Zachary Castaneda

Blues Project Peer Educator 

California State University, Northridge 

• Served as a trained peer educator promoting awareness of depression, suicide prevention, and mental health resources across campus.
• Received extensive training in identifying warning signs, effective communication strategies, and referral processes to on-campus mental health services.
• Delivered presentations to classes, clubs, and organizations on recognizing symptoms of depression, understanding suicidal ideation, and seeking help.
• Participated in planning and facilitating Beat the Blues Week (fall) and Your Journey Matters (Spring), two major campus-wide outreach events focused on destigmatizing mental health and promoting healing and hope.
• Provided education, empathy, and peer support to students while encouraging help-seeking behaviors and reducing stigma around mental illness.

Educational Opportunity Program (EOP) Participant 

California State University, Northridge 

• Selected for a state-supported program designed to assist first-generation, low-income, and educationally undeserved students.
• Completed the EOP Transitional Program, an intensive summer experience focused on college readiness, academic skills, and community building prior to the first semester.
• Participated in workshops, mentorship, and advising to support academic success and personal development throughout college.

Phi Kappa Phi Honor Society - Member 

California State University, Northridge 

• Inducted into one of the nation's most selective multidisciplinary honor societies, recognizing the top 10% of seniors and 7.5% of juniors across all academic fields.
• Membership awarded based on exceptional academic achievement and commitment to integrity and service.
• Participated in chapter events at CSUN focused on academic achievement, leadership, and service.
• Collaborated with fellow members to promote scholarship and campus engagement initiatives.