Raymond CastillejaEIF Higher Education Advisor


Raymond Castilleja was part of the 9-to-5 crowd, a suit-and-tie guy working behind a desk in the corporate world when he had a revelation. He wanted to make a difference, not just a paycheck. A friend told him about social work and he never looked back. It took courage for Raymond to walk away from the business world, but he knew the only barrier to success was himself, and this is exactly what he brings to the table for his students.

Where did you go to college?
I obtained an Associate’s Degree in Science from Richland College. I then transferred to the University of Texas at Dallas where I graduated with my Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration. I am currently working on my Master’s degree in Social Work at the University of Texas at Arlington.

What was the worst/funniest job you ever had?
The worst job I ever had was a telemarketing job where I was constantly yelled at over the phone. I lasted one day.

What’s the best advice someone has given you?
Your struggles define who you are. It is only at your darkest hour that you find true character.

What’s the biggest benefit you see kids get out of EIF?
Hope. We encourage them to dream big and strive for an educated life filled with opportunity.