Jülide Almira Gentry
Julide Almira Gentry is a master’s student in Clinical Psychology at Teachers College, Columbia University, where she focuses on global mental health and interdisciplinary approaches to psychological well-being. Her passion for psychology began during her undergraduate studies, where she pursued a uniquely interdisciplinary academic path—earning a double major in psychology and English with minors in literature and music. Growing up in a country shaped by political and cultural turmoil inspired her desire to be part of meaningful change in the world, guiding her toward a career dedicated to understanding mental health and supporting diverse communities.
Julide is actively involved in several research initiatives exploring the intersection of mental health, culture, and environment. As a research assistant in multiple labs across several projects, she contributes to literature reviews, data analysis, recruitment, and project coordination, often helping lead teams of fellow research assistants. Her work in the Development, Ecopsychology, and Wellness Lab includes the “Clinical Geography” project, which examines how natural environments influence mental health and well-being. This research explores how access to nature and connection to the environment can affect psychological symptoms and overall quality of life. She and her colleagues recently presented their findings at a professional conference and continue contributing to the growing field of ecopsychology.
Beyond research, Julide is deeply committed to service and leadership. She works with the Resilience Center for Veterans and Families, where she conducts intake assessments and helps connect veterans transitioning to civilian life with essential resources such as education, employment, medical care, and family services. She also serves as president of the Psi Chi International Honor Society chapter at Teachers College, organizing workshops and presentations to support fellow students in their academic and professional development. Prior to graduate school, she graduated summa cum laude and worked as a registered behavior technician supporting children with autism. Looking ahead, Julide plans to pursue a PhD in clinical psychology, continuing her work at the intersection of research, global mental health, and culturally responsive care.
• Registered Behavior Technician
• Teachers College, Columbia University Master's degree, Clinical Psychology (Psychology in Education)
• University of North Florida Bachelor's degree, Psychology, English, Literature, Music
• Yeditepe University Bachelor's degree, Double Major: Psychology and English Language and Literature
• Summa Cum Laude
• Nominated for Provost Excellence Grant Award at Teachers College
• Columbia University
• Psi Chi International Honor Society
• Hear Your Song
What do you attribute your success to?
I would attribute my success to dedication, perseverance, hard work, and the support of my friends and family. Even when I faced challenges like not really being accepted sometimes for my background, the language I speak, my religious background, or cultural backgrounds, I didn't let that stop me. I only let it motivate me even more to kind of show the opposite. I've learned that even if things aren't working out the way you would like them to, somehow, eventually, everything falls into its place naturally and the way it was meant to be, so I never give up.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I've received is that even if things aren't working out the way you would like them to, somehow, eventually, everything falls into its place naturally and the way it was meant to be, so to never really give up. This advice has helped me stay motivated and persistent throughout my journey, especially during challenging times.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would like to say that it is a long journey, but it's very rewarding, and persevering through it will definitely allow you to overcome any challenge that you face. Your hard work won't be for nothing. It will always turn out to be appreciated. If I were to be featured in Influential Woman, it would be to hopefully inspire young women in the field who are maybe not too sure, or they're kind of holding themselves back. I would like them to pursue their dreams.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in my field is not really being accepted sometimes for my background, the language I speak, my religious background, or cultural backgrounds. However, I didn't let that stop me - I only let it motivate me even more to kind of show the opposite. In terms of opportunities, there are research assistantships, research coordinator positions, and psychometrist positions available in the master's program. After that comes the PhD position, where we can become clinical psychologists and work with clients. There's definitely a lot of progression in the field with lots of area for growth.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me are being respectful and being kind to everybody I meet, no matter where they come from or who they are. I try to uphold my cultural values in America, and I focus on making connections as much as possible with people. These values guide both my professional work and my personal interactions.