Jarreka Hurt, a 21-year-old senior at Rogers State University, has spent most of her life in Claremore. Since moving to the community at the age of five, she has found purpose in giving back to the town she calls home. Currently majoring in community counseling with a minor in psychology, Jarreka is focused on building a future dedicated to supporting others through mental health counseling and animal-assisted therapy.

Jarreka’s long-term goal is to help young adults lead fulfilling lives, using counseling as a tool to address mental health challenges such as depression and anxiety. Her personal experiences with these conditions have shaped her ambition and drive. Having navigated her own struggles, she is now motivated to guide others toward healing and stability.

Jarreka is a member of the President’s Leadership Program at Rogers State University, where she has taken on active roles in student and community-focused initiatives. Through the program’s Dr. Larry Rice Fellowship, Jarreka served as a board of directors intern with Light of Hope, a Claremore-based nonprofit. This experience allowed her to work closely with an organization dedicated to supporting individuals through addiction recovery and mental health services, reinforcing her commitment to nonprofit work.

In addition to her academic focus and internship experience, Jarreka has also achieved several milestones in college. She was named Outstanding Junior in 2025 by the President’s Leadership Class. She is a member of Psi Chi, the National Honor Society for Psychology, where she also serves as the Student Government Association Representative. Her academic record includes consistent recognition on both the President’s List and the Dean’s Honor Roll.

Though her journey has included challenges, Jarreka has developed strategies to stay balanced while supporting others. She has learned that maintaining her own mental health is essential to sustaining her work in counseling. Activities like spending time with animals, attending church, being outdoors, and staying connected with family help her manage stress and stay grounded.

The demands of working in mental health can be heavy, especially given the rising global rates of depression and anxiety. Despite the scope of the issue, Jarreka stays focused on helping individuals one at a time. She finds meaning in the idea that making a difference in even a single life is a significant and worthwhile achievement.

Her outlook is shaped by personal insight, professional development, and hands-on experience with nonprofits. Jarreka's path reflects a combination of academic success, community engagement, and personal resilience. As she prepares for her final year at Rogers State University, she remains focused on her long-term goal of becoming a counselor who helps others find peace and purpose.

Jarreka’s approach emphasizes empathy and the importance of consistent, small acts of support. She encourages others interested in similar work to remain patient, stay connected to their motivations, and take care of their own well-being. Her efforts to create change in Claremore and beyond show how one person can contribute meaningfully to the lives of others through education, service, and compassion.