Juliana Ortiz

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Personal Information
Applicant Name	Juliana Ortiz
Applicant Email	Email hidden; Javascript is required.
Training Level	Graduate student
City of Residence	Miami
Distance to Chicago, IL	> 2 hour flight
Age	24
Gender identity and pronouns	female - she, hers
Have you ever attended an AACN annual meeting?	Yes
The following list includes characteristics of historically underrepresented groups. Please select all characteristics that represent you and/or describe other diverse facets of your identity in the “Other” option.	Hispanic/Latine Bilingual/multilingual
Funding Opportunitites
I would like to be considered for the following funding opportunities.	Student/Trainee Leader Student/Trainee Assistant Student/Trainee Scholarship SPS Conference Mentor
If selected for both Student Leader/Assistant and SPS Conference Mentor, I would prefer:	SPS Conference Mentor
Application for Student Assistant
By applying to be a student assistant, you agree to the following responsibilities/commitments:	I carefully reviewed the above responsibilities/commitments and agree with all of them. Job responsibilities: Cover shifts at the Help Desk. Help with scanning attendees for CE workshops. Maintain regular communication with student conference leaders and help problem solve any issues that arise. Attend a one-hour orientation virtually before the conference. Time commitment: Six to nine hours over the course of the conference.
Would you like to be considered for complimentary lodging?	Yes, please.
In-Person Volunteer Slots	Thursday, June 12, 2025 (Morning) Thursday, June 12, 2025 (Afternoon) Friday, June 13, 2025 (Morning) Friday, June 13, 2025 (Afternoon)
Application for Conference Leader
By applying to be a conference leader, you agree to the following responsibilities/commitments:	I carefully reviewed the above responsibilities/commitments and agree with all of them. Job responsibilities: Attend select Conference Committee meetings. These currently occur the first Wednesday of the month at 4 PM ET. Help recruit student assistants via listservs and organizations (e.g., AACN, INS, etc.). Communicate with prospective student assistants regularly via email, text message, and/or online meetings as needed. Organize pertinent information (e.g., contact info, tentative availability during the conference). Schedule 1-2 training sessions with student assistants (using videoconferencing). Review job duties and answer questions with support from the Technology Manager and Conference Co-Chair(s). Keep up with changes that are made throughout the recruitment phase to assure all students assistants are updated. Create a schedule for student assistants based on availability and conference needs. Communicate job duties with student assistants. Problem solve changes to the schedule. Cover shifts at the Help Desk. Support student assistants and keep things organized. Maintain regular communication with your co-coordinator to problem solving if any issues that arise. Communicate with the Technology Manager, Conference Co-Chair(s), local event planners, Education Chair, and President as needed. Relay solutions to student assistants. Time commitment: 1-2 hours per month for attending meetings. Spring time leading up to the conference: Up to 15 hours per week creating and editing the schedule as well as communicating with your co-coordinator, committee, and student assistants. Arrive at conference Tuesday evening or Wednesday (6/11/24 or 6/12/24) before registration opens on Wednesday early afternoon and remain available through late afternoon Saturday (6/14/23) when the conference ends. Cover the Help Desk approximately three 4-hour shifts (12 hours total).
