Maria Pia Del Castillo '06 - March 2019

Since graduating from the University of Miami in 2010 with a major in Psychology (Pre-Med) and minors in Spanish and Chemistry, I moved to Munich, Germany to work at a hospital specializing in Neurology and Orthopedics. I returned to Miami to pursue my passion of working with kids, beginning by working at a school for children on the Autism Spectrum and then obtaining my Psy.D. in Clinical Psychology at Nova Southeastern University. As part of my doctoral training, I completed my internship at AHRC, New York City: a Medicaid funded organization specializing in providing services (such as housing, medical treatment, psychological services, etc.) to people with intellectual and other developmental disabilities. I am currently completing my post-doctoral residency with Pediatric Psychology Associates in Miami, focusing on psycho-educational and neuro-psychological evaluations. Any students or alumni interested in a career in Psychology, feel free to contact me at p.delcastillo@mailppa.com for advice!

5. Please share one of your favorite moments, experiences, or memories from your time at Miami Country Day.

My favorite memories from my time at Country Day extend from Spartan sporting events to COEP, to meeting people who to this day are my best friends and have become family. I will always cherish those experiences that we shared together.

6.What is one experience from MCDS that you’ve taken with you and have referred back to as a resource or guide in your adult life?

MCDS taught me that hard work, perseverance, kindness, and being well rounded are essential to success. As I have gone through life, I have seen first-hand how that combination has opened doors for me, both professionally and personally. With determination, humility, and a positive attitude, anything is possible.

7. What advice would you offer future MCDS alumni?