MAS Class of 2026 Senior Spotlight: Marisa Garcia

For Marisa Garcia, high school reinforced a lesson that continues to shape the future she plans to build: the effort you put in matters. After enrolling at Mission Achievement and Success Charter School in August 2018 as a 5th grader, she spent the years that followed learning to speak up for herself and envisioning a career in sports-related healthcare.

Like many high schoolers, Marisa found balance outside of school through the things she enjoys most. She likes spending time with family and friends, listening to different genres of music, playing video games, and shopping. She says these activities help her relax and stay grounded while managing her responsibilities.

When she reflects on what she liked best about attending MAS, Marisa points to the opportunities that helped her get ahead academically. 

“What I liked best about attending MAS was the opportunity to take CNM classes and the guidance provided by the College and Career Readiness Counselors.” 

She also appreciated MAS’s dual college credit opportunities, which allow students to earn college credits while still in high school. Marisa said the early release option gave her more time to focus on college coursework, and she valued the support of teachers who guided students along the way and made learning easier to understand.

Her advice to incoming freshmen is thoughtful and direct. 

“I would advise incoming freshmen to stay focused on their personal goals, avoid distractions, and be selective about their friends, since the people you spend time with can strongly influence your choices and the direction of your life."

One of the most important life lessons Marisa says she learned in high school is that effort shapes results. She also learned the importance of speaking up for herself, asking for help when needed, and taking the necessary steps to move forward. Those lessons helped her stay focused on what matters and continue building toward her goals.

After high school, Marisa plans to attend The University of New Mexico, where she will major in nursing. Her long-term goal is to become a medical professional, and in the years ahead she plans to work as a sports medicine nurse with the National Football League (NFL). In ten years, Marisa plans to be living in Colorado or Pennsylvania while building financial stability so she can support herself and help her family when needed.

Marisa says she admires her mom because of the way she works tirelessly to provide for her family. She especially respects her mother’s selflessness and the way she goes above and beyond to help both her children and others.

When it comes to food, Marisa has a favorite order she enjoys every time. Her go-to restaurant is Red Robin, where she likes to order from The Big Yummm menu.

Marisa also shared that her faith continues to guide the way she looks at the future. “I believe that God has a plan for everyone’s life and will guide us to where we need to be.” That sense of trust, along with the work she has already put into her goals, will continue to guide her as she takes the next step forward.