Meet the First-Generation Student Who Overcame 'Imposter Syndrome' and Embraced the 'Data Revolution'

Although Rolando Castillo was admitted to UNT Dallas on a full-ride scholarship after finishing seventh in his class at Molina High School in Dallas’ Oak Cliff neighborhood, he faced real uncertainly that is common among first-generation college students. “I had ‘Imposter Syndrome,” Castillo said. “I had doubts in my head.”

Knowing he would likely be the first in his immediate family to graduate from college, the pressure was on. His parents always encouraged college, and he wanted to make them proud. But navigating the higher education journey, with so many unknowns, presented new challenges. “Financial aid, what does that even mean?” Castillo asked, as he recalled his initial conversations with the university about grants, loans and scholarships.

Not to mention the more difficult coursework and starting college during the pandemic in the Fall 2020 semester. “I didn’t have anyone to lean on, until TBE,” he said. TBE stands for Trailblazer Elite, a program designed specifically to support first-generation college students every step of the way – from admission to graduation – and everything in between. It offers mentorship, tailored programs, teamwork exercises, and leadership opportunities.

“TBE really helped me. I’m so grateful. If not, I wouldn’t be who I am now,” Castillo said.

For three years, Castillo took all online classes. For his senior year, he decided he needed the on-campus experience. But there were still hurdles to overcome. “I needed to get comfortable in a professional environment. I was forced to adapt,” he remembers. “Knowing people are there to help is invaluable.”

As he bonded with classmates and other TBE scholars, Castillo came out of his shell. “I didn’t have a connection to people during COVID, (and the following years),” he said. New friendships on campus proved to be more important than he expected – and life changing.

Especially an event called the “IGNITE Leadership Retreat.” "It was amazing. I connected with people I had never talked to,” Castillo boasted with pride. “I became more outgoing, learned a lot about nature, and worked as part of a team.”

As he looks ahead to a full-time professional opportunity after graduation, teamwork will be an essential requirement of any employer. Castillo says his strengths are an analytical mindset and problem-solving skills. “I want to keep learning and growing and build up the next generation,” he said.

During his four years at UNT Dallas, Castillo has benefited from the value of internships; he has held them at the university Dept. of Strategic Sourcing and Division of Advancement, as well as the Dallas Dept. of Aviation and the nonprofit Services of Hope, gaining valuable hands-on experience, while networking with people in his area of interest: data analytics.

That specialty is a relatively new development, as Castillo recently added a business analytics minor to his general business major, pushing his graduation from May to December. The change is an example of the passion, dedication and instincts that will help direct Castillo’s career. The modern workplace is evolving faster than ever, and he will need to be fluid and flexible to succeed.

Castillo credits his parents, siblings and the Trailblazer Elite team of Dr. Sabrina Hodge, Dr. Kimberly Riddick, T.J. Vaughns, Kenne Johnson and Cici Santos for keeping him motivated during times of hardship. “Each of them has helped shape me into who I am today, and I am incredibly thankful for them,” he said.

As he prepares to cross the commencement stage on Dec. 17 and earn his diploma, Castillo is grateful and thankful for his UNT Dallas experience. “I wanted to stay close to home and was intrigued by the fact that UNTD is the only public 4-year university in Dallas,” Castillo said. “I am glad that I chose UNTD because it has enabled me to connect with other first-gen students and incredible faculty who sincerely care about students. I am excited to see the evolution of this young campus and will forever carry the Trailblazer spirit.”