Laredo College Student Stories: Paola Castro

Laredo College Student Stories: Regina Renteria

In this episode of Student Stories, Regina Renteria shares how her path changed from studying history to discovering a passion for dental care. After enrolling in Laredo College’s Dental Assistant program through Continuing Education, she found the right fit and went on to study dental hygiene. Regina credits Laredo College for helping shape her success.

Laredo College Student Stories: Paola Castro

Paola Castro, a student at Laredo College, began dancing at six years old in Nuevo Laredo, Mexico. She was accepted into the prestigious Joffrey Ballet School Summer Intensive and has now been invited to join its year-round training program this Fall, where she will pursue her bachelor’s degree. Paola chose to complete her associate degree at Laredo College and credits the college’s Dance faculty and Performing Arts & Communication Department for helping prepare her for this next chapter. Interested in a career in dance? Contact the Performing Arts & Communication Department at (956) 794-4403 or email Patricia J. Godines, Associate Professor of Dance, at patricia.godines@laredo.edu.

Laredo College Student Stories: Gabriel Guerra

Marine veteran Gabriel Guerra is graduating this semester with an Associate Degree in Electronic Technologies from Laredo College. After gaining leadership skills in the Marines, he’s continuing his education and plans to pursue a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration. Inspired by God and his hardworking parents, Gabriel stays grounded in faith and family. Outside the classroom, he enjoys playing the drums and guitar.

Laredo College Student Stories: Jack Keefer

Jack Keefer shares the journey that led him to Laredo and proves that it’s never too late to pursue an education. At 71, the U.S. Army veteran and first-generation student earned his Associate of Arts and delivered the Fall 2025 student address at Laredo College. Raised in Minnesota, Jack was stationed in Okinawa during his military service and later lived in Mexico, where he met his wife and taught English. He is now continuing his education, pursuing a Bachelor of Applied Science in Organizational Leadership.

Laredo College Student Stories: Marco Carrillo

Marco Carrillo is a Physical Therapist Assistant student at Laredo College. Born in Los Angeles and raised in Laredo since age 10, he grew up playing trumpet and always knew he wanted to help others. While earning his bachelor’s degree in kinesiology at TAMIU, he discovered his passion for rehabilitation, which led him to the PTA program and a future focused on helping people recover and regain their strength. #LaredoCollege #StudentStories #PalominoPride