Home | Fraeya Pithawalla

Helping teens succeed without sacrificing their mental well-being

MISSION

Help teens understand stress, protect their well-being, and prevent burnout.

EVENTS

Join workshops, student discussions, and movement-based wellness sessions.

RESOURCES

Explore simple tools, research, and tips for managing academic and social stress.

GET INVOLVED

Share your story, join a survey, volunteer, or collaborate with us.

About Me

My name is Fraeya Pithawala

I’m a High School Senior at Cosby High School, VA interested in medicine, neuroscience, psychology, leadership, and the connection between mental and physical health.

Throughout high school, I have explored these interests through the Medical Awareness Club, Health Occupations Students of America, medical shadowing, neuroscience and psychology-related programs, and pre-medical coursework. I have also been involved in Student Council, Beta Club, Sea Club, Asian Culture Club, Yearbook, and other school organizations.

Outside academics, dance has been an important part of my life since I was three years old.

That combination of health science and movement inspired me to think more deeply about something many teenagers experience every day: stress.

I understand what it feels like to balance academics, extracurriculars, friendships, responsibilities, and personal expectations.

Brain Before Burnout grew from my desire to understand where unhealthy pressure begins and how teenagers can better manage it.

Research

Under the guidance of Dr. Kristina Lilova, Professor at Arizona State University, I am researching:

How effective are nanoparticle-based drug delivery systems at reducing symptoms of depression compared to traditional antidepressants?

This project explores whether nanotechnology can improve how antidepressant medications are delivered, with the potential for more targeted treatment and fewer side effects.

Leadership

Medical Awareness Club - Secretary

Plan monthly meetings, develop activities, take notes during officer meetings, manage attendance forms, and keep track of member participation. This role allows me to combine leadership with my interest in medicine and health.

Cornhole Club - President

Plan club meetings, photograph activities, manage the club’s Instagram account, and create visual graphics and social media content.

Asian Culture Club - Vice President

As Vice President, I help develop meeting ideas centered around different cultures and help organize and set up club activities.

Yearbook - Editor-in-chief

Currently serve as Editor-in-Chief, after previously working as a Junior Editor and Copy Editor. Work with editorial board, staff, and advisor, make design decisions, create page layouts, writing, and photography.