Navigating the unpredictable journey of life often leads to unexpected changes and opportunities. As I reflect on my own post-graduation experience, I would like to share a piece of advice with the new graduates: keep an open mind. Until 12th grade, I was certain I would be pursuing medicine; it was in my Calculus class that I realized I was a lot better at math than at science. Since then, I've had my heart set on becoming an actuary, but I couldn’t pass any actuarial exams in college and now I'm working as an underwriter while I complete the preliminary exams. Life isn't predictable and it isn't going to adhere to your schedule. Pursue your ambitions and hold yourself to high standards but be adaptable and able to bounce back from failure (whether it be actual or perceived). I've struggled with anxiety my whole life and have had to learn the hard way that no matter how dire or bleak change might seem, things are going to be okay.
