Texas Border Business
By Veronica Salinas
McALLEN Texas – For Matthew Castillo, starting college felt like stepping into the unknown. However, thanks to South Texas College’s (STC) Valley Promise program, he found the guidance, support and confidence needed to begin building a future in one of today’s fastest growing industries.
The 18-year-old graduate of Weslaco East High School is pursuing an Associate of Applied Science in Cybersecurity at STC. After taking the Valley Promise Pledge, he has completed two semesters and says the program has made all the difference in helping him successfully transition from high school to college.
“The Valley Promise seemed like the most comprehensive way to get started in college,” he said. “I had so much support and it made the transition smoother.”
The Valley Promise is STC’s last-dollar initiative that helps eligible students earn an affordable education toward an associate degree by covering remaining tuition and mandatory fees after federal and state financial aid has been applied. Along with financial assistance, students receive personalized support and guidance designed to help them succeed throughout their college journey.
For Castillo, that support extended beyond financial assistance.
“If I went into this without the help of Valley Promise, I wouldn’t have understood anything,” he said. “The staff were always there to answer my questions and make sure I felt comfortable.”
Drawn to technology from an early age, Castillo knew he wanted to pursue a career where he could turn his passion into a profession.
“I’ve always been interested in technology and enjoyed working with computers,” he said. “Cybersecurity felt like the perfect career because it allows me to turn that passion into something meaningful.”
Castillo says one of the most rewarding parts of his college experience has been the opportunity to continually expand his knowledge.
“My favorite part of STC has been the opportunity to keep learning and building new skills,” he said. “Every class has helped me become more confident in my abilities.”
Like many first-time college students, Castilo faced challenges adjusting to college life.
“One of my biggest challenges was adjusting to college, especially attending classes in person,” he said. “Having the option to take online classes and knowing the Valley Promise staff was there to support me made the experience much easier.”
Throughout his journey, Castillo credits his father as his greatest source of encouragement.
“My dad has always been my biggest supporter,” he said. “He’s encouraged me through every challenge, especially during the times when I doubted myself, and that has motivated me to keep moving forward.”
Looking ahead, Castillo hopes to pursue a cybersecurity career outside the Rio Grande Valley, confident that the education and support he has received at STC have prepared him for success.
“My goal after graduation is to find a cybersecurity job away from the RGV,” he said. “With the confidence STC has given me, I know that will be possible, and I know I’ll do well.”
For students considering college, Castillo encourages them to take advantage of the opportunities available through Valley Promise and STC, reminding them that having the right support system can make all the difference in achieving their goals.
“Valley Promise gave me more than financial support, it gave me the confidence to succeed,” he said. “Knowing there were people invested in my success made all the difference, and I’m grateful for everything the program has done for me.”
For more information on STC’s Valley Promise program, visit southtexascollege.edu/promise/#overview.
