Mental health advocate and psychology graduate Joshua Basella found his calling at California State University, Fullerton, becoming a force for positive change while diving into psychology.
Mr. Basella received the CSUF Alumni Association’s 2024 Outstanding Senior Award for his outstanding academic performance and community service.
Originally from Kadoma, Zimbabwe, Basela immigrated to the United States for college. He began his college career at Fresno City College. When it came time to transfer to a university to continue his education, he chose California State University, Fullerton because of its strong academic reputation and diverse campus.
Encouraged by his parents’ volunteer work, Basella discovered a passion for helping others.
“My choice to pursue psychology was not inspired by a single defining moment,” he said. “It was a byproduct of the many hours my siblings and I spent with our parents serving the community, my interest in mental illness, and the intersection of human behavior and biology.”
Basella’s dedication to research under California State University, Fullerton psychology professor Lisa Mori has helped eliminate mental health disparities among college students. This includes investigating mental illness and mental attitudes among ethnic and marginalized college students.
“These findings may help inform culturally appropriate treatment and cultural sensitivity on college campuses serving ethnically diverse students,” he said.
One of the opportunities Basella found at Cal State Fullerton was the Titan Scholars program, which prepares underrepresented community college transfer students for graduate school.
“I have benefited tremendously from this program. It is one of the many initiatives at Cal State Fullerton aimed at the long-term success of our students,” Basella said.
Basella aims to become a clinical psychologist who advocates for equal access to mental health care.
“College will always have a deep meaning in my life, and I am truly grateful for the privilege of being a part of the Titan family,” Basella said.
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About California State University Fullerton: California State University, Fullerton, CSU’s largest university and Orange County’s only campus, offers more than 100 degree programs and Division I athletics. Recognized as a national model for supporting student success, CSUF excels in innovative and high-impact educational practices, including faculty-student collaborations, study abroad, and competitive internships. CSUF is a top public university known for its success in supporting first-generation, underrepresented students and preparing all students to be leaders in the global marketplace. Our vibrant and diverse campus is a major driver of the region’s workforce and economic development. Visit fullerton.edu.
