MAS Class of 2026 Senior Spotlight: Adrian Avila

Adrian Avila’s journey at Mission Achievement and Success (MAS) Charter School has been shaped by growth and new perspectives. Playing team sports like basketball and soccer became an important outlet during his years at MAS. Time on the court and on the pitch helped him clear his mind and stay motivated. Adrian enrolled at MAS in August 2018, starting in 5th grade, and he credits those years with shaping how he thinks and the way he approaches life.

Adrian played on the MAS basketball team for two years. Outside of school, he also enjoys playing soccer. Staying active gave him a healthy way to reset when life felt stressful, and it created time to connect with friends. He also saw sports as a reason to keep improving his athletic skills.

When asked what he liked best about attending MAS, Adrian pointed to the support he received from his teachers. He also shared how much his counselor from 6th through 8th grade, Mr. Jackson, helped him during an important stretch of his life. Adrian says he often found himself getting into trouble at the time, but Mr. Jackson always listened and guided him. He helped Adrian stay focused on his classes, avoid negative influences, and see situations from a better perspective. That support motivated Adrian to make better choices and move forward in a healthy direction.

Adrian’s advice to incoming freshmen is clear and personal. He says not to give in to peer pressure or let other people’s opinions bring you down. He believes positive, helpful advice is worth considering, but students should stay away from the wrong company or choices. Above all, he encourages younger students to stay focused on what is best for them.

Outside of school, Adrian enjoys spending time with his family, especially his younger brother. He says being around his brother makes him feel safe and comfortable. Adrian also loves nature and exploring new places, including spots like Santa Fe and Taos. Being outdoors helps him clear his mind, relax, and stay grounded.

One of the most important life lessons Adrian says he learned in high school is the value of being an independent thinker. “I’ve learned the value of being an independent thinker and making decisions for myself rather than being influenced by others,” Adrian said. He also shared that focusing on self-improvement matters, and that comparing yourself to others can hold you back. Adrian believes that with time and effort, he can continue to grow and improve.

After high school, Adrian plans to take a step-by-step path toward his career goals. He plans to earn his associate’s degree at Central New Mexico Community College and then transfer to The University of New Mexico, where he intends to major in architecture and complete his bachelor’s degree. Ten years from now, Adrian wants to be successful, which he describes as finishing his education and achieving financial stability. He also wants to be in a position to give back to his parents for their sacrifices. He hopes to enjoy his freedom by traveling, and later, he wants a family of his own.

Adrian says he admires his parents because of what they have sacrificed to help him become independent and live a better life than they had. He also credits them for guiding him to make good decisions so he can be proud of the life he creates.

When it comes to local restaurants, Adrian has more than one favorite. He loves Texas Roadhouse for its steaks and he says the loaded potatoes are amazing. At the same time however, his favorite place for a meal is his grandma’s house because, he says, “She cooks with so much love, and I always enjoy her food.”

The MAS community celebrates Adrian Avila for the growth he has shown over the years and the thoughtful plans he has set for what comes next.