Mission Supports Student's Academic Resilience and Recovery

For Immediate Release

Saratoga, CA - Beginning at age nineteen, Brittany Gunnell survived numerous inpatient mental health hospitalizations over the course of a decade. Despite these challenges, she graduated from UC Berkeley with a bachelor’s degree in 2019. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she once again faced hospitalizations as well as housing insecurity. No longer housing insecure, Brittany is currently studying at Mission College where she is on track to graduate with an Associate of Arts degree (AA) in psychology.

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After several years focusing on her health and recovery, in 2023 she chose Mission with the understanding that it would be a positive environment where she could continue to grow personally as well as academically.

“As I have studied and applied myself each semester, I have felt a much-needed return to a sense of self-confidence and belief in myself. As a result of the challenges of the mental health system, the revolving door had kept my sense of self-efficacy diminished, and I no longer believed in myself,” Brittany said.

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College Students with Mental Illness

According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), 64% of college students with mental health conditions withdraw from school. Many never return. Brittany’s journey back to the classroom - as an adult - highlights how rare and courageous it is to pursue higher education after prolonged mental health struggles.

“A big part of my recovery has been learning to advocate for myself and remember my strengths. Feedback from my Mission College professors on various assignments has reinforced skills I have not utilized in years while also supportively pointing out specific ways I can improve.”

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A Balanced Approach to Academic and a Healthy Recovery

Life on its own is a balancing act, but combining mental health recovery with academics can be especially difficult. Mission College’s counseling and academic offerings brought forth opportunities Brittany sought.

“Mission College’s online courses have provided a flexibility that has allowed me to pursue my interests. These courses are rigorous and do not sacrifice quality,” Brittany said. “I have been enrolled approximately half-time each semester which helps me avoid overcrowding my schedule. I can fully immerse myself in the material and engage with the new information in deeper ways as well as work part-time with NAMI and dog-sit.”

Mission College stood out to Brittany as having met her qualifications including professor achievements, a variety of course offerings, well-qualified counselors, and positive past students’ experiences. She trusted that it would provide a good platform to earn her a psychology AA and be prepared for graduate school.

Psychology A.A. and Peer Mentorship: A Path to Giving Back

Brittany’s decision to earn an A.A. in Psychology is a way for her to balance her ongoing interest in learning with her passion for connecting with peers, where she can give her time to others and be supportive in and out of school.

As a peer mentor with the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), Santa Clara County, Brittany firmly believes in the purpose of the program: to foster mental wellness and encourage independence for individuals diagnosed with mental health conditions through peer support.

“Mission College’s Psychology classes have inspired critical thinking and self-reflection that has enriched my understanding of my own lived experience and thus made me a better listener.” She said, “Each in their own way, my classes have helped me to become a better source of support for others as I provide empathy and utilize the program’s motto: ‘no fixing, no saving, no advising, no setting each other straight.”

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A Journey of Courage and Self-Advocacy

Brittany’s journey has not been without its challenges, but her determination to overcome them drives her forward. She is grateful for her support system, especially her family and friends in addition to her Mission College counselor, for helping her take the next steps in her journey. One pivotal moment came when Brittany met Rebecca Tran, an Academic Counselor at Mission College.

“She provided a clear explanation of various options and how I could navigate resources. I shared with her my history and what brought me to Mission and ever since, I’ve felt a deep gratitude for her support in helping me plan my course selections,” Brittany said. “She has continued to provide positive affirmation and guidance that reminds me how I am fully capable of excelling (especially when I am hard on myself) and that when I decide to apply to graduate school, I will be ready.”

Rebecca Tran, who has guided many students through personal and academic challenges, shared her admiration for Brittany’s growth.

“Brittany’s journey is a testament to resilience and the power of support,” Tran said. “It’s been inspiring to watch her regain her confidence and passion for learning. We’re proud to be part of her story.”

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Looking Ahead: A Future of Giving Back and Growth

Brittany’s goals include earning a Master’s in Social Work (MSW) and continuing to engage in peer support.

“It can be easy to compare myself to other people my age and where I sometimes feel I ‘should’ be in life, but then I remind myself that everyone’s path is unique. I honestly would not trade everything I have been through as it has given me a perspective and understanding I wouldn’t have otherwise,” she said.

Brittany’s story is a reminder of the importance of resilience, self-compassion, and the transformative power of education. With the care of both her personal network and the resources at Mission College, she is rebuilding her own life while simultaneously helping others do the same.

Benjamin Demers
Director of Marketing and Public Relations
[email protected]