Daniela Castro, a Molecular and Cellular Neuroscience major, is graduating in Spring 2026 with a story shaped by resilience, curiosity, and purpose. Born in Colombia and given the opportunity to pursue her education in the United States, Daniela has embraced every challenge and milestone along the way. She now looks ahead to medical school with the goal of becoming an anesthesiologist.
What inspired you to pursue medicine and major in Neuroscience?
When I was little, my brother experienced serious health complications that kept him in and out of the ICU in Colombia. Watching that unfold sparked my curiosity about how delicate and intricate the human body truly is. I wanted to understand what was happening and how physicians made decisions that could save a life. That desire to learn more about the human body ultimately led me to pursue medicine and major in neuroscience.
What experiences at Texas A&M strengthened your interest in healthcare?
Organic Chemistry and its lab experiences stand out. I especially enjoyed Organic Chemistry II with Dr. Martinez. His teaching style was phenomenal. He was supportive, clear, and helped us truly understand the material. The labs allowed me to see how the concepts we learned in lecture applied to real substances. I felt like a real scientist running experiments, analyzing results, and working alongside classmates who became great friends.
What was one of the biggest academic challenges you faced?
Physics was one of the most challenging courses I took. I had never taken that level of math before, so adjusting to the concepts was difficult. Recitations made a huge difference. The TA broke problems down step by step in a way that made them manageable. That experience taught me not to be afraid of hard subjects and to use the resources available to me.
How did your study habits evolve during college?
My first year, I did not fully understand how to study efficiently. I was putting in time but not always getting the results I wanted. During my second year, Dr. Martinez helped me realize which study methods worked best for me. Once I found my optimal study style, everything changed. I was able to grasp concepts more clearly and save time. Learning how to learn was one of the most valuable lessons I gained in college.
Who supported you along the way?
My parents made it possible for me to be here. I am incredibly grateful for the financial support and sacrifices they made so I could pursue my education. My brother has also been a constant source of encouragement, especially when I felt discouraged about a grade. My classmates helped me understand difficult material, and my friends and family reminded me to maintain balance. Whether it was studying together or taking a break at the gym or spending time with my cat Tiger, those moments kept me grounded.
What is a favorite memory from your time at Texas A&M?
One afternoon, I was walking to Sbisa and noticed a group of people with a large telescope pointed at the moon. They invited me to look through it, and I could see the moon so clearly on what felt like an ordinary Tuesday. It was such a simple but special moment that reminded me how many unexpected opportunities exist on campus.
What are your plans after graduation?
After graduation, I plan to return to Dallas for my gap year and work in a hospital while beginning the medical school application cycle. I hope to attend Texas A&M College of Medicine and eventually become an anesthesiologist. I am drawn to the precision, responsibility, and physiology involved in anesthesia and the opportunity to care for patients during critical moments.
What advice would you give future Biology and Neuroscience students?
Go to class. Hearing the material from your professor, seeing it on slides, and writing it down makes a difference. Learn your optimal study style as early as possible. If one method does not work, try something new. Use your labs and recitations to your advantage. At the same time, do not let school consume your entire life. Enjoy your college years. They go by quickly. I am so proud to be finishing my undergraduate degree in Molecular and Cellular Neuroscience. It truly feels like a gift.