Izbeth Flores Aparicio

Motivation to pursue a graduate degree

I chose to study Clinical Mental Health Counseling after a life-changing counseling experience while adjusting to a new country and coping with homesickness and personal loss. This taught me the value of a safe, supportive environment and inspired me to help others through ethical, evidence-based care. I selected Florida State University because it emphasizes evidence-based counseling, trauma-informed care, and community involvement, which align with my goals. The faculty and supportive community at FSU provide the ideal environment for me to become a skilled counselor for diverse and underserved groups.

Importance and/or impact of research and work

My research as a Graduate Research Assistant at the Florida Center for Prevention Research (FCPR) focuses on prevention and program evaluation. I support projects through quantitative data analysis, database management, and manuscript preparation to assess the quality, accessibility, and effectiveness of prevention-based interventions. This approach helps identify risk and protective factors, strengthen evidence-based programs, and improve access for underserved populations. Ultimately, this work informs data-driven decisions that enhance prevention efforts and promote more equitable mental health outcomes.

Career aspirations

My career goal is to become a licensed clinical mental health counselor specializing in trauma-informed care, cognitive-behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, and EMDR. I aim to work with adolescents and young adults, particularly those from diverse and underserved backgrounds, to support resilience, healing, and healthy adjustment. In the long term, I plan to pursue doctoral training to contribute to research, education, and community-based mental health initiatives.

Advice for anyone considering graduate school

Reflect on your “why” and not be afraid to give yourself a chance to pursue it. While the journey can feel intimidating and involves balancing many responsibilities, you are not alone, and seeking mentorship and support early can make a meaningful difference. With perseverance, self-compassion, and a genuine passion for what you are doing, the process begins to align and feel purposeful.

Accomplishments during graduate career

I am proud to have contributed to and presented at multiple conference poster sessions, including national conferences such as the National Council on Family Relations, where I translated data into findings with real-world implications. Presenting this work was especially meaningful, as it reflected my academic growth, perseverance, and ability to communicate research to diverse audiences. These experiences reinforced my commitment to evidence-based practice and confirmed my desire to integrate research, prevention, and counseling in my career.