STC Dual Credit Graduate Secures Early Success in Information Technology

August 29, 2026 - 01:30

At just 20 years old, South Texas College alumna Jacqueline Castillo has built an impressive resume that most professionals twice her age would envy. She holds a college certificate, an associate degree, and several industry certifications, all earned before her 21st birthday. The foundation for this rapid rise was laid through the college's Dual Credit Programs, which allowed her to begin taking college courses while still in high school.

Castillo's path into Information Technology started almost by accident. She was looking for a way to challenge herself academically and discovered that dual credit offered a way to earn college hours without waiting for graduation. What began as a practical decision quickly turned into a genuine passion. She found that the hands-on coursework and the support from STC instructors gave her confidence to pursue a field she had not previously considered.

The early start paid off in more ways than one. By the time she finished high school, Castillo had already completed a significant portion of her college requirements. She went on to earn her associate degree and then stacked multiple industry certifications on top of that, including credentials that are recognized by major tech employers. Those certifications, combined with her degree, made her a strong candidate for entry-level IT positions.

Castillo is now working in the field, applying the skills she learned in the classroom to real-world technical problems. She credits the dual credit program for giving her a head start that saved both time and money. She also points to the mentorship she received from her professors, who pushed her to aim higher than she originally planned.

Her advice to current students is simple: do not wait. She encourages anyone with an interest in technology to explore dual credit options early, because the momentum gained in those first classes can carry you much further than you expect. For Castillo, the decision to start early turned into a career that is already off to a strong start.