Bridging Gaps: Addressing PTSD and Mental Health Barriers Among Bosnian Immigrants in the U.S​.
Hello, My name is Ramila Odzakovic, and I am doing an undergraduate research study for the University Scholars Program at the University of Florida. This site delves into my current project about how language and cultural barriers impact PTSD diagnosis and access to mental health services for Bosnian immigrants in the U.S. My research aims to uncover these challenges and improve support for this community.
Get to Know Me
I am a third-year student majoring in Communication Sciences and Disorders, with a minor in Deaf and Hearing Sciences. Born in Jacksonville, FL, I proudly identify as a first-generation Bosnian-American. Currently, I serve as the vice- president of the Balkan Student Association, and was the previous president from 2023-2024. Additionally, I am on the executive board for the National Student Speech Language Hearing Association chapter at UF, where I hold the position of Director for the G. Paul Moore Symposium, a student-led initiative dedicated to honoring Dr. G. Paul Moore, a distinguished professor and renowned scholar in the field of Communication Disorders.
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My aspiration is to become a bilingual speech-language pathologist, with a focus on assisting individuals in underdeveloped communities. Throughout my time in the Bilingual Language Access and Outcomes Lab at UF, I have been determined to raise awareness about the healthcare disparities faced by underrepresented cultures. I am particularly interested in the senior Balkan immigrant population in the United States, as many seniors face significant language and cultural barriers. I am deeply honored and thrilled to be a part of the University Scholars Program, as it allows me to pursue my passion for research while making a meaningful difference in the lives of those within my community and beyond.