Double-major senior Ashley Castro Rodriguez will be graduating in June with a BA in communication and theology. Earning two degrees, while being heavily involved in student life, is what she is most proud of during her time at PUC. “I invested a lot of my time, energy, and leadership into multiple departments and initiatives on campus,” shared Ashley. “Those experiences shaped me in a lot of ways, even when the outcomes weren’t always what I expected.”

Being a part of two different programs, she most appreciates the professors who have genuinely cared about her and her classmates who are always willing to work with them on a personal level, not just to help pass the class. 

From her time at PUC, she will miss working at The Grind and the everyday interactions that came with the job. “I love making silly little drinks and interacting with regulars!” she said. 

What made you decide to attend PUC?

Scholarships initially played a big role, but I also valued the opportunity to study both theology in a small, close-knit environment where I thought I could grow both academically and personally. 

Do you remember what stood out to you the most when you first arrived on campus?

How green and peaceful everything felt. It was a big contrast to where I grew up, and at the time, it felt like stepping into a space that was supposed to be grounding. 

Who has impacted you the most during your time at PUC?

My best friends and a few key mentors: the Wibberdings, Professor Hargrove, Dr. David, Dr. McGuire, Pastor Nate, Ms. Jennie, and my communication mentor, Kaleb Eisle. They’ve been the ones who supported me, challenged me, and stayed consistent through both the best and hardest parts of my college experience. 

What class have you taken that every student should take, regardless of their major?

Any communication class—especially interpersonal, organizational, or persuasive communication. Those are the kinds of skills you end up using in every area of life, whether people realize it or not. Dr. McGuire taught me many skills that I promised to use for good, not evil.

Aside from passing classes, what is something on your PUC bucket list you want to accomplish before graduating?

I feel like I’ve done a lot and then some during my time here, maybe even more than I expected to. If anything, I’d want one more intentional moment, like maybe a last trip to San Francisco or going camping with friends. 

If you could go back in time to one moment during your years at PUC, what would it be?

I don’t think I would go back. Even the difficult or disappointing moments taught me things I wouldn’t have learned otherwise; I found a bright side at every step of the way.

What is your favorite thing about being a part of the Pioneers community?

I’ve learned to focus on genuine people. Not every space felt welcoming, and not every experience reflected the kind of community we talk about, but the friendships that were real made a lasting impact. 

How would you describe your perfect weekend at PUC?

Sleeping in, doing homework at Sam’s, spending time with friends, and sometimes watching my home church’s livestream from Hillsboro on Sabbath mornings. It’s a way I stay connected to a space that feels consistent and grounding for me. 

What is your favorite café or restaurant in the Napa Valley?

A few of my favorites are Sam’s Social Club in St. Helena, Sweet Straw in Napa, and Teaspoon in Santa Rosa.

What does PUC mean to you?

PUC is a place where I grew, served, and gave a significant part of myself. I was deeply involved in student life and committed to the community, even in seasons where that investment wasn’t always recognized or sustained. At the same time, it pushed me to become more resilient, more self-aware, and more grounded in who I am and what I value.

After graduation, Ashley will be working with the Oregon Conference Hispanic Ministries as a pastor in Gresham, OR, while also supporting communication efforts at the conference.