Are you actively involved (e.g., leadership/service position, volunteer at annual meeting(s), poster presentations) in AACN?	No
Personal Statement	As a first-year PsyD student specializing in neuropsychology, I am committed to contributing to the field and engaging with the neuropsychological community. This leadership position aligns perfectly with my professional goals and personal values. I am eager to immerse myself in the inner workings of the AACN conference, learning from professionals while supporting the organization’s efforts to provide attendees with a seamless and impactful experience. By taking on this role, I aim to enhance my organizational, leadership, and communication skills, which are vital for a future career in neuropsychology. I am particularly excited about the opportunity to work collaboratively with professionals and peers, further developing my ability to manage complex tasks and foster connections within the neuropsychological community. Furthermore, attending the conference will expose me to cutting-edge research and clinical advancements, which I aim to incorporate into my academic and professional development. This role is not just a chance to give back but also a way to grow as a clinician and leader in the field. This position could present several challenges, including managing the needs of student assistants, ensuring timely communication, and adapting to last-minute schedule changes. To address these challenges, I plan to utilize effective communication, adaptability, problem-solving, and supportive leadership strategies. I will keep student assistants informed and confident by sending regular updates through email and videoconferencing. I will also set up open channels for feedback so concerns can be addressed early. Unexpected changes, like last-minute cancellations, will require quick thinking and teamwork. I will stay in close contact with my co-coordinator and the Conference Committee to find and apply solutions quickly while keeping everything on track. Creating a positive and encouraging atmosphere for student assistants will help keep them motivated and reduce stress. I will provide clear instructions and empathize with their needs to feel appreciated and confident. While this is my first opportunity to serve in a leadership role at a professional conference, my experience as a Clinical Research Coordinator has provided me with a solid foundation in leadership, organization, and problem-solving that will directly benefit me in this role. I independently managed the 1Florida Alzheimer's Disease Research Center (ADRC) study at the University of Miami’s Center for Cognitive Neuroscience and Aging, overseeing a range of responsibilities that mirror the demands of this position. For instance, I have coordinated and scheduled complex study visits involving medical evaluations, neuropsychological testing, neuroimaging, and bio-specimen collections—tasks that required thorough planning and attention to detail, like organizing student assistant schedules for the conference. Additionally, I have conducted neuropsychological evaluations in English and Spanish, demonstrating practical communication skills essential for collaborating with diverse student assistants and professionals. My role also included presenting progress reports and addressing challenges in weekly team meetings, showcasing my ability to synthesize information and propose solutions. This skill will be invaluable when managing conference logistics and troubleshooting issues. Furthermore, submitting cases for diagnostic evaluations has honed my ability to manage high-stakes responsibilities. This aligns with the need for accurate and efficient communication in this leadership role.
Curriculum Vitae	Curriculum-Vitae_Juliana-Ortiz_-2024.pdf
Application for Scholarship	Travel scholarship awardees are provided with free conference registration and reimbursement of up to $550 of travel expenses to support conference attendance, including meals, hotel stay, and airfare.
Please provide a paragraph describing an example of your commitment to service.	My commitment to service is exemplified through my volunteer work with the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) and Encephalitis International. At NAMI Miami, I managed social media platforms, created educational content, and conducted outreach to promote mental health awareness and resources. I also served as a Team Leader for the annual NAMIWalk Miami-Dade, fostering community engagement and support for the organization’s mission. Through this role, I developed skills in leadership, event planning, and community building. Additionally, my role with Encephalitis International involved providing information and support to individuals affected by encephalitis, conducting research, and serving as a Mental Health Ambassador. I have had the privilege of raising awareness through events such as the annual World Encephalitis Day (RED4WED) Walk and sharing my insights as a podcast guest and conference speaker. These experiences reflect my dedication to empowering others, raising awareness about neurological and mental health issues, and creating meaningful connections within the community.
Please provide a paragraph describing an example of your ability to persevere or achieve despite barriers.	As a Latina woman pursuing a career in neuropsychology, I have faced challenges that have strengthened my resilience and determination. Growing up in a culture where mental health is often stigmatized, I was driven to challenge stereotypes and advocate for mental health awareness within my community. This advocacy became a personal mission, as I sought to educate others on the importance of mental health and its impact on overall well-being. Balancing rigorous academic pursuits with personal responsibilities has also taught me to manage competing demands effectively and remain focused on my goals. Despite barriers such as navigating systemic inequities in education and representation, I have remained committed to creating a space for underrepresented voices in the field of neuropsychology. These challenges have further fueled my passion for fostering inclusivity and diversity in the mental health field. These experiences have not only shaped my perspective but have also instilled in me a deep commitment to breaking down barriers for others.
Please provide a paragraph discussing the potential benefits of your conference attendance to you and the professional community.	As a first-year PsyD student specializing in neuropsychology, attending the AACN conference represents an invaluable opportunity to deepen my understanding of the field and contribute to the neuropsychological community. This scholarship will enable me to participate in a premier event that showcases cutting-edge research, clinical advancements, and innovative practices. Engaging with experts and peers at the conference will not only enhance my academic and professional development but also allow me to bring valuable insights back to my program and colleagues. The knowledge and connections gained through this experience will empower me to contribute meaningfully to the field as I continue my training. By attending the conference, I hope to expand my understanding of emerging trends in neuropsychology and foster relationships that support collaboration and mentorship. This scholarship is more than financial assistance, it is an opportunity to invest in my growth as a future clinician and advocate for the neuropsychological community.
