Ravali Vallurupalli

1. Tell us a little about yourself…

My name is Ravali Vallurupalli. I am currently a junior at Valencia High School in the International Baccalaureate Program. I am involved in many school activities like Mock Trial, Future Business Leaders of America, and TedX. I am also involved in a handful of nonprofits outside of school like Work2BeWell, California Association of Student Councils, and EmpowerByHour. In my free time I enjoy baking, room decorating, and driving.

In the future, my goal is to become a psychiatrist and youth mental health advocate. Becoming a psychiatrist will help me better people’s lives to the greatest extent, but advocacy will connect me to a supportive and welcoming community of peers while also improving societal standards of mental health — both of which are my passions.

1. What is your connection to Orange County?

I moved to Orange County a year ago at the beginning of the 2022-2023 school year. The move was sudden. It took a total of two weeks to find a house, move in, register for school, transfer jobs and everything else that comes with moving. I initially did not want to move, but the environment and community I found myself surrounded in was greatly welcoming, motivating — something I realized I did not have before. Having been living in this county for almost a year, I see it was the best choice made back then — one that I do not regret now.

1. Share a little bit of your outlook on life…

Do everything you think you want to. Because in 10 years from now, it would be devastating to look back and realize that you missed an amazing opportunity because of one choice to do the easy thing. I want my life to have as many paths open as possible so I have the power to decide what is best for me if I have even 1% doubt. As I get older, this outlook continues to solidify in me. It may be my greatest motivator but also my greatest fear.

1. What is your favorite book?

My favorite book series is The Selection by Kiera Cass. It is a fictional series about royals, rebellions, and romance. It has everything to do with nothing in reality. But I guess that is one reason why I love it. It provided escape from a life that at the time would knock me down either materially or emotionally. While escapism, the constant need for relief from unpleasant realities, can be unproductive and harmful, taking a break is healthy which is what this series gave me — a break.

1. What is your favorite self-care activity?

My favorite self-care activity is to spend time outdoors during sunset; whether that’s driving in my car or taking my dog for a walk or sitting in a park. In my car, I often keep my windows down to feel a fresh breeze. When I walk my dog, I love the interactions I have with members in my community which brightens my day. Sitting in the park gives me a moment to slow down in an otherwise fast-paced world. It makes me more aware of my surroundings and myself.

1. What drew you to being involved with community mental health work or advocacy?

Growing up in a dysfunctional family, I constantly attended to the emotional needs of my mother, father, sister, and four grandparents. No one asked this of me but I instantly filled the role. Over the last two years I realized that my capacity to listen to others was something I enjoyed and something I was good at. Since then, I found myself on a path towards mental health advocacy, but the work kicked into high gear after the personal mental health struggles I faced last year.

1. What is your preferred art medium (for example: writing, drawing, painting, graphic design, etc.)?

There are so many wonderful forms of expression, but my preferred art medium, whether it’s listening to the lyrics or singing along, would have to be music.

1. What drew you to your preferred art medium?

The earliest song I remember singing to is “Who Says” by Selena Gomez as a 4-year-old in my grandparents’ bedroom. Even then, I paid attention to the lyrics and thought the sentiment was so positive. Obviously a 4-year-old doesn’t go too into depth about the meaning behind a song. But as I continued to grow, I would try finding a connection between me and the lyrics in songs. After doing it so much, music I played on loop became associated with certain memories. Music is such a big part of society and culture, so while listening to music isn’t rare, I never stopped connecting to the lyrics.

1. What role have the arts played in your life, especially your mental health?

As a teenager who has been conditioned to hide my emotions, thoughts, and opinions, I needed an outlet. Punching bags aren’t readily available, so music became the next best thing which I didn’t know I needed. Music helps me express the thoughts I can’t say to people. The lyrics act as my thoughts to situations in my own life which I compare them to. I am eternally grateful to Spotify.

1. What do you think Orange County can do more of to help reduce the stigma surrounding mental health?

I think there is always more to be done regarding mental health. More events. More presentations. More resources. But I feel a critical focal point of mental health should be assisting the youth in schools. High schoolers face many challenges as we work to discover ourselves and prepare for adulthood. School resources are lacking severely as some schools lack funding or professionals to educate students and faculty. More presentations and events targeted towards schools would greatly benefit the mental health crisis and stigma in Orange County.

1. Why do you think youth/young adults should attend community mental health events, like those hosted by Connect-OC?

So many people have mental health issues that they may not even realize. Attending events like the ones Connect-OC hosts are informative and empowering. These events are also an instant way to know you are not alone. I have attended quite a few events like these, and each time, I leave feeling more peace and positivity.