Help me study Comedy for Mental Health at Harvard

Hello, I am David Edward Perry, a creative savant, comedian, and teaching artist from beautiful Birmingham, Alabama. I have been accepted into the prestigious Harvard Medical School for its inaugural Master of Science in Media, Medicine, and Health. This new master’s degree program is the first to offer a media arts-driven curriculum focusing on in-depth curriculum for storytellers, targeting methods for improving our communities' public health.

As you can imagine, this incredible Master's program has a hefty price tag. I have combined my savings, scholarship and loans, but it's not enough. I am asking for help covering the balance left of $60k. This charge includes housing, tuition, the Harvard + GoFundMe fees, and the expected cost of southern sweet tea withdrawals.

 

I have a long love for theater, media, and laughter. My entertainment career has run the gambit from Kenan and Kel to Shakespeare. One of my most substantial skill sets is using comedy as a bridge to address a topic. My heart is warm with laughter, and its been a saving grace for me at many of my lowest points.

My experience teaching comedy for wellness has proven to engage the comedic and creative spirit while spawning wellness by stimulating cognitive skills. Noticeable benefits include reduced stress levels, improved moods, and openness to change.

I am personally invested in mental health advocacy and awareness. My mental health recovery, creativity, and sense of humor are invaluable tools in my wheelhouse. Removing the negative stigma about mental health is a personal goal. I have been homeless at my lowest and untethered manic at my highest. Therapy, medical care, and hard work helped me with tools for embracing wellness. I feel privileged to teach others how to use their comedic voice to address mental health

I want the best education to help me be a better steward for change. Obtaining this master’s degree from Harvard Medical School will provide Vibranium strong skills in using storytelling as adequate health care, free from a cold, clinical approach. My goal is to build comedy arts for mental wellness programs in one city at a time, eventually reaching nationwide. Laughter is a key to bridging clarity and bringing calm during chaos. I appreciate your support in continuing my work using the power of laughter to make a difference in our communities.