Emily Yang

Internship Program June to July 2026
Psychology Major, Boston University

As an observant child growing up, I was always interested in what makes each person unique. I often wondered how a community could not only accommodate our differences but also create an environment in which those differences could thrive. Majoring in psychology allowed me to explore this curiosity further. Through my studies, I learned more about the mental health challenges that can affect learning, social relationships, and an individual’s ability to cope with life’s difficulties.

I reflected on my memories back home in Jakarta on whether these differences and struggles have been acknowledged in my own community. When I thought about conversations surrounding mental health, I remembered the sorrow, uncertainty, and discomfort that often accompanied the topic. Seeking counseling or seeing a psychologist was sometimes associated with being “mad” and therefore viewed as unacceptable in society. Yet, I believed there had to be a community in Jakarta that cared about mental health and provided people a platform to speak openly in a society where they might not otherwise feel able to do so.

“Welcome to REMISI. You are in a safe space.” I read on REMISI’s website. 

The warm and welcoming language immediately presented a different representation of mental health from what I had grown up with. REMISI emphasizes awareness, education, and counseling while creating opportunities for those who may be vulnerable or unheard to share their experiences and advocate for themselves. 

Although my time in Jakarta working with REMISI was brief, it left me with a strong sense of hope for the future of mental health acceptance in our society. At REMISI, I had the opportunity to work alongside mentors from diverse professional backgrounds, each of whom brought not only their expertise but also their honest, personal experiences with mental health.

By observing support groups and collaborating with the team to develop thoughtful, supportive, and effective sessions for participants, I witnessed a community deeply committed to raising awareness about the importance of mental health in everyday life. The emphasis on self-awareness, understanding, and acceptance at REMISI demonstrated how meaningful conversations and compassionate support can create lasting impact.

I will carry the stories of the mentors and participants with me, and I hope to bring the same compassion, openness, and dedication that I witnessed this summer into my own future career.