Application for Conference Mentor Award
By applying to be a conference leader, you agree to the following responsibilities/commitments:	I carefully reviewed the above responsibilities/commitments and agree with all of them. Job responsibilities: Attend select Conference Committee meetings. These currently occur the first Wednesday of the month at 4 PM ET. Help recruit student assistants via listservs and organizations (e.g., AACN, INS, etc.). Communicate with prospective student assistants regularly via email, text message, and/or online meetings as needed. Organize pertinent information (e.g., contact info, tentative availability during the conference). Schedule 1-2 training sessions with student assistants (using videoconferencing). Review job duties and answer questions with support from the Technology Manager and Conference Co-Chair(s). Keep up with changes that are made throughout the recruitment phase to assure all students assistants are updated. Create a schedule for student assistants based on availability and conference needs. Communicate job duties with student assistants. Problem solve changes to the schedule. Cover shifts at the Help Desk. Support student assistants and keep things organized. Maintain regular communication with your co-coordinator to problem solving if any issues that arise. Communicate with the Technology Manager, Conference Co-Chair(s), local event planners, Education Chair, and President as needed. Relay solutions to student assistants. Time commitment: 1-2 hours per month for attending meetings. Spring time leading up to the conference: Up to 15 hours per week creating and editing the schedule as well as communicating with your co-coordinator, committee, and student assistants. Arrive at conference Tuesday evening or Wednesday (6/11/24 or 6/12/24) before registration opens on Wednesday early afternoon and remain available through late afternoon Saturday (6/14/23) when the conference ends. Cover the Help Desk approximately three 4-hour shifts (12 hours total).
In 500 words or fewer, please describe (1) your prior mentorship experience and what you feel you can offer mentees from historically underrepresented backgrounds at the AACN annual meeting, and (2) how this mentorship experience will contribute to your professional goals. You also may describe the ways in which attending the AACN Annual Meeting would represent a financial hardship for you without this award.	As a first-year PsyD student specializing in neuropsychology, mentorship has always been a cornerstone of my journey. My prior experiences as a Team Leader for the Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s, Marketing Director for the Plant-Based Nutrition Club, and Assistant Director for the Hispanic Student Culture Organization’s 5K reflect my commitment to leadership and fostering growth in others. In each of these roles, I collaborated with diverse teams, supported peers in achieving shared goals, and created inclusive spaces for engagement and connection. These experiences have taught me the value of mentorship in empowering individuals to overcome barriers, especially those from historically underrepresented backgrounds. If selected as a mentor for the AACN Annual Meeting, I would strive to provide a welcoming, supportive environment for mentees. Drawing on my background as a Latina woman, I understand the unique challenges faced by individuals from underrepresented groups, such as navigating systemic inequities, limited representation, and balancing personal and professional identities. I aim to share my insights and strategies for resilience while fostering open discussions about mentees’ goals, challenges, and opportunities. Additionally, I can guide mentees in building professional networks, developing leadership skills, and identifying resources to support their growth. This mentorship experience aligns directly with my professional goals. As an aspiring neuropsychologist, I am committed to advancing diversity and inclusion in the field. Mentoring at the AACN Annual Meeting would not only allow me to support emerging professionals but also strengthen my ability to guide future patients and colleagues with empathy and understanding. This opportunity to mentor and learn from mentees will refine my communication, cultural competency, and leadership skills, which are essential tools for my clinical and academic career. My passion for mentorship stems from my own experience as a mentee during last year’s AACN Annual Meeting through the N2N program. Having a mentor who guided me, shared their wisdom, and encouraged me during this pivotal stage of my career was transformative. It gave me the confidence to pursue opportunities, navigate challenges, and envision my path in neuropsychology. The support and encouragement I received inspired me to pay it forward by offering the same guidance and empowerment to others attending the conference. Financially, attending the AACN Annual Meeting would be a challenge without this award. As a graduate student, my resources are very limited, and this scholarship would alleviate the burden of travel and conference expenses. Attending this meeting would allow me to engage with cutting-edge research and clinical advancements while fostering meaningful connections with leaders and peers in neuropsychology. These experiences will enrich my training, broaden my perspective, and inspire me to continue advocating for equity and representation within the field. Ultimately, serving as a mentor at the AACN Annual Meeting represents an opportunity to give back to the neuropsychological community, support others in achieving their goals, and grow as a clinician and leader. By creating space for underrepresented voices and sharing my journey, I hope to inspire and empower the next generation of neuropsychologists.
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