Hi! My name is Edward “Eddie” Castillo (Col ’18). While at UVA, I was involved in multiple Latino/Hispanic organizations that shaped me in many ways. Like most students, I came into UVA believing I wanted to be one thing when, in actuality, I ended up becoming another thing. About halfway through my time at UVA, my dream occupation changed – I decided I wanted to become an immigration attorney. To accomplish this goal, I attended the Campbell University School of Law in Raleigh, North Carolina. While it was not an easy journey, I am pleased to say I am a licensed attorney working in immigration, particularly business immigration. I spend my days helping employers with their immigration matters, with the goal of obtaining work visas for their employees. When I am not working, I love spending time with my little brother and my dogs, a labradoodle and a labradoodle/German Shepard mix named Goober and Luna, rooting for Washington sports teams, and trying out new breweries.
What inspired you to pursue your current career path, and how did your background or personal experiences influence your journey?
My inspiration to pursue a career in law originates from both being from a family of immigrants and from my experiences while at UVA. Specifically, I was involved in the Latino Student Alliance, DREAMers on Grounds, PMP, and PLUMAS. These groups made a direct impact not only on the Hispanic community within UVA, but also around the greater Charlottesville area. Aside from these efforts, what stuck with me the most was the “Know Your Rights” presentations both DREAMers on Grounds and local attorneys provided to the surrounding undocumented community. Seeing what we could do as students but being limited by not having a law degree directly motivated me to want to be able to provide more to our community.
What does being part of the Hispanic/Latine community mean to you, and how has it influenced your sense of identity or purpose?
Being part of the Hispanic/Latino community means being part of a village of support and having a responsibility to pay it forward. We do not make up a large percentage in many professions, so when our community is present, no matter how small, do what you can to build on it. I could not be where I am nor who I am without the experiences and lifelong friends I have made within our communities in space where we are not very visible. Now I strive to contribute back to these groups to continue paying it forward and hoping the help and support I once had can be felt for future members.
Who or what has been a major source of inspiration or mentorship for you, and why?
My mother has been my biggest inspiration. My mother was an early teen mom and did everything she could to provide me with everything I needed to become the person I am today. Her perseverance and dedication to being a wonderful mother, finishing school, and supporting our family while my stepfather was deployed overseas has always kept me motivated. Seeing her take on every challenge she faced head on, from raising a child while simultaneously being a child to becoming a homeschool teacher for my brother, has instilled values within me that keep me motivated and dedicated to overcoming any challenges I encounter.
How have you built and maintained meaningful connections within your professional or community networks?
The old cliche of building meaningful connections. They are cliches for a reason – that being there tends to be some truth. Meaningful connections within the profession are crucial. Through meaningful connections you may be someone’s first in mind person/candidate. Whether it be through reaching for the same appetizer at a networking event or by asking a professional on a company’s website out to coffee, make all your conversations intentional. You never know what similarities you may find in another that make these connections go beyond occasional conversations – grow these relationships into mentorships and friendships by asking for help, advice, and staying involved in each others’ lives. From there, follow up and keep growing your relationships with these new colleagues. Get to know them and what they are about. Beyond coffee or lunch, invite them to events that you both share an interest in. Most importantly, always be kind, you never know who could be the next person throwing your name out for a new opportunity.
What advice would you offer to young Hispanic/Latine UVA students or early-career professionals who aspire to follow a similar path?
Never give up. No’s and closed doors can be discouraging, but it’s important to remember the only person who drives your future is yourself. Take time to process it – a rejection, a denial, or an email stating “Thank you for your interest. Unfortunately…” – and keep at it. All it takes is one opportunity. As soon as someone gives you that opportunity, work harder than you have ever before and show all the naysayers what they missed out on.