MAS Class of 2026 Senior Spotlight: Gabriela Mendez

There are many things Gabriela Mendez picked up during her years at Mission Achievement and Success Charter School, and one of the most meaningful has been learning how confidence grows over time. Gabriela enrolled in the fall of 2019 as a 6th grader, and she says her high school journey helped her feel more prepared to take on challenges that once felt intimidating.

“I started high school feeling uncertain about how my journey would unfold, but over time, I made great friends who reminded me that things would eventually be okay and encouraged me to believe in myself.”

That encouragement helped Gabriela believe in her own abilities, and she says it changed the way she approaches difficult moments. She also says the Choose Love lessons, which are part of the school’s approach to social and emotional learning, helped her remember that even when she felt sad, things would eventually get better. Along with that, Gabriela appreciated teachers who supported her and reminded her that she could overcome challenges. 

She was also grateful for the opportunity to take college courses while still in high school, since those classes helped her develop time management skills and become more responsible.

Gabriela’s advice to incoming freshmen reflects her own experience with growth and persistence.

“I would advise incoming freshmen to make the most of every opportunity and to never give up on themselves. Even when things get challenging, they can push through and achieve their goals with persistence and determination.”

After high school, Gabriela plans to attend Central New Mexico Community College, where she will study to become a pharmacy technician and prepare for a career in healthcare. Looking 10 years ahead, she plans to work in a hospital as a pharmacy technician. She also plans to travel to different countries to learn about other cultures, own a home, and give back to her parents for the sacrifices they have made for her.

Although Gabriela did not participate in formal extracurricular activities, she has interests outside of school that helped her grow. She enjoys reading, cooking, and baking, and she also likes spending time with friends. She says these interests helped her develop creativity and patience, and they also helped her build meaningful connections with the people around her. Gabriela also shared that constructive feedback matters because it helps you improve and grow as a person.

Like many graduating seniors, Gabriela credits her parents with inspiring her to keep working toward her goals.

“I admire my parents because they never gave up on their dreams and continue to work hard to make them a reality. They have made many sacrifices for me so that I can also achieve my own goals.”

When she dines out, Gabriela’s favorite restaurant is Lindo Mexico Grill & Seafood (two locations in Albuquerque). She likes ordering the Plato La Playa, which includes shrimp and a fish fillet served with rice.

If you ask her, Gabriela will share that she is grateful for all of the experiences that helped her grow and prepare for what's next. With her plans taking shape and her confidence continuing to build, Gabriela Mendez leaves MAS ready for what comes next.