Veronica Castille BS’24 arrived at Willamette from Texas as a self-professed timid first-year student. As she gets ready to graduate, she’s leaving campus as so much more: a researcher, a founding member of the Women’s Triathlon team, a future occupational therapist, and an advocate.
“Going into Willamette I had a set idea of what my time here would look like and what I would become — as I’m heading out I realize my time here looked completely different, and for the better,” Veronica says. “I transformed into a stronger athlete, a more curious student, and a more self-confident and self-assured person.”
Veronica has gone far in her athletics journey. She quickly found her community in the first season of the Women’s Triathlon team, where she was chosen Scholar All-American and qualified for Chi Alpha Sigma, a national society that honors excellence in athletics and academics.
“I never thought I could play a sport at the collegiate level, let alone triathlon, so I am forever grateful to Coach Brett Franz for believing in me and bringing me to Willamette,” Veronica says. “Through the triathlon team, I met my incredible teammates, traveled to new places and raced alongside hardworking and inspiring women from across the country in national competitions.”
Veronica has also had a great run in her studies. She has had experience working on faculty research, and her senior thesis project examines the effect of vibration therapy on older adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus.
She has been inspired by professors she’s had in a variety of classes. She credits Aili Zheng, associate professor of German, with instilling in her a life-long love of learning. Veronica learned critical thinking skills from Associate Professor of Philosophy Anthony Coleman and the ability to ask hard questions from Professor of Exercise and Health Science Michael Lockard. She also says her advisor Professor of Exercise and Health Science Stasinos Stavrianeas “encouraged me to believe in myself and not let others’ doubt get in my way.”
All these mentors affected Veronica in different and profound ways. “Without them, I would not be the person I am today or the person I’ve yet to become,” Veronica says.
“Through the triathlon team, I met my incredible teammates, traveled to new places and raced alongside hardworking and inspiring women from across the country in national competitions.”
At Willamette, Veronica took her first ever anatomy and physiology courses. By the end of her three years (among her many accomplishments, Veronica will graduate a year early), she has developed a passion for the medical field. She has put that passion to work as a therapy aide at Salem Hospital and by volunteering for an adaptive swim program to work for children with special needs.
Veronica looks back on her college experience with deep gratitude. “I am so thankful for all the good that Willamette has brought into my life,” Veronica says. “I became the capable person I am today and met the best friends and mentors I have ever had. Go Bearcats!”
Read more featured graduate stories
Veronica is one of Willamette University’s 2024 featured graduates. To read more inspiring stories about our graduating students, click here. From student athletes and scientists to aspiring artists and attorneys, these students represent just a few of the incredible members of our Willamette community.
Please join us in congratulating the entire Willamette University class of 2024 for their accomplishments! Learn more about Willamette's 2024 commencement ceremonies.
Photo Credit: Mario Gallucci MFA'14
