As Rose Castillo crossed the stage at Lander University’s commencement ceremony on May 6, she carried with her more than a degree. She carried a story of growth and discovery that began in Beaufort and flourished in Greenwood.
Castillo earned a bachelor’s degree in criminology, complemented by minors in chemistry and forensic science -- an academic combination that reflects her curiosity and her career ambitions. Drawn to the field of crime scene investigation, she chose Lander for its Honors College and study abroad opportunities, both of which helped shape her college experience in meaningful ways.
“Commencement represents having my hard work and dedication honored and celebrated in one event,” Castillo said. “It’s a milestone signifying another chapter of my education closing, while the door opens to furthering my education even more and pursuing the career I wish to have.”
Always Moving Forward
That sense of forward momentum did not happen by chance. Castillo immersed herself in campus life, taking on a wide range of leadership roles that pushed her beyond her comfort zone. She served as a LINK Peer Leader, academic coach and peer tutor, while also leading as president of the True Crime Club and serving as social event chair for the Honors College Leadership Council.
Through these experiences, she honed skills that extend far beyond the classroom. “These opportunities allowed me to practice public speaking, build relationships and thrive not only as a student, but as an individual navigating self-discovery,” she said.
Castillo earned President’s and Dean’s List honors and was awarded the Honor College Medal and Honors Pin at commencement. She also was the recipient of the Carson Criminology Discipline Award and the Tannenbaum Study Abroad award for her studies at the University of Winchester.
Developing Confidence for the Future
Like many students, Castillo encountered challenges along the way, particularly the struggle to maintain motivation during demanding stretches of the semester. She said she met those moments with resilience by reminding herself of her long-term goals and balancing academic responsibilities with personal well-being.
Perhaps most transformative, she said, is the confidence she gained during her time at Lander.
“Lander helped me discover a self-confidence in myself that I didn’t know as a freshman,” Castillo said. “It also helped me realize where and how my priorities and interests are best cultivated in a meaningful way.”
After graduation, Castillo plans to continue her journey at Lander by pursuing a master’s degree in emergency management while serving as a graduate teaching assistant for the LINK program. “My dream job would be working as a forensic crime scene technician,” she said.
“I wanted to pursue forensic science since middle school when I went to a girls’ STEM camp and learned about genetics,” she said. “I pursued my interest in genetics further in high school and thought that forensic science would be a really interesting way to go down that path. I ended up studying criminology as well so that I could better understand the court proceedings and law aspect of the career, as well as learning why people may commit crimes.”
The Road Ahead
Castillo credits Lander with preparing her for this next step by connecting her with mentors, building her professional skills and offering opportunities to gain real-world experience.
As she looks ahead, Castillo encourages future Bearcats to make the most of their college years.
“Take advantage of all that the University has to offer and immerse yourself in student life as much as possible,” she said. “That is where most of your enjoyable memories and friendships will come from. Do everything that you have the opportunity to do.”