Student Ambassador: Rose Andrades, BS, MA

Hello! I am Rose Andrades, a first-generation 3rd year advanced standing student at William James College, currently pursuing a PsyD in Clinical Psychology with an emphasis in Latino Mental Health. I am from Puerto Rico but have spent several years in Massachusetts and consider it home.  My academic journey began with a BS in Criminal Justice and Psychology from UMass Lowell, followed by a master’s degree from WJC in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, concentrating on forensic and correctional counseling. William James College’s diverse concentrations and strong emphasis on clinical experience drew me to further my education here.

As a Latina who is fluent in both Spanish and English, I am interested in working in forensic settings, where I am passionate about addressing the mental health needs of underrepresented ethnic and racial minorities within the correctional system. I am also a recipient of the Serving the Mental Health Needs of the Underserved Scholarship. I am a fellow of the HRSA-SDS funded Leaders in Diversity and Resilience Fellowship Program for the Clinical Mental Health Counseling MA. I am currently a part of the Juvenile Justice Research Policy Lab where I have assisted other students with generating ideas for their dissertations and assist in current research projects.

I highly encourage students to not be afraid to ask questions and request help if needed. Organization is the key to a successful first year. If able, attend the activities on campus since it provides a great opportunity for building a sense of community. Take some time in your week to engage in activities that do not involve school or practicum-related work! Remember that you are learning, and it is okay to feel as though you do not always know what you are doing or like you don’t belong (you will learn about imposter syndrome if you have not already). When experiencing imposter syndrome, I encourage you to remember this quote by Jose Antonio Tijerino, president and CEO of the Hispanic Heritage Foundation: “You are not lucky to be here. The world needs your perspective. They are lucky to have you.”