by Anne Donofrio-Holter
3/17/11
South El Monte High School senior Julissa Castellanos, daughter of El Monte Union High School District employee Ray Castellanos, has signed a letter of intent with Simpson University to play softball next year.
"I have been playing softball for about 13 years now," said Castellanos. "I started with T-ball with the El Monte Fillies Little League and haven't stopped since."
For TeamSmith, Castellanos' travel ball team, she plays left/center outfield. For her high school team, her primary position is third base, but she is also a utility player.
While playing in a tournament, Simpson University recruiters noticed her performance. Castellanos spoke with the school's head coach and arranged for an official visit to the campus in Redding, California.
"I got to spend about a week with the team and had the opportunity to live the college life," she said. "Everything went smoothly and I made my decision to sign on January 29."
After graduation from Simpson, Castellanos would like to work as a social worker helping teens that live in foster homes.
"I want to be an inspiration to them and be an example that things are possible in life if you just believe in your capabilities," she said. "My goal with young teenagers will be to help them fulfill their dreams just as I have myself with my scholarship. I am very grateful to be given this opportunity to attend such a wonderful school as Simpson University."
She would eventually like to study family law and become a lawyer.
"We are very proud of Julissa and wish her the best in her future endeavors," said Nick Salerno, superintendent. "She is yet another example of the bright and talented students we have in our district."