Introduction from New SPSPotlight Co-Editor Milena Dasilva-Braga

Hello, everyone! My name is Milena Braga (pronounced like Selena but with an M) and it's such a privilege to join the SPSPotlight team as co-editor. I'm thrilled to work alongside this wonderful team. I was able to attend the SPSP Annual Convention in San Diego back in February of this year and have since gotten involved with SPSP's committees, as there are so many lovely opportunities offered to make a difference and to grow professionally. I'd love to share a little bit about myself with you all.

My background is in psychology and mental health. I obtained my B.S. in Psychology at the Harriet L. Wilkes Honors College of Florida Atlantic University in 2019 and my M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from William James College in 2021. Currently, I'm wrapping up my second year of a Counseling Psychology PhD program at Northeastern University. My research interests revolve around how to promote belonging, specifically in underserved students pursuing degrees in higher education. Along these same lines, much of my clinical experience has been in college counseling centers or working with college-aged students. I'm passionate about creating equitable academic opportunities, no matter what background a student comes from. I have also taught a few lectures on the implications of DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) status for college students in the United States, and greatly enjoy providing counselors with information and resources about how we can continue to be more inclusive.

It is a great joy to be part of this team. I know there's a lot I can learn from the other members and look forward to contributing the knowledge I've acquired in my academic and professional career to SPSPotlight.