Seeing the Future: Christine Castillo Castanon’s Path to Optometry and Giving Back

Christine Castillo Castanon, an alumnus of Moreno Valley College’s TRIO Upward Bound Math and Science Program, is on the verge of earning her doctorate in optometry—an achievement rooted in her early academic journey at MVC. From 2013 to 2016, Castanon participated in the TRIO program through a partnership between MVC and Vista del Lago High School, one of MVC’s feeder high schools, where she cultivated her passion for healthcare and commitment to serving local communities.

Her journey began in high school as a TRIO scholar, where the program provided vital support in leadership development, college tours, and navigating the college application process. Castillo Castanon graduated as salutatorian and went on to earn a Bachelor of Science in Psychobiology from UCLA, where she discovered her passion for optometry and its essential role in community health.

After completing her undergraduate degree, Castillo Castanon applied to the Southern California College of Optometry at Marshall B. Ketchum University and is set to graduate with her doctorate in May 2025. Christine’s experiences fueled her passion for giving back to the community that shaped her.

Castillo Castanon credits TRIO for believing in her potential and providing the mentorship and resources needed to overcome obstacles. Raised in a single-parent household, she faced challenges pursuing a career in medicine, a field often dominated by students from more affluent backgrounds. With TRIO’s support, she transformed her background into a source of strength and perseverance, paving the way for her success.

Throughout her time in TRIO, Castillo Castanon worked closely with leaders like Micki Grayson, director of TRIO programs at Moreno Valley College, and Angel Orta-Perez, assistant director for Upward Bound Math and Science. Their guidance helped her navigate the challenges of higher education and strengthened her belief in her ability to make an impact in healthcare.

Castillo Castanon's connection to her roots led her to return to her community through events like National TRIO Day. She recalls participating in a vision screening event as both a professional and personal milestone. “Moreno Valley is home,” Castanon said. “I always dreamed of becoming a doctor and bringing the necessary resources back to my community. This event was a dream come true.”

As she prepares to graduate and begin her career as an optometrist, Castillo Castanon stresses the importance of early vision exams for children. “Vision can affect how a child learns and engages with the world,” she said. Many children may not speak up about vision problems because they do not know what normal vision looks like. Castillo Castanon also emphasized that pediatric exams are not comprehensive eye exams, and regular eye exams are crucial.

Reflecting on the vision screenings she offered MVC community members, Castillo Castanon said it reinforced her commitment to making vision care more accessible. “Sight is truly a gift,” she said. “Providing free services can be life-changing. A simple pair of glasses can help someone pass a DMV test, attend doctor’s appointments, or perform better in school. Moments like these remind me why I chose this path.”

Castillo Castanon's advice to current TRIO students is clear: "Do it! Be the mentor you had. You are fortunate to have the resources TRIO provides, and it’s important that we continue to create more opportunities for the next generation."

Grayson shared, “Christine’s journey inspires us all. We are so proud that TRIO was part of her success and are excited to see Christine make a lasting impact in her community and beyond.”