Daniela Victoria Castro

• What does being a First-Generation College Graduate mean to you?

Being a first generation college graduate means that my journey has been defined by three tenets: focus, commitment, and resilience. Throughout my college career, I did not have a mentor to guide me and struggled in my initial transition from high school. I had to learn on my own through trial and error what gaining an undergraduate education entailed. Over the last four years, I have learned that it is critical to place faith and trust in myself, learn from my mistakes, and learn from others. Luckily, I managed to meet amazing friends and professors along the way that helped me stay focused on my goals.

• What is your proudest moment from your time at UCSD?

My proudest moment at UCSD has been co-founding the student organization Music & Memory with one of my closest friends. I am so proud to be part of an organization that fosters an inclusive community for college students of all majors and backgrounds to join. Our organization brings individualized music into the lives of the elderly with a wide range of cognitive and physical challenges through the use of iPods and student-led concerts. We aim to use music therapy to aid in the memory recollection process and improve overall quality of life. Over the last two years, we have established cross-generational bonds with residents at the care center with which we’ve partnered; being able to have a positive impact on the lives of the residents and bringing smiles to their faces has been most rewarding.

• Who are the family members, friends or loved ones who have been most influential throughout your college journey? Are there any words of gratitude you would like to share with them?

Over the course of my college journey and my entire life, my parents have been my greatest champions. They have always shown me unconditional love and have never stopped believing in me - even when I had my doubts. Apart from my family, my friends have been by my side through the good and not-so-good times. I am eternally grateful for their friendship and support. They always hype me up, regardless of the circumstances. Without my family and amazing group of friends, I would have never made it this far.

• What do you plan or hope to do after graduating?

After graduating, I plan to remain at UCSD and pursue an M.S. in biochemistry & biophysics. Then, I plan on either applying to medical schools or pursue an MD/PhD as I have recently been enjoying research tremendously. I’m excited to see where the next couple years take me!

Campus Affiliations

Campus Involvement

• Co-President, Music & Memory at UCSD

• Member, American Medical Student Association

• Swim Instructor, UCSD Recreation