Faces of NLU: Dra. Isabel Castro

In celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, this week's Faces of NLU spotlight features Dra. Isabel Castro, Ed.D., Student Success Coach.

Dra. Isabel Castro recently completed her Ed.D. in Higher Education Leadership at NLU — a route she chose with intention. "I intentionally pursued an Ed.D. because I wanted to raise more awareness about this doctoral route," she says. "Many people hear the word 'doctorate' and only think of a Ph.D. A doctorate in education is a professional degree designed for educators who aspire to leadership roles in the field of education."

During her first year as a doctoral student, Dra. Castro was accepted into NLU's CLAVE Doctoral Fellowship Program — an experience she credits with transforming her path. "CLAVE provided me with wraparound services that helped me navigate my doctoral journey. It also provided me with mentors and a community of other doctoral students. These connections have proven to be invaluable, and I am grateful for all the support they provided."

Learn More About NLU's Ed.D. in Higher Education Leadership

Asked to describe NLU in a single word, Dra. Castro chose dynamic. "As a Student Success Coach, I have witnessed the constant changes and progress the institution has made to adjust to the ever-changing scope of higher education. Despite the many roadblocks that have been placed, NLU continues to push forward with innovative ideas to best serve our students."

The biggest obstacle in her educational journey was the dissertation. "The classwork was manageable because of the deadlines, but once I had to write my dissertation, things became more difficult. I lacked the discipline to set deadlines for myself, but my determination to succeed helped me get to the finish line." She adds that finishing meant something larger than her own achievement: "I knew that in finishing my degree, I would be helping others from similar backgrounds see that ¡Sí Se Puede!"

Representation shaped who she turned to for support along the way. "My most meaningful interactions with professors were those from similar backgrounds as mine. Being guided by those who completed their doctoral journey and had faced similar difficulties as me made it easier for me to go to them for help."

Learn More About NLU's Role as a Hispanic Serving Institution

Dra. Castro's message to students considering NLU is simple and direct: "You matter! NLU is lucky to have you because you bring so much knowledge and life experiences that help make our campus thrive. Take advantage of all services and do not be afraid to ask for help. Remember that your education is a journey and not a race. Although the journey is not easy, it is worth it. You got this! We are all rooting for you!"