Gradation Year: Class of 2010

Major: English and Spanish

Hometown: Raleigh, North Carolina (but originally from Mexico)

Activities at Peace College: Anthropology Club, Diversity Chairwoman in Executive Council of Student Government Association. As head of the Diversity Committee, Maria plans displays and effects in which she integrates every member of the Peace College community including faculty and staff.

Last summer, Maria attended a study program on the Galapagos Islands with other Peace College students and faculty and this summer she is going to Yucatán, Mexico with Dr. Laura Vick. Peace has offered her the opportunity to discover the world and look beyond cultural and geographical barriers. By experiencing more of the world, Maria has learned more about herself and who she is as a person.

Last semester, Maria received the NC Campus Compact Award for her outstanding civic engagement work. Through classes and community service projects introduced to her by Peace College, she was able to become more aware of the needs of her community and the ways in which she is able to help make a difference.

After graduation, Maria is planning to go to graduate school and receive a license to teach English as a Second Language and Spanish to high school students.

Maria states that ever since her arrival to Peace College she has felt at home.

"Walking into a classroom and knowing that there is going to be a faculty member who is going to challenge you and encourage you to succeed becomes the best reason to excel academically. Outside of class, there are many clubs and organizations that cover a wide variety of missions and interests. All our clubs and organizations are inclusive and there is always a place for everyone who wants to get involved. And between campus involvement and academics, there is always a smile from someone you encounter in the halls of Peace."