Student Spotlight: Crystal Castaneda

For Los Angeles City College student, Crystal Castaneda, music has always been more than a passion. It has been a lifelong calling, one she continues to pursue while balancing school, work and responsibilities at home.

Raised in Los Angeles by her Salvadorian immigrant mother and grandmother, Crystal is the first in her immediate family to attend college. Growing up in poverty, she saw firsthand the financial challenges her family faced, particularly when it came to supporting her musical interests and education.

Although she once considered becoming an immigration attorney, her lifelong love of music ultimately led her to LACC. Having taken piano lessons at the College as a child, returning to study music felt like coming home. She has found a welcoming community at The Herb Alpert Music Center, along with, the resources to grow as a musician.

“Honestly, it’s just a second home,” she said. “I come here to learn, to grow, but also just to decompress and focus on what I love to do.”

Outside of class, Crystal works part time at Starbucks, helping support her family while pursuing a demanding full-time music program. Balancing work, school and family responsibilities has not been easy.

“Mentally, emotionally and physically, it’s been a lot on me,” she shared. “It’s been really, really hard. But nevertheless, I have come out on top, and God has helped me get through all of it.”

Scholarships from the LACC Foundation and the Herb Alpert Music Center have made a significant difference, helping cover her tuition, private lessons and academic expenses.

“Without that being covered for me, I would not be able to pursue my love for music and the education that I want to receive,” Crystal said.

That support also helped make a three-week music study-abroad program in Spain possible. While there, Crystal attended jazz and flamenco performances, explored different musical traditions and gained a broader perspective as a musician.

“It honestly changed my life forever,” she said of the experience. “It would not have been able to happen without the LACC Foundation and the Herb Alpert scholarships that I received.”

Crystal’s journey reflects the lasting impact of donor generosity. Through scholarships and educational opportunities, supporters help students overcome financial barriers, pursue their passions and build brighter futures.