For Align Magazine, a student-run publication at the University of Oregon, I wrote a personal essay titled Healthy Confrontation, exploring how to navigate difficult conversations with honesty, self-respect, and care for others. The piece was selected as the editorial team's "Writer's Choice," an honor that meant a great deal to me because it reflected personal growth and an experience I was passionate about sharing.

This piece challenged me to reflect on how I present myself in relationships, how I establish boundaries, and how I navigate discomfort without compromising my compassion. I wanted to help readers feel less alone in the vulnerable process of speaking up — and maybe even feel more confident doing it themselves (2023).