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Portrait of Esmeralda Hernandez-Polanco

Honor Society® member

Esmeralda Hernandez-Polanco

  • Doctorate in Philosophy of Psychology with an emphasis in Trauma and Disaster Relief
  • Class of 2026
  • Florida

Member since January 2023

About

I am a current doctorate student in the field of Psychology. I worked as a Mental Health Therapist for 6 years and a Mental Health Rehab Specialist for 2 years. I taught Bachelor level courses for 4 quarters at a tribal college. I have worked independently as a tutor and I am currently working in administration for a Law firm. I have specialized in trauma care and I am Trauma Focused - Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Certified. I am Mexican-American and bilingual in English and Spanish. I have been researching The Psychological and Physical Impacts of Trauma on the Immigrant and Refugee populations.

Education

  • Northcentral University

    Psychology

    2022 – Present

  • Pacific Oaks College

    Marital and Family Therapy with a Specialization in Latino/a Family Studies

    2007 – 2010

  • University of California, Santa Barbara

    Psychology

    2001 – 2005

Goals and interests

Career goal

Possible careers: Research, Administration, Policy Reformation, College Professor and I am open to opportunities and other suggestions.

Graduate school interests

I am currently in graduate school and I have completed my first year in my doctoral program.

Outside the classroom

I like to engage in educational activities with my children, reading, art, dancing and singing. I also love to travel when I am able to. We enjoy trying new foods from different cultures and learning about different cultures. I enjoy baking, cooking and making charcuterie boards for my daughters. My daughters and I like exploring new sites and museums together.

Languages

  • Spanish Fluent
  • English (US) Advanced

Additional information