Breaking the Stigma
Carmelle Jean-Francois graduated from Delaware Tech in 2016 from the human services program. Since then, she has obtained her master's degree in social work from Delaware State University.
She is a proud first-generation college graduate. "Coming from a foreign country, I know that there are a lot of people dying to be in the United States. I'm very fortunate because not everyone has the chance that I have today," Jean-Francois said. "I had the opportunity and I'm taking advantage of it."
Jean-Francois grew up in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, and came to Delaware when she was 10 years old. She moved in 2001, only two weeks after 9/11.
She chose the human services path at Delaware Tech because she loves helping people and being able to be there for people. "You never know what people are going through," said Jean-Francois.
Another important reason why Jean-Francois entered the field was her desire to change the stigma of mental health in her community. "In my culture, as a Haitian woman, they believe that mental health is a taboo topic to discuss. That's something that I want to change for myself, my family, and my culture."
During her time at the College, Jean-Francois credits Allison Castellanos, Michele Warch, and the student center for all their support. "Dr. Castellanos was very good to me. The teachers were amazing, and Michele Warch was my rock. The student center was always there for me."
To any prospective students planning on attending Delaware Tech, Jean-Francois wants them to believe in themselves. "You can achieve anything. Push your way through, no matter how hard things may get. Always get up when you fall."
Now, Jean-Francois works as a mental health counselor at CORAS Wellness and Behavioral Health in Millsboro, Delaware. Her goal is to become a licensed clinical therapist that specializes in trauma.
"I want to help people overcome what they've been through. I want them to know that they can get through anything," Jean-Francois said.
Most importantly, Jean-Francois has advice for anyone that may find it difficult to seek help for their mental health. "Some people that are struggling with their mental health are afraid to tell their story, because they may feel afraid of being judged, but it will be okay.
"If you don't talk about it, then you're going to keep struggling with it," she said. "It may feel hard, but you have to take that leap of faith. You never know where that leap may take you and what light may come out of the other side of the tunnel."
