Dr. Herbozo is a Clinical Psychologist and an Associate Professor. She is a proud, bilingual Latina of Peruvian heritage.

“My mentors were instrumental in my growth as an undergraduate student and beyond. During my undergraduate training at the University of Central Florida, two pivotal experiences paved the way for me to become a clinical psychologist. The first was mentorship from a faculty mentor and her doctoral student in my pursuit of doctoral training. The second was seeing two Latinas in my university’s Clinical Psychology doctoral program - representation matters. This career path may initially seem like a daunting endeavor but with persistence and support, you will accomplish your goals. PLANS is here to help you navigate this rewarding path.”

Dr. Asvat is a Clinical Psychologist and an Assistant Professor. She is bicultural Indian/Latina, bilingual, and a proud Panameña.

“Clinical Psychology is an infinitely rewarding field to engage with personally and professionally. The doctoral training required a significant investment of time and resources and connecting with supportive mentors was essential to my success. If you have passion for this field, the road is worth traveling. I hope PLANS will be a partner in your journey.”

Dr. Isabel C. Quiñones is a Clinical Psychologist. She is proud to be a bilingual, first-generation student and Venezuelan.

“Going into undergrad as a pre-med student, I had very little knowledge about the field of Clinical Psychology. However, after taking my first psychology course during sophomore year, I instantly found my passion for psychology and more importantly for helping others. The following years I worked really hard to find information about what a career in Clinical Psychology would look like and how I could accomplish my goals. I wish I had mentors like those in PLANS along the way who I could relate to on a personal and professional level. Now, I love what I study and the amazing people I get to work with and I hope PLANS can help you reach your goals as well.”

Melanie Grad-Freilich is a doctoral student pursuing a Ph.D. in Clinical and Developmental Psychology at the University of Pittsburgh, focusing on interpersonal adversity and psychopathology in adolescence.  She is proud to be a bilingual Latina with family from Argentina.

“It took a village to get me into grad school - and I will forever be grateful to my mentors, friends and family who helped me along the way. I would not be where I am without them! Older graduate students in particular gave me so much support and guidance, and I am so excited to be a part of the PLANS team and pay this mentorship forward to future students interested in applying to Clinical and Counseling Psychology doctoral programs.”

Paula Arellano (she/her/ella) is a doctoral student pursuing a Psy.D. in Clinical Psychology at Nova Southeastern University, focusing on geropsychology and rehabilitation psychology. She is a proud Venezuelan-American and first-generation college student.

“No words can fully express my gratitude for my parents’ sacrifices and unwavering support throughout my journey to pursue higher education. Without their encouragement, and the invaluable guidance I received from graduate students during my undergraduate years, I would not be where I am today. It is my hope to pay this forward by offering support and mentorship to future students interested in applying to Clinical and Counseling Psychology doctoral programs.”

Laura Rosado Philippi is a recent graduate of Fordham University, where she earned her degree in Psychology and Anthropology and developed a strong interest in the intersections of mental health, education, public service, and advocacy. Born and raised in Puerto Rico, Laura’s experiences have shaped her commitment to expanding access to resources and opportunities for Latino communities. She is currently a 2026–2027 Fulbright U.S. Student English Teaching Assistant in Spain and serves as PLANS’ Social Media Manager.

“Being part of PLANS has allowed me to grow both personally and professionally while learning so much from the people around me. It has deepened my understanding of the importance of mentorship, community, and representation in psychology, and has shown me how meaningful it can be to create spaces where Latino students feel supported and encouraged. I’m incredibly grateful to have grown with PLANS and to now continue that work as Social Media Manager.”

Darlene Campos (she/her/ella) is currently a second-year Masters student in Counseling Psychology at Texas Woman’s University. She has plans to pursue a doctoral degree in the rear future. Daniela is a proud first-generation Salvadoran immigrant.

“Ever since I was little growing up in El Salvador, I witnessed the pain caused by injustices and violence in my community. As I got older, I became curious about why the personal battles of my family and other Latine immigrants were often dismissed or labeled as weaknesses. These experiences ignited my passion for studying psychology and motivated me to break down the barriers between mental health and the Latine community through my education and advocacy. As a PLANS student member, I was able to gain meaningful connections with mentors, faculty and peers. I also feel empowered to pursue my passions. As a part of the social media team, I hope to continue PLANS’ impact and reach other students who are also passionate about Latine mental health.”

Shabelle Paulino (she/her/ella) is a doctoral student pursuing a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology at the University of Arizona. Her research focuses on psychosocial oncology, cancer survivorship, and disparities in cancer care, particularly among Hispanic/Latino patients and survivors. Her long-term goal is to provide bilingual psycho-oncology services and conduct research that improves care for Hispanic/Latino patients and families. Shabelle is a Dominican American, bilingual in English and Spanish, and a first-generation college graduate raised in Washington Heights, New York.

“Being the first in my family to graduate from college meant that I often learned by asking other people how things worked. I was lucky to find mentors who never made me feel like my questions were too small or that I was asking too much. My PLANS mentor, Yasmin Asvat, PhD, was one of those people. She helped me prepare for graduate school, but more importantly, she helped me believe I belonged there. I am grateful to be back with PLANS and to have the chance to support a community that once supported me.”