​​​As the oldest of four children in a Mexican American household with only one working parent, Teresa Castillo became the first in her family to attend university. While Teresa was attending high school, her father struggled with diabetes and her mother battled to overcome breast cancer. Teresa kept her focus, taking over her mother's responsibilities in the household while at the same time serving in student government and maintaining a high academic standing.

Today, Teresa is a sophomore at California State University Channel Islands double majoring in English and liberal studies and minoring in communications. She has tutored at various schools and is currently employed by the Hueneme School District as a paraprofessional working with special education students. Teresa maintains a 3.4 GPA while also balancing her busy work schedule. Her future goal is to become a journalist who inspires students through education.​