Spring Branch ISD Featured News

 

Aylin Castaneda-Galvan didn’t always see herself as a leader. In fact, when she entered Spring Woods High School (SWHS) as a freshman, she was shy and focused only on academics.

But four years later, she walks across the graduation stage as someone who has built a community, discovered her passion, and inspired those around her with resilience, heart and purpose.

“My high school experience has been full of joyful and stressful memories — and I wouldn’t change a thing,” Aylin said. “From all the ups and downs, I’ve grown into someone the younger me wouldn’t have imagined.”

One of the first turning points in her journey was joining the soccer team. Stepping out of her comfort zone led to friendships, teamwork and a new mindset.

“That group of girls helped me open my eyes to trying new things,” she said. “Now I’m more adventurous and always excited to take on new challenges.”

Pushing Past Struggles

Aylin’s high school journey wasn’t without its challenges — particularly when it came to math.

“It’s always been my weakest subject,” she admitted. “But I learned the importance of asking for help. I’d go to my teacher’s class before school, during lunch, after school — whatever it took to understand the material.”

By seeking support from teachers and friends, Aylin didn’t just improve academically. She gained confidence in her ability to advocate for herself and find solutions.

Inspired by Educators

Throughout her four years, Aylin found powerful mentors in her teachers and coaches. One of the first to make a lasting impression was her freshman year geometry teacher, Ms. Vancura.

“I was frustrated because I kept trying but wasn’t seeing results,” Aylin said. “But Ms. Vancura believed in me and kept encouraging me. Her support helped me push through and start seeing real progress.”

Senior year brought another key influence: her macroeconomics teacher, Ms. Campbell.

“She was there for all of us seniors,” Aylin said. “Even when she didn’t feel her best, she kept showing up, encouraging us and checking in. Her positivity made a huge impact on me during a tough semester.”

When Aylin was deciding between nursing and athletic training as a career path, it was her athletic training coach, Ms. Harrell, who helped her find clarity.

“She talked through it with me and helped me see what I truly enjoyed,” Aylin said. “That guidance made all the difference.”

A Career With Heart

After graduation, Aylin plans to pursue a career in athletic training — a field that allows her to combine her love for sports and medicine.

“Being a student athletic trainer at Spring Woods opened my eyes to a career I didn’t even know existed,” she said. “I got to help athletes through their healing journey and watch them return to the field. It felt perfect.”

In five to 10 years, she hopes to be working with an NFL team, traveling with players, supporting rehab efforts and inspiring others to consider sports medicine. But her goals go beyond career milestones — she’s driven by family and a desire to give back.

“I want to provide for my family, take them on vacations and make sure my parents don’t have to worry about finances,” she said. “Coming from a low-income background, I want to show what’s possible through hard work.”

Traits That Shape Her Legacy

High school helped Aylin build important life skills: time management, communication, flexibility and accountability. These came into sharp focus during her senior year, when the entire athletic training staff left — and Aylin, the most experienced student trainer, stepped up to lead.

“We had to train the new student trainers and figure out a new system,” she said. “Being flexible was key. Things don’t always go as planned, but that’s when you grow.”

Aylin also sharpened her perseverance — in academics, cross country and countless early morning and late-night practices and games.

“No matter how tired I was, I always showed up,” she said. “That’s what perseverance looks like — just showing up and giving it your all.”

Advice and Gratitude

To incoming freshmen, Aylin offers this advice: “Try new things. Join a club. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. It’s a strength, not a weakness. And keep pushing — the results are worth it.”

If she could do anything differently, she says she would have learned earlier that life isn’t all about school. “Balance matters. You can work hard and still enjoy high school.”

As she prepares to graduate, Aylin is filled with gratitude.

“I appreciate and love all of my family, teachers and friends who helped me get to where I am,” she said. “I couldn’t have grown into who I am today without them.”

Looking to the Future

High school taught Aylin how to handle challenges while building memories that will last a lifetime.

“It’s shown me how life can be difficult and fun at the same time,” she said. “Now I’m excited to see what life has in store.”

If she had to sum up her high school experience in one word?

“A roller coaster,” she said with a smile. “There were ups, downs and loops — from field trips and finals to prom and homecoming. So many emotions, just like a ride.”

And what does she hope her legacy will be?

“I hope people remember me as kind, sweet, fun and spiritual,” she said. “Someone who gave it their all and helped others along the way.”

#SBISDProud