Gerpha Gerlin
Gerpha supports the management and mentorship logistics within ASLA's peer learning programs. She is also a PhD student in the anthropology department and MPH student in the program in public health. Gerpha's research and practice areas center around better understanding and facilitating recovery from chronic mental illness. She enjoys supporting students across a range of diverse backgrounds, learning styles, and life experiences as they work to become the best versions of their unique selves.
What is most meaningful to you about your work?
The ability to help students feel like they are resources in and of themselves. I think college is a time where so many of us are in so much self-doubt, and spaces like ASLA's connect us to peers who are working through similar concerns as they develop their learning and leadership skills.
What’s some advice you would give to your college-age self?
Ti pa, ti pa (Haitian Creole for "little by little").
What is a prior life experience that you draw on in your work?
During difficult periods, I try to remember the joy of being able to lean on community for care. I have been very fortunate to have life-giving mentorship throughout my education, especially as someone who lives with chronic illness. I look forward to the opportunity to share these tools with other students — particularly as someone still in school myself. I want to be a professor and be with other students forever. My ongoing educational journey continues to be quite formative in that aspect.
What’s something you enjoy when you’re not at work?
I am a huge nerd and even bigger foodie, so I'm likely flipping between the pages of a book in-between baking an entirely too-sweet dessert.