Passaic Today

Montclair State University recently hosted the Male Enrollment and Graduation Alliance (MEGA) Symposium, where over 250 high school students gathered to discuss and share experiences of triumphing over trauma. The event, themed "Triumph over Trauma," provided a safe space for students to open up about their struggles and coping mechanisms.

James Aragon and Nelson Aquino, ninth-graders from James J. Ferris High School in Jersey City, expressed their appreciation for the discussions on trauma. Aragon highlighted the importance of addressing problems to prevent depression, while Aquino reflected on the impact of learning coping skills and supporting friends through difficult experiences.

Wilfred Kounde, a senior at American History High School in Newark, found inspiration in the symposium as he pursues a career in psychology. He shared, "As a person who wants to go into psychology, to hear grown men who look like me talk about their experiences with trauma gives me more hope to keep going with the field that I want to pursue."

The event, organized by Tatiá M. Haywood, aimed to encourage young men, particularly Black and Latinx individuals, to pursue higher education. Psychologist Enmanuel Mercedes emphasized the importance of healing from trauma, stating, "We're not broken. We are wounded and in the process of healing."

Daniel Jean, Assistant Provost for Special Programs, shared his personal story to promote inclusivity and resilience. He encouraged attendees to seek resources and support to achieve their dreams and overcome past traumas.

The symposium also featured the Barbershop.EDU College Life Panel, where students received haircuts while engaging with panelists. Montclair State University senior Matthew Salazar emphasized the importance of mental health and seeking therapy as a way to cope with stress and challenges.

Omar Santos, a senior from East Side High School in Newark, appreciated the opportunity to visit a higher education campus for the first time. The symposium included cultural performances and a spoken-word piece titled "Baggage," highlighting the burdens faced by young men of color in pursuing higher education.

The program concluded with an awards presentation, honoring individuals like Carolina E. González with the MEGA Founder Award and recognizing the impactful work of Altarik White and Michael Spence with MEGA Impact Awards.

The symposium at Montclair State University served as a platform for young men to share their experiences, learn coping strategies, and find inspiration to overcome trauma and pursue their educational and personal goals.