Mildrett Castro ’24 named Outstanding Islander Graduate for the College of Nursing and Health Sciences
CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas — Deep in the rainforest of Costa Rica you’ll find many things — the greenest of trees, waterfalls, wildlife. And sometimes, you’ll find yourself. For Mildrett Castro ’24, the Summer 2024 Outstanding Islander Graduate for the College of Nursing and Health Sciences at Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi, Costa Rica is where she found confidence in her career path.
“I took part in the Costa Rica community health study abroad program which allowed me to fulfill my clinical hours for graduation,” Castro said. “As a native Spanish speaker, I applied my nursing skills and learned a new culture. It was a one-of-a-kind experience.”
Castro grew up in Houston, where she established the strong work ethic that continues to drive her today. Her dedication in high school eventually earned her a series of scholarships, which led her to Island University in 2016.
“As a first-generation, Mexican immigrant, I understood that my path was a bit different than some of my classmates, but I always felt immense support from my parents,” she said.
However, a natural disaster eventually brought her back to Houston.
“In 2017, Hurricane Harvey hit Houston two weeks before the fall semester started. At that time, I was eager to return to Corpus Christi, but my plans quickly came crumbling down,” Castro said. “Post-hurricane, I made the tough decision to not return for the semester as my house had endured severe damage, and returning would have put financial stress on my family.”
After her flooded home was repaired, Castro set her sights on returning to TAMU-CC. However, she soon faced an even greater challenge, one that would profoundly shape the course of her life.
“My mother was diagnosed with cancer, and I became her primary caregiver,” Castro recalled. “She became my first patient and my biggest cheerleader. She encouraged me to keep pushing toward my nursing degree.”
Castro’s mother passed away in spring 2021. She says having the support of friends, family, and faculty kept her going in those times it felt like the finish line was getting further and further away. She said she is also grateful for the financial support she received via scholarships, including the HRSDA Scholarship, the Mary Jane Hamilton Founding Dean’s Endowed Scholarship in Nursing, the John and Augusta Doan Endowed Scholarship, the Coca-Cola Foundation Scholarships for Hispanic Nursing Students, and the Rising Scholar Contestant Scholarship.
At the Summer 2024 Commencement Ceremony scheduled for Saturday, Aug. 10, Castro will finally earn her Bachelor of Science in Nursing. Post-graduation, she plans to become an oncology or women’s service nurse.
“After many years at TAMU-CC, I’ve grown immensely and persevered into the person I am today,” Castro said. “A shy girl has grown into a confident woman. I now understand that my path is unique and even through challenges, I am able to adapt.”
