Her Story
About Frida
Frida Herrera serves as an Academic Advisor at Pittsburg State University, a position she began in May 2026 after earning her Master’s degree in School Counseling Psychology from the university. She holds a B.A. in Psychology from the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM), where she graduated in 2017. With approximately nine years of experience in education and counseling, Herrera began her career as a kindergarten teacher and later worked as a clinical psychologist before transitioning into higher education. Her diverse professional background has given her a well-rounded perspective on student development, counseling, academic success, and educational support. Herrera specializes in supporting first-generation, minorities, and international students, drawing from her own experiences navigating higher education as a first-generation student, learning English through an intensive language program, and balancing motherhood with her academic pursuits. At Pittsburg State University, she has also served as a Graduate Teaching Assistant, facilitating career development workshops, mock interviews, and career fairs. Her commitment to leadership and student advocacy is reflected in her involvement with Phi Kappa Phi, the American School Counselor Association, the Kansas School Counselor Association, NACADA, and Pittsburg Area Young Professionals, as well as her service on the board of the Family and Resource Center. Her accomplishments include receiving the Outstanding Graduate Student Award, WOW Award, Graduate Service Award, and recognition as an Outstanding International Student. Beyond her academic and professional responsibilities, Herrera is deeply committed to strengthening cultural connections and creating opportunities for students and the broader community. She founded the Hispanic Music Festival alongside her husband, an initiative designed to celebrate Hispanic culture, connect communities, and provide meaningful resources and opportunities in the area. She credits her success to self-belief, discipline, perseverance, and the encouragement of her family, professors, and community. Through academic advising, counseling, mentorship, leadership, and cultural engagement, Herrera continues to champion inclusive environments where students, particularly those from underrepresented and international backgrounds, can feel supported, connected, and empowered to achieve their goals.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Frida
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to believing in myself, discipline and the people that support me, including my family, professors and community, I wouldn't be here without them.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
Believe in yourself and you will be capable of big things.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Take the first step. Sometimes we see the end line and where we want to be and we just keep thinking it would be nice to be there. Just do it and apply for it. Believe in yourself and be brave. Because once we know who we are and believe in ourselves, everything falls into place.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest challenge is getting resources that are needed for students. The opportunity is providing mental health and emotional support to students from kindergarten to college.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Loyalty, responsibility, helping others, doing my best, and always doing more than you're supposed to do.
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