MAS Class of 2026 Senior Spotlight: Alina Orozco

“High school went by very quickly, and I wish I had participated in more sports.” That reflection from Alina Orozco captures how fast these years can move, and how much growth can happen along the way. Alina enrolled at Mission Achievement and Success Charter School (MAS) in the fall of 2021 as an eighth grader, and she says her time at MAS helped shape the plans she is taking with her into the future.

One of the highlights of Alina’s high school experience was participating in the Naval Reserve Officers Training Corps (NROTC), a commissioned officer training program that includes drills and color guards, along with physical training. She says being part of the program helped her develop discipline and consistency while also building a stronger sense of responsibility.

When Alina thinks about what she liked best about attending MAS, she points to two everyday details that made a real difference. She appreciated staying in one classroom instead of moving around between classes. She also valued having a convenient place to park without extra cost.

Alina’s advice to incoming freshmen reflects what she learned about focus and follow-through. 

“I would advise incoming freshmen to stay focused on their schoolwork and avoid distractions, because falling behind can significantly impact their GPA and credits.” 

She also says staying clear about priorities matters because it supports the future students are working toward.

One of the most important life lessons Alina says she learned during high school is the importance of honesty and making wise choices. She believes those habits build trust and set a solid foundation for what comes next.

After high school, Alina plans to attend The University of New Mexico and major in business management. In the future, she plans to build a career as a real estate agent. Looking 10 years ahead, Alina plans to be established in her career and living in a state with plenty of snow. She also plans to own land and build a farm with animals. In that same vision, she included something personal and fun: her dream cars.

Outside of school, Alina loves camping, and during the winter she enjoys snowboarding with her dad.

“These activities help me relax, recharge, and also spend quality time with my father, which is very meaningful to me.” She also shared that her favorite restaurant is Texas Roadhouse, and her favorite item there is the bread served with a cinnamon spread.

Alina says she admires her dad because of the example he set through hard work and perseverance. 

“I admire my dad because he came to the United States with nothing yet worked hard to provide me with everything I needed. He teaches me the value of money and shows me that it’s important to work diligently for what I want.”

As Alina moves past high school, she has clear plans to make the most of the opportunities ahead. That mindset, along with the focus she has built, will continue to guide her as she steps into college and the life she has planned for herself.