MAS Class of 2026 Senior Spotlight: Itzel Bustillos

Faith and a commitment to personal growth have played an important role in Itzel Bustillos’ journey at Mission Achievement and Success Charter School. After enrolling as a 5th grader in the Fall of 2018, she built lasting relationships with classmates and teachers while preparing for the goals she hopes to pursue after graduation.

In this post, we tell you more about Itzel Bustillos, to what she credits her success, and her plans for 10 years in the future and beyond.

For Itzel, one of the most meaningful parts of attending MAS has been the friendships she’s made. Reflecting on those connections, she said, “The best part of attending MAS for me has been the relationships I’ve built with my peers and teachers.” She believes those relationships helped shape her experience and encouraged her to continue growing both socially and academically.

Volleyball was one of the activities that contributed to Itzel’s personal growth during high school. Being part of the team taught her teamwork and strengthened her communication skills. It also gave her opportunities to take on leadership duties and build close relationships with teammates, which she says improved her ability to collaborate and connect with others.

When asked what advice she would give to incoming freshmen, Itzel encourages them to focus on enjoying the experience while keeping their priorities in mind. As she explained, “High school is about making memories with friends and building positive relationships with teachers.” She also recommends asking for advice when you are unsure and taking advantage of the dual college credit courses MAS offers to high school students through its relationship with Central New Mexico Community College (CNM).

When she’s not in school, Itzel spends time on a range of interests that reflect both her values and sense of purpose. She enjoys going to church, cooking, hiking, and spending time with family and friends. She also practices martial arts and archery, and she actively takes part in training activities that prepare her to support people affected by domestic violence.

Reflecting on the lessons she learned during high school, Itzel says self-awareness and thoughtful decision-making have been especially important. As she explained, “I’ve learned the importance of being self-aware and thinking carefully before making important decisions.” She says that she now understands that every choice carries consequences, and she believes taking time to think things through increases the chances of making decisions for which she can be proud.

After graduating, Itzel plans to attend CNM for two years to pursue an associate degree in sociology. After that, she plans to transfer to The University of New Mexico, where she will major in psychology. Looking a decade ahead, Itzel sees herself having earned her bachelor’s degree and continuing on to a master’s degree. She also plans to have a family of her own, travel to different countries with her husband, own several successful businesses, and one day own a ranch.

Itzel says she admires her mother for both her intelligence and her example. Seeing her mother earn a bachelor’s degree inspires Itzel to follow in her footsteps and pursue her own dreams. She also admires her mother’s strength and independence, and she is grateful for the motivation her mother has given her to become the best version of herself.

When it comes to food, Itzel has a favorite local spot. She enjoys going to Grandma’s K & I Diner (2500 Broadway Blvd SE; ABQ), where she usually orders Al’s Iron Skillet and a hot coffee. The meal includes home potatoes with a mix of bacon, sausage, and ham, topped with chile, cheese, two eggs, and two strips of bacon. She describes it as her absolute favorite meal.

As she reflects on both her high school years and her future plans, Itzel says she feels grateful for the people who have supported her along the way. “I am beyond excited about God’s plan for my life, and ready to see what He has in store for me,” she said. She is also among the handful of members of the Class of 2026 who carry an “Always up, never down” code close to heart, a mindset that reflects the optimism and determination she brings to the future.