As Beyoncé begins her 2009 VMA performance, freshman Dalia Castillo starts to pay more attention to the pop star on stage. Midway through Beyoncé’s “Single Ladies”, Castillo’s newfound love for Beyoncé begins.

“I was flipping through channels and a concert came on,” Castillo said. “I realized I was in love.”

Castillo has never obsessed over a celebrity, but in 2009 she discovered that a passion for one megastar would begin. For Castillo, every time Beyoncé is put on a stage, whether it be a huge concert or her VMA performance and accepting her Video Vanguard Award, she considers it necessary to watch.

“I cried when she performed in the VMA’s,” Castillo said. “I felt tears in my eyes from “Mine” to “XO”. I think it was better than when Justin Timberlake accepted the award.”

It’s been five years and Castillo uses Beyoncé’s music to help her get through rough times or to just dance to. She has pushed herself in the eyes of a feminist, believing that she should be able to achieve whatever she wants no matter what.

“Beyoncé is my motivation to do my homework,” Castillo said. “She keeps me thinking I’m flawless.”