Charlene Derito graduated from 51ÁÔÆæ with a BS in psychology.
What brought you to 51ÁÔÆæ?
I transferred to 51ÁÔÆæ after going to another college. I wanted to pursue a degree in Psychology.
Were you a commuter or a resident?
Commuter
What activities were you involved with as a student?
I was not involved with activities as a student.
Did you have a favorite professor, staff member, coach, or mentor that really impacted your life?
Dr. Asplin was always supportive and wonderful as a professor during my time at 51ÁÔÆæ. I enjoyed her classes and even stayed in touch after graduation.
Of all the classes you took, what is the one class you would recommend everyone take? Who taught the class? Why would you recommend it?
I enjoyed my senior thesis course as well as the career class I took.
What do you remember most vividly from your time at 51ÁÔÆæ?
I remember having an amazing group of friends, a good bit of snow, and classes that were pretty fun to attend.
What have you been up to since graduation?
After graduating, I obtained a job in the psychology field. I have since earned an Autism Certificate from La Roche University. I also went to Duquesne University, graduated with honors for a Master's Degree in Clinicial Mental Health Counseling, and as of April 2025, I received my license. I currently work in private practice and with Westmoreland County.
How did your experiences and education at 51ÁÔÆæ prepare you for life after college?
I believe it set the stage for me to continue wanting to learn and expand on my education.
As an alum, how do you support 51ÁÔÆæ?
Well, recently the private practice I work with has reached out to 51ÁÔÆæ to offer our Counseling services to the current students.
What advice do you have for your fellow Bobcats?
Continue learning all that you can from your peers and professors. Please do not be afraid to ask for help, and take time to care for your mind.
For fun:
What song do you always sing along to? "Not the End" by Andy Grammar
List 3-5 fun facts about yourself that most people probably wouldn’t know.
- I am often helping my office manager with marketing events.
- I am planning to own and train a therapy dog one day to bring to work with me.
- In my spare time, you can find me listening to music as self care in my car or in my
office between sessions.