They scurry around the department to classes, labs, and seminars. We see them present and read their reaction papers. Let’s take some time to learn about the people behind the PowerPoints. Graduate students are essential to the research enterprise and valued members of any department with a graduate program. The goal of the “meet the graduate students” series is to learn more about the experiences of these key players in the Department of Psychology at UNCG.
Let’s meet one of our (at the time of this article) first year students, Larissa Brito. Larissa began at UNCG in the Fall 2026 semester. She works with Dr. Danielle Weber and is enrolled in the clinical area Ph.D. program. Larissa earned her undergraduate degree from Sacred Heart University.
Path to and Experiences in Graduate School
What inspired you to begin graduate studies? Can you describe your research area and interests?
A strong personal curiosity drives me to want to know as much as possible about how couples function. I think this is due to differing views on romantic relationships, and its strong prevalence in our culture- so fascinating!! And that fuels my desire to want clinical training so that I can help others navigate stressors in romantic relationships. I’m particularly interested in factors that contribute to how stressors impact romantic couples, specifically how stressors impact conflict resolution, emotional regulation, and intimacy.
What is something you’ve accomplished at UNCG of which you’re especially proud?
I’ve only been here for a little over a month, so I guess getting into the program is an accomplishment and starting off the semester strong!
What advice would you give to students aspiring to attend graduate school?
You do not need to know everything about research before attending graduate school. What’s important is that you have a strong desire to learn new things and are passionate about your research interests. You can’t learn how to be enthusiastic about certain concepts, but everything else you can learn!
Fun Facts!
Where are you from?
Danbury, Connecticut
What do you like to do outside of school?
I love reading fictional books, cooking and baking, learning new languages, hanging out with friends, and going on adventures (particularly with my dog)!
What’s something most people don’t know about you?
I am Brazilian and can speak two languages fluently!
Could you share a favorite movie, book, or band that you would recommend to others?
Man’s Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl
