Paola was born in the Dominican Republic and immigrated to the United States (Bronx) when she was 8 years old. Paola confronted many challenges in the public school system with learning English as a second language and the lack of resources. Paola was fortunate to have her mother as a great support system and some staff members and teachers who always challenged and encouraged her do and be her best. On her second year in High School was when she realized that she wanted to work supporting students, as she saw the impact educators had on her education.
Paola attended SUNY New Paltz for undergraduate school where she earned her Bachelor’ degree in Psychology. Soon after she attended Brooklyn College where she earned her Master’s degree in School Counseling.
Prior to Haven Paola worked on a 9-month project in the Dominican Republic where she was able to implement counseling standards into the private and public school system. She also worked for two years in an elementary school in the South Bronx, where she was able to build a bridge between the school and the community and earn experience working directly with students, families and teachers.
