Writings by
Avery C. Castillo
Writer. Poet. Editor.

About
A Rio Grande Valley native, Avery was born and raised in Harlingen, Texas. She is passionate on giving back to her community through her writing, poetry, and connecting with individuals through creative art. She has plans to obtain an MFA in Creative Writing and eventually earn a PhD in English/Creative Writing. It is because of her love for poetry that she is able to find courage to share her own story and in turn inspire others to feel the same empowerment and strength by sharing lived experiences through storytelling.
A (short) About Me — My Why — What Fuels My Writing
My story can be found in my writings. However they may find you, I hope they light a spark within you to write your own story, because if there is one thing that motivates me the most it is that all my experiences have and will happen for a reason. I believe the same applies to those who have a calling to share their lived experiences with the world. Our stories matter. Share them. Write them. Create them.
I was diagnosed with Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis at age three. I would become accustomed to daily and weekly medication, doctor’s appointments far and wide, too many needle sticks to remember, and a running count of joint replacement surgeries. My family made sure I was secure, happy, and capable of experiencing anything I desired. At age 18, I had my first hip replacement surgery. Six months later, I had my second hip replacement surgery. At age 23, I had total bilateral TMJ replacement and reconstructive jaw surgery. I will eventually undergo another joint replacement surgery, but in the meantime, you can find me writing, reading, advocating, learning and seeking adventures however I can find them.
Education
2024-Current
Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing
University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
Studying Creative Writing with a specialization in Poetry. Serving as Poetry Editor for riverSedge: A Journal of Art and Literature.
2023
Bachelor of Arts in English
Texas Tech University
Obtained a BA in English and a minor in Women's and Gender Studies, graduating with highest honors and membership into Phi Beta Kappa Honor Society.
Experience
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Production Editor with FlowerSong Press, current
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Co-host of Essentially Poetic with FlowerSong Press, current
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Poetry Editor with riverSedge: A Journal of Art and Literature, current
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Editorial Intern with Texas Tech University Press, 2023
Special Accolades
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2025 We Need Diverse Books Mentorship, Picture Book mentee with Inda Ahmad Zahri
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Praisesong for the People, a special Texas Poet Laureate project curated by Amanda Johnston, contributing poet
For a list of recent publications, please visit my Writings page. ​
Contact
I'm always looking for new and exciting opportunities. Let's connect.