My name is Blake Heffron, and I am currently a sophomore at the University of Dubuque majoring in Flight Operations and minoring in Aviation Management. I am a slot receiver for the University of Dubuque football team. My hometown is Gilbert, Arizona where I graduated from Chandler High School in 2024. In my time at the University of Dubuque, I have developed a deeper understanding of the importance of taking care of your mental health. Growing up I was always told to push through and keep my emotions hidden. However, I have learned that it is ok to not be ok and speak up about how I am feeling. I have been able to express my emotions through the football program by weekly check-ins with my coach. My teammates have also created a safe space for me to talk ab
out my health because they have bought into our mental health program. One of the topics I talk about frequently is homesickness. Being so far away from home, I never understood the importance of family and the daily check-ins from my parents. I was not like the others. For example, students would be able to go home to their families every weekend while I could only visit once a year. This program allowed me to find a new family that loves me the same as my biological one. The University of Dubuque has furthered my mental health by coaches and staff teaching me to become not only a better man but a better teammate, student, and family member.
