Get to Know Forman Scholar Richard Nichols!

With the goal of eventually becoming a developmental therapist, Richard Nichols is beginning his journey in higher education at Montclair State University in Montclair, New Jersey, where he will study psychology and participate in the school’s honors program. Learn more about Richard and the plans he has for his college career.

Tell us more about your plans for becoming a therapist.

My current hope is to focus my psychology studies on adolescent and teenage mental health. I want to work in homes with children who aren’t meeting normal milestones and help them lead fulfilling lives. If that doesn’t work out, I’d love to start a nonprofit focused on mental health advocacy. No matter what my future professional pursuits may be, my plan is to make a difference in the world one person at a time, especially those in the next generation. Without educating and engaging the next generation, the world is bound to collapse – literally and figuratively.

What is your favorite memory from your time in high school?

Our performances of Mean Girls during my junior year come to mind. The whole cast and crew worked extremely hard to make the production as professional as possible, and the final product turned out great. That’s actually one of the times I felt most proud of myself because theatre was extremely far outside of my comfort zone, and I pushed myself to try something new and grow a little bit as a person. And I think I’m better off because of it.

How do you plan to make the most of your college experience? 

In college, I plan on navigating campus the same way I navigated high school: start out by making connections and then join clubs that spike my interest. College has a more diverse set of organizations, so I’ll be excited to step out of my comfort zone again and try a variety of things. I’m hoping to gain some life-long friendships in the process. 

What does the pursuit of higher education mean to you?

The college experience is so important to me because it’s a time when most people are finding themselves. It’s the perfect opportunity and space to grow into the person you want to be. And there’s always room to learn something new.

How has the Forman Acton Foundation contributed to your growth as a person and as a student?

The Foundation has gotten me extremely prepared for and excited about the college experience. I genuinely believe that serving on the Youth Board and being selected as a Scholar has changed the trajectory of my life because it opened my eyes to new perspectives and encouraged me to consider new options for my continuing education. I’ve made so many connections through my involvement with the Foundation, and I feel like, together, we’ve created a safe space for growth and development that will continue for many years to come.